Have you
ever wondered what a service patio is for, what measurements it has, or how you
can make the most of its functionality in your home? In this article, we offer
you detailed information about service patios, including ideas and tips so you
can make the most of this space in your home.
Learn more about: Architecture Features
What is a service yard?
A section
of the house called a service yard is intended for cleaning and maintenance
tasks, including laundry, tool storage, and storage of items that are not used
every day.
It can be
an open or enclosed area and is often located at the back of the house. The
utility yard is a room where many chores are performed; it often has a laundry
room, water heater, pump, gas tank, and cistern.
The ideal
position is adjacent to the kitchen and the ideal orientation is north, on the
side of the kitchen window. Because it will manage the utilities that will
serve the rest of the building, such as hot water (heating) and gas, it is
crucial to locate this area in an architectural design.
On the
floor plan, it is shown by a cross-designating of the Service Yard. This area
is also vacant and will not have a roof, except for the overhang that often
covers the laundry area and is indicated by a dotted line with irregular and
quality voussoirs.
What is a service yard for?
Service
patios have several functions, among which we highlight the following:
- A place to wash and dry clothes: The service patio usually has a washing machine, a dryer, and an area to hang clothes out in the sun.
- Storage: You can store tools, cleaning products, and other items that you do not need on a daily.
- Workspace: You can take advantage of the service patio to perform DIY or home maintenance tasks.
- Pet area: Some people use the service yard as a place for their pets to roam freely without causing clutter in the house.
Utility Yard Ideas
Here are
some ideas to help you get the most out of your service patio:
Organization and storage
- Install shelving and cabinets to keep items neat and handy.
- Use plastic boxes to store cleaning supplies, tools, and other items in an organized manner.
- Place hooks on the walls to hang brooms, mops, and other cleaning utensils.
Laundry and drying area
- Make sure you have enough space to install a washer and dryer, if necessary.
- Install a folding or retractable clothesline to make the most of the available space.
- Place a small sink for hand-washing delicate items or for cleaning items.
Workspace
- If you have enough space, set up a workbench for do-it-yourself tasks or home maintenance.
- Make sure you have good lighting and access to electrical outlets for your tools.
Pet Area
- If you decide to use the service yard as an area for your pets, set up a comfortable bed and toys to keep them entertained.
- Install a door with access to the outside so they can get in and out easily.
Tips for making the most of the service yard
Keep the
area clean and tidy for easy access to items and to make tasks faster and more
efficient.
Make the
most of natural light by installing windows or glass doors.
If space is
limited, consider installing folding or built-in furniture and appliances.
Use light,
neutral colors to give a feeling of spaciousness and lightness to the space.
In summary,
the service patio is a versatile and functional area in the home that can be of
great use if organized and used correctly. With the ideas and tips provided in
this article, you can make the most of this space and make your daily life more
comfortable and efficient.
