‍Upgrade Your Outdoor Living Space for an Extra 3-4 Months Outdoors!

There’s no denying it. Fall is a beautiful time of year. The cool weather rolls in, and with it apple picking, pumpkin carving, and holiday time spent with the people you love. But the trouble is this—and we all know it.

Winter is coming.

But hey, the colder weather doesn’t have to trap you indoors. In this article, we’re going to show you how to make the most of the cooler days—even allowing you to spend an extra 3-4 months this year enjoying your outdoor living space. 

What Exactly Are Outdoor Living Spaces?

Let’s start with the basics. When many homeowners think “outdoor living,” the first image that comes to mind are of porches and patios. And while those are awesome upgrades to add to your home, there’s a whole lot more to outdoor living than that.

In fact, with an enclosed—or even partially enclosed—space, you can design a comfortable living area that allows for reading the morning paper as the sun comes up in March, grilling in October and November, or sipping hot cocoa as the first snowflakes drift down.

Basic Upgrades to Get You Outside Earlier in Spring (and Later in Fall)

In southeastern Pennsylvania, most patios sit empty from late October until April… and that feels like wasted square footage as far as we’re concerned.

The trick to enjoying more of these spaces is a design that prioritizes comfort.

Here’s how:

• Start with Shelter: pergolas with retractable canopies, screened-in porches, or three-season enclosures keep wind and rain at bay
• Add Warmth: freestanding propane heaters, ceiling-mounted infrared units, built-in firepits, and even radiant floor heating to keep you toasty
• Finish Cozy: toss in some plush seating, throw blankets, and outdoor rugs for a space that’s protected, warm, and comfortable

The Secret to Comfortable Outdoor Living—Even When It’s Cold (Brrr ❄️) 

To make an outdoor living space truly usable for three, or, dare we suggest, even four seasons, you need only two key ingredients: protection from the elements and a reliable heating source.

Here’s what that looks like for the outdoor living spaces we’ve built for other Pennsylvania homeowners.

• Enclosures: Glass or vinyl panels let the sunlight in and keep the wind out—and many systems can be opened or removed in warmer months 
• Fireplace and Fire Pits: Nothing says “gather here” like open flames—be it propane, gas, or wood, the warmth and ambiance is tough to beat
• Heaters: Wall-mounted or freestanding, the right heater can heat a surprising amount of space—especially if you size up on square footage coverage

Looking for some inspiration? Check out our project gallery.

Outdoor Kitchens and Dining Spaces: the Heart of Year-Round Gatherings

A great outdoor living space invites people to linger, and food tends to be a part of that.

Features like built-in grills, pizza ovens, and countertop heaters give you the satisfaction of enjoying burgers, steaks, glasses of wine, and family gatherings—not to mention a little more space for guests—all through the holiday season.

Set the Mood with the Right Lighting, Furnishings, and Ambiance

As the weather cools and days get shorter, lighting plays a significant role in extending your outdoor hours

Think layered lighting, like sconces, pendants, lanterns, and string lights, for creating warmth and depth. Additionally, durable, weather-resistant furnishings dressed in soft cushions and textiles are always a winner for when guests come to visit. 

And with seasonal décor and colors adding the finishing touches (pumpkins, mums, wreaths, and more), your space will inspire and welcome guests year-round.

What Does the E&E Contracting Experience Look Like?

“At E&E General Contracting, our outdoor living process is about more than just building structures—it’s about creating spaces where life happens. 
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We start by meeting with each homeowner to understand how they want to use their outdoor area—whether that’s for quiet evenings with family, hosting friends for summer cookouts, or simply extending the comfort of their home into the fresh air. 
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Then, we guide our customers through every step: thoughtful design, clear budgeting, finish level options, permits, and construction. We believe the experience should be as enjoyable and stress-free as the finished product itself.
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Our most common projects include things like custom composite decks, covered porches, pergolas, pavilions, screened rooms, patios, and outdoor kitchens. We love incorporating details like lighting, railing accents, built-in seating, and smart storage to make spaces feel intentional and tailored. 
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From simple upgrades to fully customized backyard retreats, we handle everything from concept to completion with a focus on craftsmanship, communication, and lasting quality. Our goal is to create outdoor spaces that feel like a natural extension of your home—places to relax, gather, and make memories for years to come.”

- Matt Esh, Co-Owner of E&E General Contracting 

Why E&E Loves Building Outdoor Living Spaces

At E&E, we believe your home’s best moments shouldn’t be confined to four walls—or four months. And to keep this whole “four” thing going, it’s our firm standing that you can enjoy your outdoor space for at least some of all four seasons.

We’re all for it!

That said, it can be difficult to know where to start—or who to call as your general contractor. And while you should definitely shop around (you can use this guide to help you find the perfect fit for your home), we’d like to throw our name into the hat.

Because our crews believe that your home is a reflection of who you are. And you deserve to live in a space you love—one you’re proud of—the place where you can enjoy the years and make memories with family and friends.

So let’s bring your dream outdoor space to life. Screened porches, stone fireplaces, a three-season room, full outdoor kitchens (we also install personal golf greens… a favorite of ours), whatever you’re dreaming up, our crews are ready to help make that vision a reality.

Not sure where to begin? Here are a few next steps to help you get started:

• Reach out for a complimentary estimate now
• Check out our Outdoor Living Space page
• Take a peek at our recent project gallery

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E&E General Contracting has been a trusted provider of exterior renovations, outdoor living spaces, home remodels, and more for over thirty years. All projects come backed by a lifetime workmanship warranty and the assurance that comes with highly skilled, communicative, and caring crews. Reach out for a complimentary estimate on your outdoor living space today—because you deserve to enjoy all of your home year-round.

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