Quickly Create a Carefree Patio this Summer

The patio is an extension of the home. It’s a place to relax with a couple of cold drinks or to welcome starry nights.

It may feel like there’s never enough time to build the ultimate backyard hangout, but it’s a remarkably attainable goal.

Steve Olson, manager of Viking Ski and Patio in Barrington, has a couple of suggestions

Top of list is deep seating – basically, anything that has a padded seat. Though people may worry about its ability to endure nature’s harsh conditions, Olson says materials have come a long way.

“They now make rain fabrics and cushionless deep seating furniture,” he says. “But most people just purchase covers for a small price, and they’re highly water-resistant and breathable – an easy fix for those who want the comfy sofa and lounge chairs without the hassle of waiting for a cushion to dry after a heavy rain.”

Finding the right furniture material is also important. Viking Ski and Patio offers furniture made from durable “envirowood,” a durable material often made from recycled milk jugs. Such pieces need little maintenance, won’t rust or rot, and can be left outside year-round.

Furniture pieces constructed from woven materials, like traditional wicker, now feature ultraviolet protection that offers some guard against the weather.

While you’re planning the ultimate patio, don’t forget a cantilever umbrella, which can rotate to different angles while offering maximum shade. Easy-to-use gas fire pits are a great alternative for patio areas, where cushions and fabrics are prone to damage from sparks jumping off wood fires.

Purchase patio furniture from a knowledgeable company and you’ll cut out a lot of the guesswork and future headaches.

“We have you covered, day or night, with the latest trends,” says Olson. “We deliver our furniture assembled and placed exactly where our customers would like. We also do repairs for our customers on furniture and umbrellas, and we re-sling and do custom orders for most collections.” ❚

Viking Ski and Patio is located at 131 W. Northwest Hwy., in Barrington, (847) 381-1188.