After enjoying sunny days in the garden, many of us retreat indoors once the winter weather comes. For some people, the garden becomes a no-go zone. Think about the barriers that stop you from getting outdoors over the autumn and winter. These could include:

• The worry of falling on uneven paving or slippery decking
• Steep steps that become hazardous in wet and icy weather
• The danger of tripping on dark pathways
• Damage caused by storms or heavy rainfall

We now understand more about the health and well-being benefits of spending time outdoors. Recent research from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, found that getting enough natural sunlight improves mood and sleep and even lowers the risk of depression. Physician and wellness expert Dr Rangan Chatterjee regularly comments on the health benefits of being outside in nature.

Just taking some time each day to walk around the garden, enjoy an alfresco meal or take our morning coffee outside could seriously improve your quality of life. So, what changes will you make to create a safe garden to enjoy through the seasons?

Slippery or uneven surfaces are a major safety concern for many people, particularly anyone with mobility problems. Uneven paving or steep steps can be hazardous at any time of year, but when the light fades and the ground is wet, they can be a real danger.

When it becomes wet or icy, traditional decking can be notoriously slippery. The inevitable build-up of algae and leaves in the autumn and winter months adds to the problem. Replacing old paving or decking with non-slip decking is a practical solution. Unlike traditional timber decking, it stays safe even in wet or icy weather. One Gripsure customer helped his in-laws’ enhance their quality of life when he replaced their slippery decking with Gripsure non-slip decking. The elderly couple now regularly enjoy time in their garden without the worry of falling. You can also install non-slip decking on walkways and steps, creating a safe route through your garden in any weather.

We are experiencing more extreme weather events, which means we all need to be prepared for storms. High winds can cause devastation in our gardens, including damage to fences, sheds and trees. Unsecured objects and garden furniture should be packed away if bad weather is forecast. Trampolines can become airborne in high winds so many companies now sell kits to anchor them down.

The Met Office has published guidance on protecting your property in a storm. The RHS also has some good advice on preparing your garden for winter, including regularly checking structures, such as fences and trellises, and planting hedges as windbreaks if necessary.

To safely venture into your garden after dark, you’ll need good lighting. Think about the spaces that are a priority for you. These could include paths, steps and any areas you want to enjoy after sundown, such as a deck or patio. You may also want to consider security lighting to reduce the risk of garden thefts or trespassers.

Lighting is not just about safety. It can be an aesthetic feature, creating an atmosphere in your garden. Writing for the Society of Garden Designers, lighting designer Sanjit Bahra has shared his tips and inspiration for illuminating your garden.

Our changing climate means we are experiencing more bouts of heavy rain. As a result, flooding is a growing concern. Regularly checking gutters and drains for blockages and installing a water butt are simple steps anyone can take. The Rivers Trust has shared some more ideas for reducing the risk of flooding in your garden.

Some gardeners choose to create a rain garden. This sounds like an ambitious project, but it can simply involve creating an area that is low-lying and planted with native species that absorb rain and tolerate being in water. Hard surfaces are more prone to flooding, with patios being a particular problem when it comes to surface water. Timber decking is a far better solution if you are concerned about flooding. That’s because it is permeable and allows rainwater to flow underneath. However, when you are installing a deck, it is important to ensure there is a slight fall in the deck so that water can easily run off it. The Timber Decking and Cladding Association (TDCA) explains how you can incorporate a sustainable drainage system into your decking.

Getting outdoors in all seasons is so important for our wellbeing and having a safe garden all year round could be the key. Taking steps to overcome common garden hazards could help you make the most of your outdoor space throughout the autumn and winter.

Is tatty furniture, tired paving and an uninspiring display of plants getting you down? If your garden is falling short of expectations, it can be difficult to know where to start. And if, like most people, you are constrained by time as well as budget, that dream garden may feel out of reach. However, there are many quick and good value ways to upgrade your garden. Investing just a little time and money can give you a great return on investment, both increasing the value of your property and enhancing your quality of life.

Boundaries are an often overlooked but pivotal feature of any garden. Consider whether you can refresh the walls, fences or hedges surrounding your patch. You can turn a boring fence into a key feature by adding a trellis and buying a couple of climbing plants. A plain wall could be made beautiful if you paint it your favourite colour and add some wall planters.

The surfaces you choose for your garden have a huge impact on how you can enjoy the space. However, people often forget that they are not permanent and can be changed. If you are struggling to find the time and motivation to mow a lawn, consider opting for something lower maintenance. If uneven paving slabs are causing you stress, remember: you’re not stuck with them forever.

When choosing surfaces, be practical and think about how you will use the garden throughout the year. Many people find that, once winter brings wet or icy weather, that deck they installed for summer barbecues becomes dangerously slippery. That’s why non-slip decking is the best year-round option. While installing a deck may seem like a major project, it is a relatively easy way to transform an outdoor space. For a really simple option, Gripsure anti-slip decking kits or decking tiles allow you to create a safe and beautiful deck in a fraction of the time.

Most of us have made bad decisions with our planting over the years. Whether it’s placing a sun-loving shrub in the shade or forgetting to water our pots, we don’t always get it right. It’s easy to waste money by buying plants that are not right for your garden or lifestyle. Be realistic about what you can grow. If you are a keen gardener then you may be happy to spend time tending and nurturing your garden. You can save money by growing plants from seed and propagate them by taking cuttings. Those who are less green fingered, however, can opt for plants that need little attention, such as hardy evergreen shrubs. The RHS has some great advice on low maintenance gardens.

Adding pots can be a great way to instantly improve your garden but they do need regular watering. Choosing larger pots and grouping them together will make this quicker and easier. If you are short on time, you can still have a beautiful garden. Just check on the ideal conditions for plants before you buy.

We’re spending more time in our gardens than ever and, during the pandemic, our outdoor spaces have become crucial for entertaining friends and family. That means you probably need a decent set of garden furniture to make the most of your outdoor space. Take stock of what you have to see if it can be improved.

If you are on a budget and not able to replace your furniture, you may be able to improve its appearance for little cost. Timber tables and chairs can be given a new lease of life with a lick of paint. A colourful outdoor cloth will conceal an unattractive table, while outdoor cushions can make old chairs look beautiful and feel comfortable.

If you want to give your garden an instant lift, add some accessories. An ornament, rug or wall hanging can add a splash of colour and individuality to your space, creating a homely feel.

For an environmentally friendly way to achieve a unique look, consider second-hand or upcycled items. There are many stunning salvage antiques out there, which can be repurposed for the garden: from cast iron baths to stone statues. Many people create stunning garden pieces using reclaimed materials. Local man Peter Willows makes planters using offcuts from our decking, donating all the profits to charity.

The good news for the reluctant gardener is that untidy gardens are great for wildlife! However, if you want your garden to look stunning but also welcoming to birds, bees and butterflies, consider creating a natural space. This could be a patch of lawn that you do not mow. Allowing the grass to grow and sowing some wildflower seeds will create a haven for bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects.

Simply adding a bird feeder and bird bath to your garden can improve your quality of life. For a minimal cost, you can enjoy spending time out on the deck watching the birds in the early morning or late on a summer’s evening. You can download a free guide, Welcome wildlife to your garden, from the RSPB for some good tips on making your garden more wildlife friendly.

Remember, you do not have to tackle the whole garden at once. Why not choose one area to focus on? A neglected corner of the garden, which offers a lovely view or catches the evening sun, could be the perfect place for a table and chairs. Add a few pots of colourful flowering plants and you can create a lovely space. The area immediately outside your back door could be ideal for growing a few culinary herbs. Or perhaps your garden deck could be given a new lease of life with a few accessories and a good clean. Start small and you can achieve big results.

If you do not yet have the budget to change your garden, tidying it up will make a difference. Check the borders for any weeds, prune overgrown plants and clear away anything that you no longer want in your garden.

Keeping your deck clean and free of debris will significantly enhance its appearance and performance. We recommend taking a few simple steps to maintain Gripsure’s non-slip decking. Give it a regular sweep with a stiff brush and clean it once a year with a pressure washer to remove ground in dirt or algae. After an afternoon spent weeding, clearing away any waste materials and sweeping your deck you can sit and relax, admiring the results of your hard work.

You don’t have to spend a fortune or replace everything to upgrade your garden. Making a few small changes can really add value to your home and help you and family enjoy more time outdoors.

A family garden should have something for everyone – and that includes a safe space for children to play. While many of us work hard to ensure our homes are child proof, we may not pay as much attention to our outdoor spaces. Of course, every child is different and their needs change as they grow. However, there are a few key areas to focus on if you want to create a safe family garden.

Choosing surfaces is one of the biggest decisions if you are planning to redesign your garden. There are three major considerations when selecting the best surface for your family garden:

• How do you want to use the space?Are you planning a seated area that could be used for outdoor dining, or do you need somewhere for children or grandchildren to run around?
• What are the potential hazards?
  For babies or toddlers, loose gravel or chippings could be a choking hazard. Children can easily slip on wet decking, while uneven paving creates trip hazards for little feet.
• How much time do you have?
  While a lawn can be a great place for children to play, it does require a considerable amount of maintenance. If you are short on time, a hard surface such as a deck may be more practical as it will involve far less upkeep.

Decking can be a great option for a family garden. It’s low maintenance and ideal for prams, scooters and trikes. Unfortunately, traditional decking gets horribly slippery when wet. That means your garden may be a no-go area in rainy weather, which is a major problem if you have lively children or grandchildren who need to let off steam. That’s why Gripsure non-slip decking, such as Home or Contemporary, is ideally suited to a family garden. You can achieve the aesthetic of a natural timber surface without the risk of slips. It’s also suitable for barefoot use and proven to be paw friendly so children and pets can happily pad around.

Playing outdoors is a great way for children to learn about taking appropriate risks. Of course, every parent has a different view on this. However, there are a few common garden hazards that should be removed or hidden from children.

• Ponds and water features
  Ponds are a great garden feature if you want to attract wildlife. Sadly, however, they are also a serious hazard for young children. If you have a pond or pool in your garden, you should never leave young children unsupervised because of the risk of drowning.
• Chemicals
  You may be surprised by how many toxic substances are lurking in your shed. Most garden pesticides and fertilisers are poisonous to both animals and humans. Remove any chemicals you do not want to keep and install a lock on any outbuildings or sheds.
• Garden tools
  From lawnmowers and strimmers to ladders and loppers, the tools we use in the garden can prove very dangerous if they get into the wrong hands. Keep garden tools safely locked away and do not leave them unattended when children are playing outdoors.

A family garden can inspire a lifelong appreciation of nature. Getting young children involved in growing plants can be enormously rewarding. From holding a sunflower competition to harvesting strawberries and runner beans, there are many great ways for children to enjoy plants.

There are so many benefits to gardening that it makes sense to include a range of child-friendly plants in your family garden. After all, you might inspire your children or grandchildren to become passionate gardeners in the future. However, it is important to know what is growing in your garden. In particular, are any of the plants toxic? The RHS has some useful advice to help you identify any potentially poisonous plants.

Creating a family garden means thinking about everyone’s needs. One way to achieve this is to split your garden into defined spaces for different purposes. That could give you a safe area for young children to play, somewhere for older kids to run around and perhaps even a quiet spot for parents to enjoy a few moments peace.

You can create divisions between zones using planting or features such as archways or pergolas. Installing different surfaces will also clearly define your areas. Of course, space will be a factor and a larger garden will give you more options. However, even a small family garden could feature a lawn (for children to run around) and a decked area (for outdoor dining), for example.

While you may need to take some key steps to childproof your garden, every family is different. You may have family members with specific needs which means you need to consider accessibility, for example. Your priorities will also change as your children or grandchildren grow. While younger kids need constant supervision, older children will appreciate having some independence and space of their own.

The best family garden is the one that is right for you and your loved ones. That may be a beautiful and well-manicured garden with plenty of space for relaxing. Or, it could be somewhere to play football and ride bikes. If you think about the changing needs and interests of everyone in the family you can’t go far wrong.

Why not also consider ways to inject some of your family’s unique personalities into the garden? Here are a few ideas:

• Paint a fence in a child’s favourite colour
• Bring back memories of a family holiday by choosing plants from the location
• Give your children pots to paint or top with shells from the beach
• You could even create a deck that’s unique to your family with Gripsure’s DeckArt range This non-slip decking features a range of designs to celebrate your individuality

Every family is different but we think every family deserves to get the most out of their space.

The last few months have proved the value of our outdoor spaces. As we prepare to socialise and entertain outdoors over the coming months, having a dining area in your garden will be more important than ever. The unpredictable British climate means that, even in the summer, rain can spoil an outdoor gathering. And while many people invite friends and family over for al fresco meals to make the most of warm, sunny days, our gardens are generally underused in the autumn and winter. However, with a bit of extra thought, you can create an all-year-round outdoor dining area to enjoy in almost any weather.

If you are planning a new outdoor dining area, location is a good place to start. Think about the practicalities of accessing the space from your house, both for you and your guests. Will you really want to navigate steps or a steep slope if you are carrying crockery and food? If you are cooking indoors, you may need to plan your al fresco dining space near to your house.

How much sun will the area typically get at the time of day you want to use it? Is it sheltered from the wind? If you want to bask in the late afternoon or early evening sun, you will need a spot that does not get shady towards the end of the day. You may also want to consider whether your space will be overlooked by neighbours and if it offers the best view of your garden.

The surface for your outdoor dining area is an important decision. If you want to use the space all year round, you will need to choose a landscaping material that is safe when the ground is wet. That is why non-slip decking is a great solution: it does not get slippery, even in wet or icy conditions.There are many different anti-slip decking options, depending on your budget and the look and feel you want to achieve. Think about whether a grooved or smooth deck, light or dark wood will best suit your dream aesthetic.

Great options for outdoor dining areas include our decking kits, which are really quick and easy to install, helping you create a new space in your garden with minimal fuss. Decking tiles are also a popular choice, particularly for anyone with a small garden or who is building a deck on a roof terrace or balcony.

The market for garden furniture has exploded in the last year and there is more choice than ever before. While budget is likely to be a factor, you will also need to decide on the right style for your outdoor dining area. You might aim for a clean, contemporary design for your modern space. Or, perhaps something more traditional will perfectly complement your cottage garden.And, of course, you will have to consider who will use the furniture. Will you be entertaining friends and extended family or do you just need seating for your own household? What will be most comfortable and practical option for children and anyone with mobility issues?

There are, of course, many different materials used in garden furniture, including plastic, aluminium and timber. At Gripsure we are passionate about sustainability and our impact on the environment. If you share our ethos, you will want to ensure your new timber garden furniture meets the industry flagship standards of FSC or PEFC. These certifications guarantee that the wood was taken from forests that are managed responsibly in relation to the environment, wildlife and people.

Preparing food in your garden means you can enjoy even more of the benefits of outdoor living. If you are planning on cooking outdoors, you will need to think about what will best meet your needs for the type of food you plan to prepare. A simple charcoal barbecue may suffice, while more serious cooks might want to invest in a wood fired outdoor oven.

If you plan to regularly cook outdoors you could consider a full blown garden kitchen. That will involve creating a practical space to prepare food. This could be a simple trolley with a stainless steel surface or a more ambitious set-up including fixed units, a tiled backsplash and its own water supply. Home and garden magazine Livingetc has some great tips and ideas. If you are planning an outdoor kitchen, installing decking could simplify your project as you can run services from the house under the deck.

While we might dream of balmy days enjoying barbecues with our friends and families, the reality is often different. If you want to enjoy your al fresco dining area all year round, you will need to protect it from the elements.

Options for garden covers range from simple and relatively affordable gazebos and retractable awnings to timber or metal pergolas and even garden igloos. Some people take it a step further and erect a small building, such as a summer house. If this is something you’re considering, you might be inspired by a project Gripsure completed for the installation of a luxury garden room, from Barbecue Lodge.

Once you have worked out the location, chosen the landscaping material and decided on furniture and cooking equipment, it’s time to think about those finishing touches. Accessories and lighting can completely transform an outdoor space. To make your area complete, an outdoor rug and beautiful weather-proof cushions will help create a welcoming, cosy ambience, whatever the weather. If you will be entertaining after dark, you will need to decide how to illuminate your outdoor dining area. Lighting can create a truly enchanting atmosphere and is, of course, also crucial for safety. Festoon lights create a magical party ambience, while a solar powered table lamp will give your dining space that intimate feel of a garden room. The Society of Garden Designers has some useful advice on lighting an outdoor space.

Planting is a crucial element of any outdoor space. If you are a keen gardener you can really have fun dreaming up creative and ambitious planting schemes for your new space. Your choice of plants could, for example, give your outdoor dining space an exotic, traditional English or Mediterranean feel. If you are short on time or lack green fingers, the RHS has some great tips on low-maintenance gardens. The key is to focus on year-round interest if you want your outdoor dining space to look good in the autumn and winter.

Whether your project is ambitious or simple, taking time to think about your wants and needs will help you create an outdoor dining area to enjoy quality time with family and friends, all year round.