Get Summer Ready: Simple Patio Upgrades for Your Ultimate Outdoor Gathering

June 27, 2025 – Summer is officially here, and at Ply Gem Canada, we believe there’s no better time to take full advantage of your outdoor space. Whether you’re planning backyard barbecues, sunset hangouts, or a quiet place to unwind, a few easy upgrades can turn your patio into the perfect summer escape. 

Here are some simple but impactful ways to get your outdoor space primed for the season: 

Start with a Deep Clean – A fresh, clutter-free space is the foundation of any great patio. Before you think about upgrades, give your outdoor area a thorough clean: 

• Power wash patios and decks to blast away built-up dirt and reveal any areas in need of repair.
• Scrub down furniture—tables, chairs, and cushions all benefit from a seasonal refresh.
• Wash windows and patio doors for a clear view and a polished look.
• Inspect and weatherproof your windows while you’re at it—summer is the perfect time to boost energy efficiency. Need help? Check out Ply Gem Canada’s maintenance and care tips, here. 

Set the Mood with Lighting – Keep the good times rolling long after sunset with strategic lighting: 

• String lights add instant ambiance overhead.
• LED candles offer a warm glow—without the fire risk.
• Durable commercial-grade lights stand up to summer weather.
• Solar-powered lights let you brighten up corners without needing an outlet.

Keep Pests at Bay – Don’t let bugs crash the party. Here are a few tips to keep your space pest-free: 

• Eliminate standing water to deter mosquitoes. 
• Clear cobwebs and monitor for spider activity. 
• Watch for signs of larger pests in gardens or shrubs. 
• Add citronella plants like lemongrass for a natural (and decorative) insect repellent.

Bring the Outdoors to Life – After a long winter, reviving your yard and adding greenery can do wonders for your space: 

• Weed and reseed patchy areas for a lush lawn.
• Adjust your mower to 2.5–3 inches and vary mowing direction to keep grass healthy.
• Fertilize and water regularly for vibrant growth.
• Add planters with colorful flowers and varied textures for visual interest on your patio.

Create a Fun and Functional Hangout Zone – Whether you’re hosting friends or entertaining the kids, a versatile space is key: 

• Prep your grill—a clean, well-maintained BBQ is essential for summer cookouts.
• Keep a bin of toys or games handy for easy kid-friendly fun.
• Add shade with umbrellas or pergolas to escape midday heat.
• Consider installing a ceiling fan or porch swing under your overhang for bonus comfort and charm. 

Upgrade with Stylish Patio Doors – New patio doors or updated windows can make a dramatic difference in both style and function. While a larger project to undertake, Ply Gem Canada offers a variety of patio door designs to match your outdoor vision and provide a large impact to change the look of your patio space: 

Sliding Patio Doors create a smooth transition from indoor to outdoor living, ideal for entertaining. Ply Gem Canada has four lines of sliding patio doors to match your design preference.

Comfort Series Patio Door is a vinyl patio door that is cost effective and comes in a variety of internal and external Fusion Colour Wrap™. 

Design Series Patio Door is an exterior clad vinyl patio door that is a bold statement piece for your patio space. 

Design Architectural Series Patio Door is an innovative externally and internally aluminum clad vinyl patio door that brings a modern look to any outdoor living space. 

Signature Series Patio Door provides traditional craftsmanship with enduring beauty with an aluminum clad wood patio door. 

Hinged Garden Doors provide classic charm and frame beautiful backyard views. With a wide range of frame colours and slab styles, it’s easy to find the right look for your space.

Make the Most of the Season 

Summer is for making memories, and your backyard should be ready to handle it all—from quiet coffee mornings to lively evening get-togethers. Ply Gem Canada is here to help you elevate your outdoor living with stylish, functional products designed for Canadian summers. 

Ready to transform your space? Visit our Patio Door Collection to explore options and get inspired or contact us to speak to one of our dedicated sales representatives on how they can help you achieve your patio door dreams. 

Let’s make your patio the place to be this summer.