Springtime is almost here, and it’s time to clear the dust off the patio and fire up the grill. Some folks may be fortunate enough to live in a climate where year-round outdoor enjoyment is an option. For those of us who may have developed cabin fever over the winter,  it’s time to get excited about the prospect of sun, springtime, and fresh air.

Tips to help you “spring” into action:

1. Start Now! This sounds simple, but while it’s still chilly out you may not have outdoor living on your mind. Now is the time to think about new furniture, grilling equipment and landscaping. Create an account and start thinking about ideas for new renovations.

2. Take an Inventory and prepare for your dream outdoor space. Consider the items you currently have available in your garage or storage space or that may already be set up outdoors. Do they need to be replaced, updated or repaired?  Think of what your outdoor space looks like now and think of the areas where you would like to expand, remodel or add décor. Consider each aspect of your ideal outdoor space: Outdoor structures (Pergolas, Shade, Gazebos), Grills (Gas, Electric, Charcoal, Pellet), Outdoor Kitchens and Outdoor Entertainment areas (outdoor TVs, sinks, side burners, kegerators, spas, etc), Outdoor Lighting and Heating (solar lights and infrared heating options), Campfires and Fire Pits, Fireplaces (Gas and Gel Fueled), Outdoor Furniture, and Landscaping (plants, water features, pathways, etc).

Also, think of the activities or reasons for using the space. Maybe you want it for grilling with friends and hosting outdoor parties and entertaining.  Maybe you just want a tranquil retreat, a personal sanctuary, or a place to relax with family.

3.  Prep Work. One you know your budget, space, and materials, create a shopping list.  Include any foundation work such as laying pavement, staining, landscaping, gas lines, or installation that may need to be done. Be sure to check on the layout of the land – some items that require installation may need a flat area.

4.  DIY (Do It Yourself).  Everyone wants to save a buck, and you may find you’re capable of some set up work on your own. This means fewer payments to contractors – leaving you more money in your pocket.  Consider  Finishing custom projects (example: purchasing an unfinished island or campfire and using your own time to finish it).

5.  Save time. Find local talent to help with assembly and setup.  Contact local contractors to see what they have for  options.  This may take a bit of time to set up, but will save you the time and effort in the long run. You can find local dealers and resources in your area at www.outdoorrooms.com/where-to-buy.

6. Don’t Limit Yourself. Think big in your planning and begin with the essentials.  You can always pull back on spending or the amount of time you want to spend creating your perfect customized space. It’s helpful to have a structured plan, because if you don’t know where you’re going – then you’re probably already there.

For more resources or tips or ideas from outdoor design experts contact The Outdoor Greatroom Company at 866.303.4028, www.outdoorrooms.com, sales@outdoorrooms.com.

San Juan fire pit table

Rick Norlund, Product Engineer, for the Outdoor Greatroom Company, explains how the recent testing of their Venturi Flame Fire Pit Tables was done.

Venturi Flame - Fire Pit Table

Each product goes through this battery of testing and has to pass them all to receive a prestigious UL listing.

1. The Rain Test
Simulates a hard rain storm for a 15 minute period followed by a light rain immediately after.

2. The Shatter Test
Using a 1.18 lb steel ball: we swing the ball at a certain distance to find the breaking point on our glass cylinders.

3. The Indoor Emissions Test
Burn the unit in a 1000 cubic ft air-tight room and test for acceptible co, co2, levels.

4. The Crush Test
We set 150 lbs of weight on top of the unit  to test structural integrity and strength of materials.

5. The Pull Force Test
We used 150 lbs of force to pry the unit from a hanging surface.

6. The Wind Test
Use a 31 mph wind machine to evaluate whether the unit will stay lit in a windy situation.  We also use a 10 mph wind simulator to ignite the unit

All of these tests combined, revealed the quality of the product and whether it could receive the UL Listing.

Look for a UL listing on superior manufactured products.

Fire pit tables are a great way to add ambiance to your outdoor room. The Outdoor Greatroom Company uses innovative technologies such as Venturi Flame and Crystal Fire technologies to take a glowing fire to a whole new level. These fires run on gas fuel and each create their own unique beautiful fire. A fire pit table is a must for any outdoor living space.

Venturi Flame Technology creates a beautiful swirling, mesmerizing fire.

I started by digging up a 16’ square section of my backyard running alongside my fence then I installed a patio as the footprint. Knowing that I want to add an outdoor fireplace in the future, I had a gas company run the gas line for that and also to the outdoor kitchen I currently have; this preplanning stage is very important for any outdoor room.

Sierra Pergola

I have a craftsman style home and decided the Sierra Pergola from the Outdoor Greatroom Company would be a perfect fit. I was sold on their products years ago after purchasing one of their cook number grills. So with the framework set I installed my outdoor kitchen, pergola and some great wicker furniture.

My outdoor room is complete for now and I have several months to enjoy before the snow falls. Cheers!

Paul Nigon, Minneapolis

“Each room was designed using complimentary materials; color and style of paving, retaining wall, furniture, pergolas, and plant material were all coordinated to achieve the final effect. For instance, the Valder’s room showcases a cool Mediterranean look with light colored stone and billowy grasses accented by dark purple & green specimen plants, and comfortable patterned furniture. It’s a must see…..Which one is your favorite?”

Colleen Moran
Landscape Design Director
Gertens

See the Tuscany and Sonoma Pergolas as featured at Gertens Garden Center.

Tuscany Outdoor Pergola

1. Make sure the propane on my cook number grill is ready and full – the bonus part of this is that my cook number grill is a convection grill and uses half the gas of my neighbors grill so I rarely have to worry about running out mid-party
2. Clean up my grill. I like it to look it’s best to impress family and friends.
3. Clean off my outdoor furniture. With a simple hose, my Kate’s Collection wicker furniture is clean and dries quickly
4. Put propane in my French Colonial Lanterns. With the flip of a switch these add ambiance to the party
5. Fire up the fire pit. My Crystal Fire fire pit is a great place for everyone to gather.
6. Put the Beer, Soda and Water on Ice! Nothing goes better with a spicy bratwurst than a Surly Furious, brewed here in Minnesota.
7. And most importantly, Enjoy the backyard life!

San Juan Outdoor Kitchen