Bringing the indoors out is a popular theme for backyard decor these days. In some regions, this possibility only exists for a few months each year. Not so in Las Vegas where the outdoor living trend is possible nearly year round. This opportunity for enjoyment makes your patio or courtyard a high traffic area, which in turns calls for a high traffic flooring solution.

Leaving things au naturel tends to produce a dusty mess that results in the unwelcome intrusion of more outdoor dirt than you might like. Grass requires tons of maintenance and isn’t a very water smart solution in the desert environment of Las Vegas. Traditional pavers or cement patios retain enough heat to drive you back indoors. The more comfortable cool decking can prove costly and is not always as durable as expected. So what does that leave?

The answer is outdoor carpeting. The image of ugly, plastic astroturf that you are probably now conjuring up is actually nothing like the stylish, durable high traffic area options available today. In fact, if you have any of the old-timey green/blue stuff glued to your patio, go out and remove it this instant! Then invest in one of these newer looks.

• Manufactured and designed for weathering the elements, marine grade carpeting comes in a variety of patterns and styles. This highest grade of marine carpet can be somewhat costly, but it is probably worth the dollars if your laying it near a pool, spa, or other area that gets moisture regularly or if you want a plusher feel and longer life than many other outdoor carpet choices.
• Outdoor carpet tiles can be an easier, more economical alternative to premium marine grade carpeting. They’re made in a variety of fibers and styles and are easy to install and maintain. If your high traffic area gets heavier use in one particular spot, you can change out individual tiles as needed.
• Many fashionable and durable area rugs can be found online or at local home stores. There are options to suit every budget. A big advantage to this choice is that when you tire of one style or your rug has reached the end of its life span, it’s easy to just pick it up and swap it out for a new look. Even though Las Vegas climate isn’t harsh in terms of rain and snow, intense sun and winds combined with high traffic area conditions can still take a toll, so area rugs left outdoors may last only one full season.
• Carpets make of natural fibers such as jute, bamboo, or cork can work outdoors; however, they will eventually succumb to the elements. For a material that withstands the outdoors better, lasts longer, and isn’t terribly expensive, go for a 100 percent (that includes backing and trim) polypropylene rug. This synthetic material is waterproof and nonabsorbent, meaning spills should clean up easily.

If you do desire a grass-type carpet for a putting green or pool deck, there are newer fibers and fresher styles on the market today that can complement your yard without bearing any resemblance to the versions of yeasteryear. No matter which type or style of outdoor carpet you choose, the results will be a soft, cool surface that functions well in a high traffic areas and helps you make the most of the many opportunities for enjoying an indoors out lifestyle in your Las Vegas backyard.

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