North Carolina, oh North Carolina! You’re supposed to be a land of sweet tea sippin’ on breezy porches, not a state where stepping outside feels like opening the oven door. But here we are, mid-June and already sweating through our clothes. And for those of us with that charming open patio or deck, well, let’s just say it’s not quite the outdoor oasis we envisioned.
Is a voice in your head whispering, “Maybe I should have enclosed that patio?” Yeah, we’ve all been there. Those beautiful summer days we dream about quickly turn into scorching infernos that chase us back indoors. But fear not! Before you resign yourself to another summer dodging the heat, let’s explore the bright side and some cool ideas.
- Silver Linings Dept.: Open patios do have their perks! Sunsets anyone? Plus, on those rare not-so-scorching evenings, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a meal under the stars.
- Beat the Summer Heat (Without Walls): Think shade sails, strategically placed umbrellas, and misters! These can create cool, refreshing pockets on your patio, making it a more inviting space.
- Embrace the Night: String lights, lanterns, and citronella candles can transform your patio into a magical evening escape.
Still Feeling the SUMmer Heat?
Okay, maybe those open-air solutions aren’t cutting it. If you’re truly wishing for a nearly year-round usable space, enclosing your patio might be the answer. Here are some options:
- Screened Porch: This offers bug protection and shade while maintaining an open-air feel. Perfect for those who still want to enjoy the Carolina breezes.
- Sunroom Addition: Transform your patio into a sun-drenched haven with a fully enclosed space. You can still enjoy the breezes!
- Retractable Screen Walls: These offer the best of both worlds: open your patio up on cooler days and close it in when the heat strikes.
The Takeaway
A scorching summer can definitely make you rethink your outdoor space. There’s still time to screen it or make a sunroom out of the area for more enjoyment. After all, summer in North Carolina shouldn’t be spent hiding indoors!
