Fall outdoor living in Connecticut does not have to end when the air turns crisp. With overhead cover from a retractable awning or patio cover, a source of heat and better lighting, your patio or deck can stay comfortable well into the cooler months.
Many homeowners retreat indoors sooner than they would like. The ideas below help you get more weeks out of a space you already have.
Why Cover Matters for Fall Outdoor Living
Your patio, deck or backyard is part of your home, not just a summer space. What limits its use in autumn is mostly unpredictable weather, cooler temperatures and early sunsets. Overhead cover solves the first problem and helps with the second.
Protection from rain and falling leaves
A covered patio keeps furniture and flooring drier, so a passing shower does not end the evening or leave you with wet cushions the next day. It also keeps some of the leaves off your seating area.
Warmth that stays put
Paired with a patio heater, a cover helps hold warmth around your seating area instead of letting it all rise away. That makes a real difference on a chilly night.
Sun protection on bright days
The sun sits lower in the sky in fall and can shine straight into a seating area. UV rays still fade furniture and flooring in cooler weather, so shade remains useful after summer ends.
Retractable Awning or Patio Cover?
Retractable awnings for decks and patios give you flexible shade and light rain protection that you can adjust with the season or the time of day. Extend the awning when the low sun is in your eyes, and roll it back to let the warmth in on a cool afternoon. A retractable awning should be closed in strong wind and before snow.
Stationary aluminum and fabric patio covers are sturdy, long-term structures designed to handle New England weather. If you want a space that stays covered through fall rain and into winter, a patio cover is the better fit.
Either one can be custom designed to complement your home’s architecture, so it adds to curb appeal as well as comfort.
More Ways to Enjoy Your Patio in Fall
Add a fire pit or outdoor fireplace
A fire pit is a simple way to provide heat for family and guests, and it becomes a natural gathering spot. Set out seating around it and keep a few warm blankets nearby. Do not forget the marshmallows for s’mores.
If you prefer a larger heat source and a bolder look, an outdoor fireplace lets you arrange couches and chairs around it like an outdoor living room. Keep any open flame well away from awning fabric and other overhead cover, and follow the manufacturer’s clearance guidelines.
Upgrade the lighting
It gets dark earlier in fall, but shorter days do not have to send you inside right after dinner. You can install lights on the exterior walls of your house near the patio, hang strings of lights, and line a walkway with lights so guests can move around safely.
Bring out the games
Once the pool is closed for the season, yard games keep people outside. Giant versions of classic stacking and domino games are easy to find in stores, and there are plenty of do-it-yourself ideas online. It is also football season, so keep a ball handy to toss around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a retractable awning in the fall?
Yes. It works well for shade and light rain on fall days. Retract it in strong wind and before any snow or ice.
What is the difference between a patio cover and a retractable awning?
A patio cover is a fixed structure that stays in place all year. A retractable awning extends and retracts, so you choose when you want cover and when you want open sky.
Get Your Patio Ready for the Season
Aladdin Inc. installs retractable awnings and patio covers for homeowners in Hamden, Guilford, Branford, North Haven, Milford and across Connecticut. To find out which option suits your space, call (203) 776-9996 or contact Aladdin about your patio.