Though the weather is cold, that doesn't mean you need to be stuck inside all winter. A patio is a luxury that needs to be utilized every month of the year regardless of the temperature or weather outside.

Check out these winter patio ideas so yours is useable all year round - even in the dead of winter. Our winter backyard ideas add warmth, comfort and style so you can take full advantage of the patio you put so much time and money into.

The Best Winter Patio Ideas

1. Add a Source of Heat

One of the best winter patio ideas is adding a fire pit or fireplace to your yard to make sure you can entertain outdoors while staying warm at the same time. Besides the fact that fireplaces are versatile, they are also a great focal point and place to huddle around. If your patio is made of paving stones or you add proper protection, you can place the fire pit directly on the patio, making it more accessible and easier to maintain.

Don't worry about getting all smokey. With Nicolock, you can include a Lume Multi-Sided Smokeless Wood Fire Pit and fireplace inserts. This means you can have the fire going for hours and never need to worry about getting smoke in your face, making your time out on the patio that much more enjoyable.

2. Add Warm Blankets, Cushions and Lighting

Another way to keep everyone warm is to add some blankets and pillows that your family and guests can cozy up with. Adding a touch of the indoors to your outdoor patio is the perfect way to keep warm on those brisk winter nights.

Not only does the winter bring cooler temperatures, but it also brings longer nights - so make sure to add some fun lights to keep the long nights illuminated. You can add solar, LED and multi-colored lights or just a few pathway markers.

3. Weatherproof Furniture

With the winter months comes some harsh weather, especially if it includes snow. A great winter patio idea is to have furniture out there that can withstand the weather. The best types of furniture you can get for harsh winters are teak, polyresin wicker and powder-coated steel. Your outdoor dining appliances should also be made of stainless steel or another durable material.

Order some patio furniture covers as well and keep an eye on the weather report for the coming days. If you see bad weather in the forecast, the best decision is to cover all your furniture to keep it extra protected.

4. Add an Overhang or Enclosure

Adding an overhang is another great way to protect your patio from harsh weather. It can either be attached to your home or a freestanding structure. Either way, adding an overhang will help you enjoy the outdoors no matter what type of day it is out.

Another option is a temporary winter patio enclosure. This will provide even more protection against biting wind and falling snow - and you can easily take it down when the warmer weather returns. Set up a pre-made patio enclosure or create your own using insulated curtains, clear vinyl siding and other materials.

Get More from Your Patio

A patio deserves to be used more than just in the warmer months of the year. Take any of these patio ideas for cold climates to make sure you get to enjoy the outdoors all year.

You'll also need a patio that can handle the winter elements. Paver-Shield™ Pavers are the best patio pavers for cold climate installations. Our state-of-the-art manufacturing process produces pavers that have vibrant color throughout the stone while resisting cracking and fading. Visit a local dealer to find the right paving stones to create all-weather patios for family and friends.