• Warm Up Your Outdoor Space: Exploring Patio Heating Options

    Enjoying Outdoor Space Year-Round

    Colder weather doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy your outdoor spaces. Finding the right heating source for your patio or yard can help you enjoy time outside year-round. With the wide range of outdoor heating sources available, it can be difficult to determine what will work best for your space. Whether your space is big or small, this will help you find the perfect solution to keeping the cold weather from putting a damper on your outdoor fun.

    Types of Patio Heating Options

    The first step in determining what type of heater you need is to know what choices are available. Options can vary greatly in size, cost, heating power, and aesthetic.

    Outdoor Fireplaces

    Most likely the most eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing option is an outdoor fireplace or permanent fire pit. Not only can these be used as a way to improve the look of your outdoor space, they create a cozy living room like atmosphere that can’t be replicated with other heating options. In addition, they can help give a sense of permanence to your space, and won’t require you to store them elsewhere during the warmer months.

    No matter if you build it yourself or have one built for you, they can be made with a variety of materials, such as metal, stone, brick, or concrete, which can be further customized with a variety of colors and stamps. You can also choose to fuel it with wood or gas.

    Portable Fire Pits

    A great option if you are looking to move your heating source around or take it places away from your house are portable fire pits. Due to their low cost and easy portability, these have become a popular option. Many of these use fire, but there has been an increase in gas options. While portable fire pits may not be as aesthetically appealing as their permanent cousins, their look can be easily improved with a concrete edge liner or form liner.

    Propane Patio Heaters

    A common choice for restaurants or commercial areas, propane patio heaters can be used during the colder seasons and stored once the weather warms up. Possibly the most convenient of the heating options, they can be easily moved around to fit your space, but they are often less weatherproof and aesthetically appealing than the alternatives. Since these use propane, you will need to make sure you have a refill on hand for when they run out. They also may not last as long as the previous options on this list.

    Electric Heaters

    If you are looking to heat a small space or don’t like the idea of flames, electric heat lamps may be the best option. Like propane patio heaters, these can be easily ported around your space and stored when not needed. However, if you are wanting to provide enough heat for more than a person or two, you may find that these lack the required heating power. Like propane patio heaters, they aren’t very weatherproof and likely won’t last as long as fire pits and fireplaces.

    Choosing the Right Option for Your Space

    When considering what heating source is right for your space, there are a few things to consider. First being what kind of fuel you want to use. If you don’t like the idea of flames, then you will want to go with an electric option, but otherwise you can decide between gas or wood. Fire pits and fireplaces can be fueled with either option, and if you want a permanent installation you can even elect to use natural gas instead of propane if your residence is equipped to do so.

    The next thing to consider is the size of your space. Other than electric, any option should be capable of heating a large space, but the size and power of the heating source will dictate how far away someone can be and still feel comfortable. Before selecting a heating source it’s important to take measurements of your space and read any specifications on a heating source to make sure your whole space will be heated.

    Get started today

    As the weather continues to get colder, now is the time to begin heating your outdoor space. No matter what solution you choose, we are here to help with a variety of products that can transform your space or make your new fireplace or fire pit one-of-a-kind.

    Want some inspiration before you begin your search? Check out our Pinterest board for ideas on how to make your space a haven during the cold months.

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  • 5 Inspiring Ways to Transform Your Backyard with Stamped Concrete

    Looking to renovate your backyard and give it a fresh new look? Consider the incredible transformative powers of decorative concrete. As we’ve seen time and time again, concrete is no longer a cold, gray material suitable for nothing more than roads. Concrete is highly customizable, capable of providing nearly limitless looks and styles. Read on for our top tips for transforming backyards with versatile, beautiful concrete!

    Add a concrete patio

    A concrete patio is often the foundation for a fantastic new backyard. From serving as a gathering space, a dining area, or a place to read, a patio is functional and beautiful, thanks to stamped concrete’s limitless customization options. Concrete is the perfect material for a patio since it can be stamped to look like nearly any natural material, such as wood, brick, tile, and stone. With tinting options, concrete can look beautifully realistic to match the stamp used or you can up the ante and use bright, bold colors.

    Create a backyard fire pit

    Fire pits are a perpetually popular backyard feature. Whether warm summer evenings or cold winter nights, fire pits are a great way to get the family outside and away from screens or to catch up with friends over a drink. Proline form and edge liners are an easy way to craft a durable, attractive fire pit.

    Install a kitchen area

    If you’re a big griller, then consider upgrading your grill area by installing an outdoor kitchen. Adding concrete countertops makes food prep a breeze and you’ll love the customization options, from integrated lighting and cutting boards to polishes, embedded accents, and stains. Thanks to concrete stamps, a counter can mimic most natural materials and complement any style of patio and home. Additions like a mini fridge, wine cabinet, flat top griddle, trash bins, and cupboards are a fantastic way to keep entertaining streamlined and enjoyable. Consider covering part of the kitchen so diners can be protected from the elements and ample lighting options for evening parties.

    Incorporate a water feature

    The sound of moving water is so relaxing. It’s the perfect addition to help turn your yard into your own private oasis. Proline’s elegant Ledger Stone Wall Fountain Mold is one turnkey option, while a variety of form and edge liners let you design your own creation. Enjoy your morning coffee with the peaceful sound of water.

    Build a garden path

    Nothing is as enchanting as a garden path! Bring whimsy and magic to your yard by building a path that meanders through your yard. Have a small yard? No worries! Even a short path leading from a patio to a raised bed can be useful and adorable. Decorative concrete walkways can seamlessly coordinate with the look and feel of your patio, whether modern, rustic, or minimalist. Add accents and edging to create an intentional piece that elevates the space.

    Why concrete?

    Concrete is functional yet aesthetically pleasing, a combination that isn’t often seen. Don’t settle for a material that either won’t meet your needs or doesn’t have the look you’re going for. Concrete can do both!

    Functional advantages:

    Concrete is obviously strong. It’s used to make roads, after all! Concrete is also very durable. It can withstand above average wear-and-tear, and when properly maintained, can last over 30 years. While concrete does need to be sealed periodically, it requires little else in the way of maintenance. Simple sweeping and cleaning when it gets dirty is generally enough to keep it looking great.

    Decorative advantages:

    Concrete has the ability to look as elaborate as one wishes. Stamp options, which include brick, wood planks, stone, slate, and more, mean that practically any design needs can be met. Color is another major advantage of concrete. Products like acid stain, color hardener, antiquing washing, and acrylic stain provide endless color options.

    Small touches can make a big impact. Border art and decorative accents create a cohesive look while animal and plant stamps can provide a personalized touch. Statement pieces like a compass rose stamp or a gorgeous medallion create show-stopping spaces.

    Tip: Don’t forget the edging. When designing your new backyard, don’t forget to incorporate edging to define spaces and keep grass from spreading. Concrete edging, which is durable and easy to clean, provides a clean look.

    Get started today

    Contact Calico today at 800-221-9469 to get all the tools and advance you need to get started on your backyard projects. Our concrete experts love to talk through any problems or questions you have. If you’re ready to get shopping, browse our selection of concrete stamps, form and edge liners, colors, and sealers.

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  • Concrete is the Perfect Material to Create a Stunning Outdoor Kitchen

    When you’re creating an outdoor kitchen, there’s a lot to contend with — high cooking temperatures, weather considerations, design options, and much more. Luckily, there’s one material that checks all the boxes: concrete! Read on to learn why concrete is a fantastic option for show-stopping outdoor kitchens.

    Why should you install an outdoor kitchen?

    In recent years, the concept of creating outdoor living areas has exploded in popularity. So much more than a simple porch, homeowners are increasingly looking to use their outdoor spaces for year-round entertaining, cooking, and simple enjoyment. This is where an outdoor kitchen comes into play, as it’s often seen as a focal point for the entire home. It can be used for casual cook-outs, fancy parties, neighborhood entertaining, and, of course, easy family meals.

    Concrete outdoor kitchens are modern, durable, and customizable

    Concrete is the best material to use in an outdoor kitchen, thanks to its impressive qualities. Outdoor kitchens need to hold up to high cooking temperatures, sun, snow, and more. Concrete is not only durable but it’ll last for decades with minimal maintenance.

    Even better? Concrete provides a plethora of customization and flexibility. Concrete can be used throughout an outdoor kitchen, from the concrete floors to furniture to countertops to sinks! Let’s take a look at these elements in more detail:

    Concrete patios:

    A concrete patio can last 30 years if properly poured, sealed, and maintained. That’s a long life! By applying a sealer once every two years and giving it a good scrub every year, your concrete patio will look fantastic for years.

    Concrete furniture:

    It sounds surprising but concrete furniture is a great option for outdoor use. Majorly durable, this furniture is also perfect for those with allergies, as concrete doesn’t have issues with dust mites or mildew.

    Concrete sinks:

    Concrete is an excellent choice when you need unconventional dimensions for your sink or you want it integrated with the counter. In an outdoor kitchen, a small bar sink is a useful feature for your guests.

    Concrete countertops:

    We saved our favorite for last! Concrete countertops are incredible and can match any design due to the stamps and tinting options available (more on this below). They can be a work of art if the surface is polished or embedded with materials like glass. Easily cast trivets or cutting boards into the counter to further enhance its functionality. Since concrete is so strong, countertops can have overhangs or seamless sections. Lightweight edge liners complete the look. Our selection of Proline products transfer texture to edges, corners, and risers. Both flexible and reusable, these liners are available in many natural textures.

    Decorative concrete

    Concrete’s decorative options are one of its top features. Stamps provide the look of materials such as brick, wood, stone, and tile, while tinting and coloring products create a beautifully cohesive look. When working with existing concrete, color packs for cementitious overlays or ProStain are great options. Proline Color Hardener and Integral color are perfect on new concrete. Accent the project using color products like Antique Powder Release, EZ-Tique Antiquing Wash, or acrylic stains.

    Design considerations

    When planning an outdoor kitchen, you want to up the ante because a simple grill sitting on a concrete pad won’t wow the neighbors! Design to impress by incorporating these factors into the plan.

    1. Protection from the elements:

    Think about sun, shade, rain, show, and wind. You’ll want an outdoor kitchen to be adequately protected from undesirable weather. Make sure the area will be comfortable not only during the summer, but during the off-season too. Incorporate awnings, trellises, and built-in umbrellas so homeowners can use the kitchen when it’s hot, raining, and maybe even snowing. Don’t forget to take advantage of natural shade provided by trees and vines to help cool off. Lastly, take the wind into account when deciding where the grill will go so smoke won’t blow into your dining area or into the neighbor’s windows.

    2. Size:

    To ensure the area is used often, it has to meet the needs of the homeowners and accommodate their most typical gatherings. Ask about the entertaining needs of the family, such as how many people they might entertain, how big their families are, what kind of parties they host, and if they commonly use caterers.

    3. Location:

    When situating the kitchen, ensure it’s placed in the best location. Take natural shade into account (see above!), as well as proximity to the inside kitchen for max convenience. Consider the importance of accessibility, like minimizing steps or including ramps.

    4. Equipment:

    Don’t settle for just a grill in an outdoor kitchen. Take into account the wide variety of options available, including outdoor refrigerators, bar sinks, side burners, and built-in storage. (We love pizza ovens, too!)

    Ready to get started?

    Contact our friendly experts today at 800-221-9469 if you need assistance. We’re here to answer your project and product questions! If you’re ready to get started on an outdoor kitchen, start shopping our selection of Proline concrete stamps. To learn more, read Tips to Create the Perfect Outdoor Living Space and Four Trends for Outdoor Kitchens.

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