Posted by Chair King Backyard Store

When summer arrives, we all want to enjoy the outdoors—lounging poolside, reading under the shade, or hosting cookouts with friends and family. But the season also brings high temperatures and the risk of hurricanes, especially for those living along the Gulf Coast or southeastern United States. That’s why it’s important to create an outdoor space that’s not only comfortable and inviting but also safe.

With a little planning and the right outdoor furniture and accessories, you can design a backyard escape that protects you from the sun and withstands severe weather. Here’s how:

There’s nothing quite like relaxing outside on a warm summer day, especially when your patio is outfitted with the right furniture and cooling solutions. Start with a comfortable seating arrangement—chaise lounges are a summer favorite, offering the perfect spot to recline and soak up some rays. Look for materials like teak or sling that stay cool during high temperatures and hold up well in the heat.

To beat the midday sun, patio umbrellas are a must. Choose from market-style or cantilever umbrellas in UV-resistant fabrics that block harmful rays while adding a splash of color to your outdoor space. For even more comfort, add outdoor cushions and pillows made with fade-resistant materials. Not only do they add style, but they also make your furniture more enjoyable for longer lounging sessions.

If you’re entertaining or spending time outdoors in the peak of the day, consider adding cooling accessories like misting fans or portable patio fans. These can lower the temperature by several degrees and make even the hottest afternoons feel refreshing. And don’t forget hydration—set up a drink station with shatterproof acrylic drinkware so your guests can sip safely and stylishly.

As relaxing as summer can be, it’s also the height of hurricane season. If you live in an area prone to storms, it’s crucial to protect your outdoor furniture and accessories from high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris.

Start by investing in high-quality furniture covers. These custom-fitted covers are designed to shield your furniture from UV rays, moisture, and dirt year-round—but they’re especially useful when a storm is brewing. Simply slip them over your seating sets, chaise lounges, dining tables, and umbrellas for fast, effective protection.

Outdoor storage boxes are another smart investment. Use them to stow away cushions, throw pillows, patio umbrellas, and smaller accessories whenever storms are in the forecast. Look for waterproof, lockable designs that can keep your belongings dry and secure even in heavy rain.

During hurricane season, it’s also important to secure larger items. Patio umbrellas should be closed and removed from their stands whenever strong winds are predicted. If they can’t be stored indoors, use umbrella covers and heavy-duty bases to keep them anchored. Stackable furniture, such as sling chairs or lounge seating, can be grouped and secured to prevent tipping or movement.

One of the best ways to stay comfortable during the summer is to schedule your outdoor time wisely. The sun is most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to plan activities like outdoor dining, lounging, or entertaining for early mornings or evenings when it’s cooler outside. Having proper lighting on your patio can extend those post-sunset gatherings—string lights, outdoor lanterns, and flameless LED candles all create a cozy glow without adding heat.

If you’re spending your evenings outside, consider placing a few outdoor rugs under your seating areas. They help define your space, add comfort underfoot, and can be easily rolled up and stored away if severe weather approaches.

What’s great about building a storm-ready summer patio is that many of the products you’ll need serve more than one purpose. For example, chaise lounges are perfect for sunbathing on hot days, but they’re also lightweight enough to be moved quickly if you need to store them before a storm. Outdoor cushions and pillows bring comfort to your patio year-round but are even more valuable when paired with storage solutions that protect them when not in use.

Here are a few versatile outdoor living essentials that help you stay cool and stay prepared:

• Chaise lounges – Great for sunbathing and relaxing, and easy to move or cover.

• Patio umbrellas – Provide critical sun protection and can be stored during storms.

• Furniture covers – Shield your furniture from the elements all summer long.

• Outdoor storage chests – Keep your cushions, throw pillows, and accessories dry and secure.

• Outdoor fans and misting systems – Cool down your space without permanent installations.

At Chair King Backyard Store, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between comfort and caution. With the right planning and the right products, your patio can be both a relaxing retreat and a storm-resistant space. Whether you’re lounging on a chaise in the sun or packing things up ahead of a tropical storm, we’re here to help you make the most of every season.

Explore our wide selection of outdoor furniture, chaise lounges, patio umbrellas, furniture covers, and storage solutions—everything you need to turn your backyard into a summer haven that’s ready for anything.