Little by little, we’ve been making steady improvements to our backyard. Instead of hiring a landscaper to design and install everything at once, we decided to do what we can ourselves over time. With limited free hours, progress has been gradual, but that slow, consistent approach fits our home’s rhythm. Last year we did hire help to install a pea gravel patio and we’re so glad we did — it transformed the space.
Each summer we try to add comfort and visual interest to what used to be a bare, uninspiring back yard. We’re still working on planting and creating privacy—lots of new-construction lots mean digging through rocks rather than nice, fluffy soil—but we’ve added plenty of seating, a great barbecue, an outdoor heater and a firepit so the pea gravel patio can be enjoyed through much of the year.
At this time of year I inspect patio furniture and outdoor accessories for winter wear. Some items can be stored under the house for protection, but others must stay outdoors, so we do our best to shield them from the elements. Living near Seattle, we get a lot of rain and with that comes mildew and moss, which can be hard on furniture and the barbecue if left unprotected.
I don’t like investing in pieces only to watch them look ruined the following season. I prefer to build on progress year after year and avoid spending spring scrubbing and restoring everything.
Protecting what we already own became a priority, so a few weeks ago I started researching durable cover options. I usually dislike the typical furniture covers available, but I was pleasantly surprised to find high-quality covers designed for key pieces. These heavy-duty covers from Classic Accessories include adjustable straps to tighten the fit, which helps keep covers secure in wind and prevents water pooling.
I even found a cover to protect the metal on our fire pit from rust and another that, amusingly, fits our freestanding heater. It looks a little funny, but it’s worth it — I’ll no longer worry about the heater, the barbecue or our wicker furniture suffering winter damage.
Our goal this summer is to finish defining the gravel patios with edging, rock and layered plantings. We’ve made good progress and now it’s time to focus on finishing touches. We’d also like to add more trees and trellises to increase shade and privacy. Overall, it’s rewarding to see the backyard become more welcoming each year, and I’m excited to keep working on the patios and garden this season.
The Ravenna patio furniture covers were available on sale at the time I purchased them. Classic Accessories provided the covers for me to try so I could share my experience. I only share products I genuinely use and recommend.