Enjoy Summer Savings in Your Own Backyard

We’ve got can’t-miss ways to help you save on patio furniture—plus fun, affordable tips on decorating and enjoying your own backyard. Be proud lounging out back on a lazy Sunday afternoon while hosting a family reunion or throwing a neighborhood get-together.

We already covered grills this year in our 2011 Griller’s Guide, so we’re guessing that you’re good there by now. The four other outdoor essentials you don’t want to be without are furniture, umbrellas, fire pits and accessories.

Here’s what to look for and some tips on how to get a great deal on all of them before summer gets into swing.

Setting the Table

Patio furniture is the most important decision you’ll make outfitting your space. It’s not where you’ll spend the most time, but your other choices will likely be based on what you decide here. .

If you have a big yard, you might want to go for larger pieces that people can really lounge in. For smaller spaces, bistro sets are really all you need to enjoy a nice meal or cocktail on your patio. If your yard gets a lot of sun, choose a wood that weathers well – teak is a great option – or even eco-friendly plastic like a resin-wicker set. And remember your shading needs. There’s nothing worse than buying a table and realizing it has no umbrella hole!

Right now at Patio Furniture USA you can save up to 60% during one the season’s best clearance sales . They have a wide range of great looks in traditional and contemporary styles.

Another deal we love: through June 25, Sears has 20% off on all patio sets plus free shipping.

Stay in the Shade

If you accidentally buy a table without an umbrella cut-out, or if you just want a more modern furniture feel, PatioUmbrellas.com has nearly every look under the sun, including shade sails, for up to 40% off. Find suspended Coolaroo triangles, offset umbrellas and patio umbrellas. We love the unique look of the shade sails because they’re a piece of art for your yard.

Fire Up the Pit

No back yard is complete these days without adding an outdoor fireplace. Fire pits add ambiance and warmth to cool summer nights, extend your outdoor living into autumn – plus the kids will be able to make s’mores without making a mess in your microwave! Right now save 10% on a wide selection of self-contained, decorative firepits at Northline. And through June 30, Build.com lets you save 5% on all fire pits, BBQ's and patio. Just visit the outdoor living department. 

Clean Up and Save

 If you’re not in the market for a whole new set-up this year, give your existing set a makeover and make the most of what you have. Do a full-blown seasonal clean up with a wash down and sealer re-application on wooden sets. You might also think about rearranging your current furniture and spicing things up with some new pillows, a string of lights or a focal piece of outdoor décor. Kmart currently has 10% off on all outdoor décor and accessories.

Summer, and these deals, go fast, so transform your backyard into a playground of comfort and style – and start living it up outdoors!