If you haven’t already done so, it is time to protect your precious backyard oasis and patio furniture from the cold of winter. It seems easy enough to just let it go, but a little time invested today will provide you with a perfect patio environment come spring. And let’s face it; spring will be here before you know it.

Hoses – this is a must. Disconnect all hoses from the spigots. It is not enough to simply drain the water; you must actually disconnect the hose from the spigot. Roll the hose nicely and bring it in the garage or shed for the winter. While not ideal, it is ok to leave your hose out on a reel for the winter as long as it is empty and not connected to a spigot. Next, those hose spigots. In order to protect your pipes, simply cover your hose spouts and any water fountains with a winter cover.Bring in all pots and potted plants. If you have bulbs planted in pots, simply move them in to the garage or shed to protect the pots from the elements. Empty pots should also be brought inside to avoid any excess wear and tear.Barbeques and grills should be cleaned, covered, and when possible stored in a shed or garage. Disconnect any fuel lines and re-cap the propane tank. Keep the propane tank stored outside and covered with a small tarp. Take good care in cleaning your grill so it will be ready to go the very first time you want to spark it up again.Now that you can put away your lawn mower for a couple of months, make sure it is cleaned and emptied. It is a good idea to bring it in for a tune up now and avoid the pre-spring rush. Protect your patio furniture. Lightweight furniture should be stacked and stored inside when possible. Heavier furniture should be covered with approved patio furniture coverings. If you have any pillows, bring those inside. Stacking chairs before covering will help protect them and free up outdoor space so you and your family can play when the snow arrives. Be sure to collapse your patio umbrella and store it inside. Cover the table with patio furniture coverings.Have your sprinklers blown out. Water left in sprinkler systems can freeze and crack pipes. This is a very costly and very avoidable scenario. Just be sure to call your sprinkler guy to winterize the backyard watering system.Patch any loose stones or cracks in your patio. If you have any loose spots on your patio, get some cement and patch them up before the first big freeze. Any trapped water that freezes is sure to create a bigger mess. Patch it up now before it gets any worse.

This whole list shouldn’t take too long to get through. These seven simple tasks will ensure your patio oasis will be ready and waiting for you the very first day of spring. As for now, enjoy a hot cup of cocoa by the fireplace and have a great winter.

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