Your patio is meant to be an outdoor sanctuary for you. It’s your place to sip iced tea in the sun, grill up some burgers for friends, or enjoy a chat on the twinkly lights. But when the weather decides to go rogue, whether it’s rain, snow or heat wave, that peaceful patio can turn into a slip and slide, or worse.

The good news is that with a few simple tweaks, you can keep your patio safe and usable all year round, no matter what the forecast throws your way. Let’s take a look at how you can keep your patio safe in all weathers.

1. Start with the basics. When it comes to your patio, the basics means surface safety. If your patio gets dangerously slick during a downpour, a slip resistant coating is a smart move. These coatings and texture and grip to concrete, tile or even wooden surfaces, and they help to prevent accidents without changing the overall look too much. It’s a one time job that can last you a lifetime, especially if you’ve got kids, pets, or anyone with less than graceful footing in your life. 
2. Tackle the drainage. Puddles are great when you’re 5, but they’re less so when you’re trying to enjoy your morning coffee without stepping into a swamp. Make sure that your patio has a slight slope to allow water to run off, or install a simple drainage system to keep things dry. Clearing out the debris and leaves from any existing drains is an easy weekend chore that will pay off big time when the skies open up. 
3. Get ready for winter. If you live somewhere that is prone to snow. Avoid surfaces that freeze over like glass. Wood can be especially treacherous if it’s untreated, so consider outdoor mats or rubber runners for the colder months. You also need to have a plan in place for snow and ice removal because they will build up quickly. Salt does work, but it can damage some patio materials, so look for a gentler alternative like pet safe Ice Melt.
4. Don’t forget about summer. Summer is lovely in the sunshine, but it does bring its own safety concerns. The blazing sun can turn your patio into a skillet if you’re not careful. To keep things cool, make sure that you invest in a good patio umbrella or shade sale. Not only will it make the space more comfortable, but you’ll also protect your furniture and surfaces from fading or cracking. A bit of shade also keeps your feet from burning if you happen to be barefoot.
5. Tie things down. A sudden gust of wind can send cushions flying or topple lightweight furniture. Secure your outdoor items with ties, clips or weighted bases. If you’re in an especially gusty area, consider windbreaks like lattice screens or tall planters. These double as decor.

Add some lighting to help you with your safety, and with just a few upgrades and a little maintenance, your patio can stay safe and inviting no matter the weather. Your backyard should be your happy place, not an obstacle course.