Storms are a normal part of the weather throughout Texas and
surrounding areas, and they can wreak havoc on your restaurant's outdoor spaces
if you don't plan ahead. How can you prepare an outdoor lounge or dining room
to be functional and comfortable no matter what is expected? Try some of these
ideas.
One of the best ways to turn an outdoor dining area into an
all-weather space is to add four- or fivesided protection. The most protective
cover you can choose is generally a full roof made of similar materials as your
building's roof. This will withstand the most pummeling by wind, rain, and ice.
If a full shingled roof isn't possible, pergolas are an
excellent choice. A pergola is made from a sturdy wood frame (usually cedar,
pine, or redwood) which is permanently installed. Combine this solid frame with
a lighter material for good weather - often a fabric shade, vinyl, or
artificial greenery - which you can easily slide off before trouble strikes.
A retractable awning is another great way to protect a
smaller area in regular weather. Rolling it up will also protect your roof in
extreme situations, although it opens up the patio to more of the
elements.
Storm protection isn't just about the roof, of course. The
more side protection you include, the longer you can use the outdoor dining
room and the more it is protected from flying debris and hail when the worst
comes.
Your restaurant's exterior wall usually provides one side of
protective cover. For the other sides, look for hardwood, steel, or iron frames
on which you can secure cross pieces. Allowing some wind to push through may be
somewhat counter-intuitive, but it decreases the sheer force placed on
these walls.
Frequent weather issues not only close down an outdoor
dining area but they also require extra attention and time from your staff. Do
you have to go out and remove all the furnishings from the outdoor patio every
time the weather looks rough? Instead, why not opt for more durable furnishings
designed to withstand the forces?
You have several choices in more permanent fixtures. A
concrete and hardwood bench offers permanent, waterproof seating that you make
comfortable with simple cushions stored underneath. And no one needs to move it
all the time. Similarly, heavy wrought iron doesn't risk being blown away in
most storms the way that plastic and aluminum chairs and tables will.
Even smaller items can be secured better. Screw decor
directly into walls rather than hanging it or laying it around the patio. And
use clear earthquake gel to stick individual items to tables and floors.
Start with the right choices for all your outdoor materials.
Metal furniture may be susceptible to rust and deterioration, which will increase
your costs and require removal of such furniture when moisture is an issue. And
unsecured items on tables need removed before they blow away or become
drenched.
Look for ways to weatherproof the outdoor lounge at all
times instead of just before a storm. Concrete, for instance, provides durable
and low-maintenance outside flooring. If you use concrete polishing methods or
stamping, modern concrete can be made to look like tile, wood, stone, or even a
rug - all without adding anything susceptible to storms.
If you think outside the box, you'll find many ways to
create a stormproof setting. For example, vines and evergreens can generally
withstand most storms while providing mild weather protection at all times. Or
use self-latching and locking waterproof cabinets to store outdoor equipment
and supplies. And focus on waterproof and durable outdoor art
pieces.
As you plan ahead for bad weather, you will be able to
design an outdoor eating area that is practical and still comfortable for
guests no matter what time of year it is. At Superior Outdoor Designs, we
specialize in helping Texas businesses and homeowners find solutions to their
specific outdoor challenges. Call today to learn what we can do for you.
