Design a Profit-Boosting Commercial Patio

An inviting commercial patio can be great advertising. Businesses with attractive outdoor spaces, including restaurants and rental properties, have greater appeal to potential customers and residents. Design and decorate the commercial patio with outdoor furniture and lighting to cultivate an appealing atmosphere.

• Choose commercial patio furniture, outdoor rugs and outdoor plant pots that enhance the space’s design.
• Use lighting to brighten the space while improving security. Outdoor security lighting can make a patio safer, while outdoor pendant lighting, landscape lighting and string lights offer different styles of illumination that can draw the attention of passers-by.
• Fences or screens can separate the patio from more crowded or public areas to create a more quiet, private setting.

Design your commercial patio based on whether you plan to use it for dining, bar service, entertainment, outdoor receptions or other options. Refreshments, games and entertainment can encourage return visitors.

• Gas grills and other outdoor kitchen equipment enhance food service while providing savory cooking aromas.
• Outdoor bars provide gathering places for serving spirits and other drinks.
• Lawn & backyard games encourage guests to spend time having fun, while outdoor daybeds allow them to take it easy.

Pro Tip: Before building an outdoor space, check for such local requirements as health codes, noise ordinances, alcohol licenses, fire safety plans and permits for installing plumbing and electricity for outdoor kitchens or bars.

All-season patios include features that attract and retain visitors even in hot summers or cool winters while protecting them from inclement weather.

• Patio heaters keep the space warm on chilly days or nights. Hot tubs also provide a relaxing contrast to the outdoor temperature.
• Fire pits and fire pit patio sets provide warm, comfortable conversation pieces.
• Outdoor ceiling fans offer attractive decorative elements that keep the patio cool.
• Patio awnings, outdoor shades and umbrellas can reduce glare and even allow customers to enjoy the space during a light rain.
• Patio furniture covers offer protection from rainfall and inclement weather.

Commercial patios with outdoor kitchens, bars or picnic areas can attract such invited guests as insects and small animals. Plan frequent cleanings and other steps to prevent pests.

• Make sure all foods, especially fresh fruit, juices and sugars, are securely stored and clean spills immediately.
• Commercial trash cans help keep pests out of the garbage.
• Outdoor insect & pest control products help keep invasive animals at bay.

Pro Tip: Consider decorating the space with pest-deterring plants such as marigolds or petunias, depending on the climate and common pests in your location.

Make sure your commercial patio looks its best and lasts as long as possible with preventative maintenance.

• Composite decking boards last longer than traditional wooden boards.
• Wood & deck stains protect the surface from the elements while giving the boards richer colors.
• Concrete sealers and other concrete repair products can fix damaged areas.

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