Long sunny days in the garden that linger into the evening are what summer is all about. But when the sun goes down, it can often feel quite cold and chilly. Thinking about outdoor heating ideas is a must if you want to extend your time outdoors and stay toasty.

Aside from the warmth element, an outdoor fireplace, wood burner or firepit ideas can make a fabulous focal point feature in any outside area. They can help to define the space and pull an outdoor scheme together. A great crowd-pleaser, an outdoor fire adds instant ambience too and makes a natural gathering point that guests gravitate to and linger around when entertaining into the evening.

Outdoor heating ideas

Deciding on which type of outdoor heating to opt for will depend on the size of your outdoor set-up and whether you want a permanent heating feature or a portable design that can be stored away when out of action. Think about ease of use too. There are the best firepits, baskets and burners that will require wood or solid fuel to burn, or there are gas-powered and electric heaters that will give warmth at the flick of a switch.

1. Create a focal point fireplace

Image credit: John Lewis

If you like to spend time outdoors all year round and you have the space for it as part of your patio ideas, then why not consider installing a permanent outdoor fireplace? A sheltered area or covered verandah makes the perfect location for an outdoor living room. Plus installing a fireplace feature (or making use of an existing one) will keep the whole area warm and dry and extend the time you can use your outdoor space.

Outdoor fireplaces have much the same construction as indoor ones, with a flue to direct smoke up the chimney rather than out into the seating area. Designs can vary from elaborate brick-built set-ups similar to indoor fireplaces, to outdoor kitchen-style grills and cooking spaces, simple chimineas or rustic wood burners.

‘The cost of building an outdoor fireplace might range from £600 upwards, depending on the type of fireplace you want to build, says Harry Bodell, gardening expert at Price Your Job, ‘alternatively, installing a small, pre-fabricated fireplace unit will be less expensive than constructing a massive handmade stone fireplace.’

2. Opt for a centrepiece stove

Image credit: Max Attenborough

There’s nothing like a roaring fire to add instant atmosphere outdoors. If you’d prefer something more contained than a blazing open fire outdoors, a wood-burning stove is a good option that will throw out plenty of heat and make a stylish centrepiece for a patio or terrace.

Mesh doors, metal grate and a chimney will encourage airflow and allows logs to burn more effectively, while the rusty-finish steel of this design adds a rustic charm that is perfect in a country setting.

Buy now: Wakehurst wood burning fireplace, £449, Gardenesque

3. Turn up the heat with a chiminea

Image credit: Future PLC/Jamie Mason

If patio space is tight or you have an area further along the garden that could use a little heat too, then consider a compact chiminea to warm up the space. Usually made from clay, cast iron or steel, chimineas are neat in size and take up a smaller footprint than similar garden fire pit ideas.

Chimineas are a traditional form of outdoor heating that originated in Mexico, with a traditional design of a round lower body topped by a vertical smokestack, and although modern variations of the design are available, they work in much the same way. The body of a chiminea will get quite hot, so should be positioned on a heat-proof surface or tiled mat for safety.

Buy now: Santa Lucia chiminea, £149.99, Primrose

4. Add impact with a freestanding fireplace

Image credit: Made

While brick-built fireplaces make a fabulous focal point feature, they can work out costly and will be a permanent fixture in an outdoor space, so this needs to be considered. For a lighter-weight, moveable option, consider a freestanding fireplace which will give an outdoor space a centrepiece, but requires no permanent fixtures so can be easily moved around.

Compact, but eye-catching, an iron fireplace like this one has a built-in flue. It combines the wood-burning area with a grill above for warming food, plus a small log store underneath.

Buy now: Ivy Line outdoor fireplace, £500, Made

5. Keep it simple with a fire basket

Image credit: Lights4fun

For a fuss-free option that will provide plenty of heat for your garden seating area, consider a simple fire basket. Lightweight and easy to shift around, should you want to move up garden or take it with you to the beach, a basket’s compact size makes it a good option for smaller spaces.

Make sure that any logs that you burn are dry and well-seasoned. Damp wood will smoke heavily and won’t get a good hot fire burning. Kiln-dried wood is a good option, but it can be a bit more expensive. Protect the surface underneath a fire basket or fire pit with paving slabs or stone.

‘Create a flexible entertaining space by making a fire pit the focal point and styling your seating around it,’ suggests Lucy Kirk, creative manager, Lights4fun. ‘Hang festoon lights from trees or your pergola and dress the floor with lanterns and candles to add light at varying heights and make your space feel bigger and brighter.’

Buy now: Black metal fire bucket garden fire pit, £34.99, Lights4fun

6. Shape up with a slimline style

Image credit: John Lewis

If you have a small garden and outdoor space is tight, then consider a super-slim outdoor fire that will still look eye-catching but take up minimum floor space. A modern version of the traditional chiminea, this design has the same central wood-burning firepit, with a laser-cut flue to funnel air, plus a useful log store underneath.

Arrange outdoor seating in a sociable set-up, much like an indoor living room. Position sofas and chairs across from each other and the heat source set centrally. That way everyone stays warm.

Make sure that a chiminea is positioned away from overhead branches or greenery and six inches or more away from wooden fences or other combustible materials.

Buy now: La Hacienda chiminea, £149, John Lewis

7. Double-up with a dual purpose design

Image credit: Homebase

Flex your garden space by investing in a combination table with built-in firepit that guests can gather around after dark. Taking up far less space than individual pieces, the smart metal coffee table features an integral firepit with grill insert for easy s’mores making and a mesh cover to keep sparks contained. When the firepit isn’t in use, just pop in the insert section and it can be used as a regular coffee table.

Buy now: La Hacienda chiminea, £149, John Lewis

8. Create a cosy corner plot

Image credit: John Lewis

Be strategic with your outdoor seating set-up to create the cosiest arrangement and harness warmth from your heat source. A corner sofa or sectional seating can be arranged in an L-shape with a fire pit positioned centrally where you can benefit most from the heat.

Positioning furniture in front of fences and panels will also help to enclose the area. The smaller the enclosure, the warmer it will be. Add taller plants and foliage around the boundary as another way of screening off the space further.

Buy now: La Hacienda Hawkesbury Magnesia fire pit, £169, John Lewis

9. Opt for an ‘incognito’ option

Image credit: Charlton Island

For a neat and discreet outdoor fire that will blend in with its surroundings when not being used, you can’t beat this mini column-style fire pit. The heat source is gas-fuelled and operated at the flick of a switch, via a propane gas canister. But the best part of all is the column’s timber-effect finish. This creates the appearance of a wooden log, with a lid that fits on top. That means it can double up as a side table when the flames are not in action.

Buy now: EcoTop UK Log style gas fire column, £389.99, Charlton Island

10. Enjoy instant heat

Image credit: Solus Decor

If a wood-burning fire is too much effort or too messy, consider a gas-fuelled fire that offers heat at the flick of a switch. Styles vary from simple fire pits and table-sized options to mini gas-fuelled pits that sit in the centre of a dining table.

A slimline design like this one is a good choice if patio space is limited. It offers a wall of flames that makes a statement feature, as well as throwing out plenty of heat. In larger spaces, a linear fire pit like this can be used in multiples. Create a long line run and space divider or double-stacked them to create a wall effect.

Buy now: Linear fire pit, POA, Solus Decor

11. Save space with a hanging heater

Image credit: Wayfair

If lack of space is an issue or you want a heating source that can be kept well away from little ones or pets, then consider a hanging patio heater. This is suspended from the roof of a covered terrace or verandah and designed to look like a regular light fitting.

Most electric hanging patio heaters use infrared technology, that radiates heat from above to warm anyone sitting or standing underneath. Heat is pretty much instant and because there is minimal heat loss, they can be a cost-effective option.

Buy now: Rhett electric patio heater, £99.99, Wayfair

12. Cook up a storm outdoors

Image credit: Future PLC/Emma Lee

Combine a simple fire pit with a tripod cooking frame. This allows the family to enjoy backyard cook-outs on summer evenings outdoors. The basic steel tripod simply slots over the top of a fire pit, so you can hang a pan or pot above the heat. Add a grill for easy barbecuing.

Buy now: Campfire tripod, £45, Wild Stoves

What is the best form of outdoor heating?

This depends on different factors, such as how much outdoor space you have, whether there is an outside power source and if you want your outdoor heating to be a permanent fixture or a portable option that is easily moved around.

‘Electric heaters are an easy and budget-friendly way to heat your garden,’ according to the experts at Homebase. ‘Simply plugin, flick a switch and enjoy instant warmth, choosing from floor, tabletop and wall-mounted units to tall, freestanding models.’

‘If your aim is to impress, firepits or fire baskets are a great outdoor heating idea. Designed to look like a freestanding open fireplace, usually made from steel or cast iron, they can make a stunning focal point in any space after the sun goes down.’

‘Gas heaters for outdoors are affordable, don’t require an electric outlet and can be moved around, although some models can be heavy.’

Can you leave a patio heater outside in the rain?

Electric patio heaters should never be left out directly in the rain, especially while they are on and operating. Natural gas and propane heaters will continue to work in the rain, but frequent exposure to rain can cause interference with burners and make equipment rust, so covering them up will prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

While wood-burning fire pits can withstand some rain, if left outside in the elements too long they may rust, so again covering up is sensible.

The post Outdoor heating ideas – 12 ways to warm up a patio, deck or back garden appeared first on Ideal Home.

Looking to save some cash? We have found a whole host of savvy ways to insulate a shed for free. The cost of living crisis is uppermost in our minds and many of us are looking at how to save money and energy, even in our humble garden sheds.

You may have already considered the best ways to insulate your home on a budget. But if you’ve not thought about how to insulate a shed on a budget, we are here to help.

‘Those of us that spend a lot of time in our sheds, creating, working, relaxing or pottering, know how cold they can get in the winter. They can also get stifling in the summer,’ says Jenny Davis, Forest Garden. ‘Insulating your wooden hideaway stops temperatures from fluctuating. This prevents condensation, damp and potential creature infestations. Using what you have around the house is a brilliant, cost-effective way to insulate a shed for free.’

Ways to insulate your shed for free

Image credit: Future plc

1. Make sure it’s waterproof

The best way to protect your shed and the things inside it is to make sure rain and damp can’t get in. ‘Check for any holes or missing seals around your shed door and windows where the warmth could escape,’ says Tony Kersey, Homebase’s Buying Manager. ‘Your shed roof can also make it draughty. Check that everything is still in place and nail any loose parts down.’

‘Seal any gaps by treating the walls with a wood-based sealant,’ says Nathan Hyatt-Mitchell, a Rated People builder. ‘This will prevent moisture and wind from entering the shed. It’s important to insulate a shed to protect the things of value that you keep inside. You could save the cost of replacing items at a later date.

Good ventilation is also important for most average-sized sheds, so install one or two vents. If you don’t want to spend anything, leave the shed windows or door open regularly while you’re at home.’

2. Insulate your shed walls with bubble wrap

If you’ve bought any large items, save the bubble wrap as it can be used as insulation. If you don’t have enough, it’s possible to buy 20-metre rolls for under £15 on Amazon. It’s a small outlay when you consider the value of the tools and equipment usually stored in a shed.

‘Measure the shed panels and cut the bubble wrap to size to fit over each post on the shed’s framework,’ says B&Q‘s Category Planner James Benfield. ‘Use a staple gun to attach the bubble wrap to the framing. Don’t staple or tack the bubble wrap directly to the cladding because there needs to be an air gap to prevent damp problems.’

3. Collect cardboard boxes for lining shed walls

It’s worth keeping cardboard boxes to use as free insulation. The air pockets between the layers of corrugated cardboard make it a great insulator.

‘Staple or tack cardboard to the walls and you’ll achieve a good level of insulation,’ says Jenny Davis, Forest Garden. ‘Although remember, investing in the future of your shed means that you’ll save time and money in the long term.’

It’s also worth bearing in mind that small furry things also find cardboard warm too, so it’s best used for the roof and walls, rather than the floor. If you use it and see at a later date that it’s been chewed, it can be an indication of vermin. Cardboard is also porous and will soak up water so ensure any gaps in the shed structure are sealed to avert any leaks or damp problems.

4. Use leftover loft or floor insulation

After doing a loft insulation, most of us have an extra roll or two lying around, as we tend to buy too much of what we need (no one wants a dash to the DIY shop midway through a job). If you’re nodding at this, find out how to insulate a shed and make use of those leftover rolls. If you only have a small amount, it’s worth just insulating the pitched roof.

According to Garden Buildings Direct, around 40% of shed heat loss is through the roofing. ‘Fiberglass insulation isn’t a rigid product, so be mindful that over time, it will gradually lose shape and slump down, particularly if it’s used vertically,’ says Insulation Superstore’s Rosie Milner.

5. Place an old carpet or rug on the floor

Image credit: Future plc/Andrew Woods

Extend the life of an old carpet, offcut or seen-better-days rug by using it to insulate the floor of your shed. Not only will you be repurposing it and adding a layer of insulation to the floor, but it’ll also be more comfortable to walk on than the hard surface.

Be mindful that your shed is on a flat, level base, so water isn’t able to puddle below. If there isn’t sufficient airflow beneath it, it may be necessary to include a breathable membrane between the floor and carpet to prevent damp penetration.

The post 5 ways to insulate a shed for free appeared first on Ideal Home.

Over the warmer months there are few things we enjoy as much as alfresco cooking and dining. One element of the space which you might not have given much consideration to yet are outdoor countertop ideas.

There’s a huge trend right now for outdoor kitchen ideas, but the focus tends to be on the layout, cooking equipment or furniture. Surfaces work hard, as somewhere to prep food, rest utensils or hot pans and as the basis for everything you need in the space.

With your garden kitchen there are a few things to bear in mind before you start searching for your worktops. ‘Find a nice spot among your garden ideas where you have enough space,’ advises Hege Lundh, Marketing & Business Development Director, Lundhs Real Stone. ‘The outdoor kitchen should not be fully exposed to sunlight, and if possible find the least windy area. Also make sure you plan accordingly for any water or electricity access, as this will play a big part in planning.’

Once these are all settled, it’s time to think about your surfaces.

Outdoor countertop ideas

With outdoor countertop ideas the material, finish and colour will have a huge impact on everything else you’re adding in, so make sure you choose wisely…

1. Choose a metallic design

Image credit: Future PLC/Mark Scott

Stainless steel is a popular choice for kitchens – and not just those indoors. Give your outdoor kitchen or garden bar ideas a modern twist by using steel on your countertops. It looks great, adds a cool, sleek element, plus it’s delightfully low-maintenance.

Also, part of why steel is so often used in kitchens is that it’s durable and naturally anti-bacterial, which is just as useful when you take it outside. One thing to bear in mind is that it will get hot in the sun, so it’s not the best option if you don’t have shade to work with.

2. Opt for natural stone

Image credit: Lundhs

‘When it comes to material and in particular worktop surface choice for an outdoor kitchen, the most important consideration is the weather and the climate,’ says Hege from Lundhs Real Stone. ‘Make sure you choose materials that will withstand changes in temperatures, exposure to the sun’s UV rays and also to the moisture of rain and dampness.’

‘Aesthetically, opting for a surface that will glisten in the sunlight will always work well. The crystals within natural stone catch the light beautifully and make for the perfect outdoor surface choice. Natural stone is used to the elements and so as a result, is an ideal fit for the outdoors. From colder temperatures and damp to high Heat and UV rays, it can withstand it all, setting it apart from other materials.’

3. Add texture with slate

Image credit: Future PLC/Tim Young

Show off natural undulations and pretty imperfections by choosing a rough and rustic piece of slate. The top will stay smooth while the edges will add that extra bit of visual interest. Plus, it’s naturally resistant to heat, so great if you’re working with hot pans or have a nearby fire.

It’s not the nicest – or easiest – material to cut things on, so make sure you work with cutting boards when prepping food. Also make sure you seal your slate as otherwise it can easily scratch and stain. Both of these should be kept in mind when you get stuck into learning how to clean a BBQ by a surface like this.

4. Create an industrial look with concrete

Image credit: Future PLC/Joanna Henderson

Concrete is having a moment in all areas of design. The versatile material can be poured into virtually any shape, so you can create whatever layout you need. This is also ideal if you’re working with small garden ideas and need to stick to more petite dimensions. As a bonus, remember you can get concrete in just about any colour, so you can go wild if grey isn’t your thing.

If you opt for concrete, you have to be sure to seal it correctly when installed, and resealed on a regular basis to prevent cracks and stains.

5. Add interest with bluestone

Image credit: Oxenwood

‘Belgian bluestone can be used indoors and outdoors; its low porosity makes it resistant to frost and pollution,’ says Charlie Alexander, Owner, Oxenwood Furniture. ‘Bluestone is a natural stone and contains fossils and white/greyish crystals and veins that run through the stone. The quantity and size of the fossils, crystals and veins will vary from piece to piece and are an inherent characteristic of the stone. Superficial micro scratches are normal and over time will contribute to the patina of the stone.’

‘In its natural state (so left unsealed), bluestone will temporarily mark if it comes into contact with some foodstuffs and beverages. If the bluestone is located outside, these marks will go over a relatively short period of time due to the cleaning action of the sun and rain. Sealed or unsealed, we recommend that spillages are wiped clean in a timely manner (in particular, vinegar, lemon juice and ketchup). Abrasive or acidic cleaners and washing up liquids should be avoided as cleaning agents.’

6. Look to simple slabs

Image credit: Future PLC/Claire Lloyd-Davies

Tile slabs are worth considering for outdoor countertop ideas just as they are for your patio paving ideas. This is the best solution if you want to make a statement with your surfaces as tiles, of course, come in all manner of colours, patterns and finishes.

Porcelain is the best material for using tiles outdoors, as it’s non-porous and heat-resistant. However, tiles can crack in cold temperature, so you do need to consider if you want to deal with the necessary maintenance.

7. Go traditional with wood

Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore

We use wood in our garden furniture ideas for good reason. It’s naturally strong, can handle just about every kind of temperature and can be stained to match your style. Additionally, some types of wood are even resistant to insects and mould.

All that said, it’s a needy material and requires a good deal of upkeep to stay in tip-top condition. An alternative is choosing a wood effect tile, so you get the look without as much maintenance.

8. Enhance light with a bright white

Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles

If you’re looking for stone tiles, consider choosing a light colour like a white. This will help bounce light around and make your garden and outdoor kitchen feel brighter than it is, even on the dullest of days. Plus, it’s one of the classic tricks for how to make a small garden look bigger.

Make life a little easier for yourself and choose one with natural imperfections in the colour so you won’t get annoyed by any stains which may occur.

9. Build in the sink with the same material

Image credit: Lundhs

When you’re thinking about your outdoor countertop ideas, think outside the box. Or, rather, into it. For a chic and seamless look, cover your outdoor sink ideas in the same material.

Do note that this of course only works with non-porous materials, so stick with natural stones for your basin area!

10. Paint wood to add colour

Image credit: Future PLC

Inject a splash of colour to your outdoor space with more than just bright flowers. Coat your wooden countertop in a weatherproof exterior paint to make it a standout feature. Budget garden ideas can really be as simple as that! Either go for a bold, contrasting colour or choose a complementary shade for a tonal effect.

What material can be used for outdoor countertops?

A range of materials can be used for outdoor countertop ideas. Some of the most popular are natural stone, tiles and concrete. Wood is another, more traditional option, but does require more maintenance than the heftier choices. Steel can also be considered, but it does tend to get hot in the sun. In terms of which stones work best you can look at granite, soapstone and marble for natural choices.

Manufactured materials, like recycled glass or quartz, can sometimes be used, but they’re not all suitable for outdoor use, so be sure to check with your supplier before making the investment.

What is the most durable outdoor countertop?

‘The key to a long-lasting outdoor surface is something that will stand the test of time against the elements,’ says Hege from Lundhs Real Stone.  ‘The features you should look for are a material that has low porosity, low absorption and a resistance to UV. Opt for a material that is easy to clean and is maintenance-free.’

‘A completely natural stone will be used to the elements and notoriously only requires very little maintenance – a simple wipe with a damp cloth will suffice!’

The post Outdoor countertop ideas to finish your alfresco kitchen to perfection appeared first on Ideal Home.