Protecting your outdoor furniture is important for maintaining its beauty and extending its lifespan. With some simple steps, you can shield your outdoor pieces from the elements and keep them looking their best. Here are tips for protecting different types of outdoor furniture materials.
Wood Furniture
Wood patio furniture requires some extra care to prevent cracking, splintering, and discoloration. Here are some ways to protect wood furniture outdoors:
Use Weather-Resistant Woods
Opt for naturally weather-resistant wood varieties like teak, eucalyptus, cypress, and redwood. These dense woods contain oils that help repel water. Avoid porous woods like pine that easily absorb moisture and warp.
Apply Protective Finishes
Coat wood furniture with marine varnish or spar urethane to seal the grain from moisture. Reapply the finish every year or when it starts looking dull. Penetrating oil finishes like tung oil also help repel water while allowing the wood to breathe.
Clean and Dry Properly
Wipe down wood furniture after every use. Allow the wood to dry completely before covering or storing. Trapped moisture can cause mildew and splits.
Use Furniture Covers
For long-term protection, cover wood pieces with weather-resistant furniture covers. Look for covers made of vinyl, polyester or olefin that are waterproof yet breathable.
Store Indoors
When not in use for extended periods, store wood furniture in a dry garage or shed. Keeping wood completely shielded from the elements will maximize its lifespan.
Wicker and Rattan Furniture
Wicker and rattan furniture add tropical flair to outdoor spaces. But their woven construction also needs protection from heavy rain, strong sun and wind. Try these tips:
Clean Regularly
Dirt and debris that get caught in wicker can abrade the finish. Hose down wicker to remove dirt buildup. Use a gentle soap and soft brush for more stubborn grime.
Add Water Repellant
Spray wicker with a silicone water repellent to prevent moisture absorption. Reapply 2-3 times per year for the best protection.
Limit Sun Exposure
Fading and discoloration can happen when wicker sits in direct sunlight all day. Place rattan furniture in a shaded area or use a UV-reflective cover when not in use.
Secure Cushions
Prevent cushions from blowing away in high winds by storing them indoors when not in use. Or use cushion ties to firmly secure the cushions to the frame.
Bring Indoors
For maximum longevity, store wicker furniture inside a shed or garage during rainy, snowy, or cold weather. Prolonged moisture exposure can cause mildew.
Plastic Furniture
Plastic outdoor furniture is highly durable, affordable, and requires little maintenance. But it still needs some periodic care for best results:
Wash Regularly
Over time, plastic can accumulate dirt, pollen, and environmental debris. Hose down plastic furniture and use a mild soap solution to keep it clean. Avoid harsh detergents.
Avoid Abrasives
Don’t use abrasive brushes or scouring pads, which can scratch the plastic surface. Opt for soft rags, sponges or soft-bristle brushes.
Add UV Protection
To prevent discoloration and damage from sunlight, spray plastic furniture with a UV-protectant spray. Reapply according to package directions.
Avoid Pool Chemicals
Position plastic patio sets away from swimming pools. The chemicals can potentially degrade and discolor plastic over time. Rinse off any pool water splash immediately.
Store Clean and Dry
Before storing plastic furniture, allow it to dry fully to prevent mildew growth. Cover cleanly dried sets with a waterproof cover or tarp.
Metal Furniture
Metal furniture like aluminum, wrought iron, and steel is highly durable for outdoor use. But it still requires some care and maintenance:
Clean Regularly
Dirt, debris, and water spots can accumulate on metal furniture. Hose down regularly and use a mild detergent to remove stuck-on grime. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Apply Protective Coating
Sealing metal furniture with a clear automotive wax or marine varnish will help resist rust and corrosion. Reapply 1-2 times per year.
Avoid Pool Chemicals
Position metal furniture away from swimming pool areas. The chemicals in pool water can potentially cause corrosion and damage over time.
Touch Up Paint
Use touch-up paint to cover any scrapes or exposed metal spots. Match the original color as closely as possible for the best results.
Store Clean and Dry
Allow metal pieces to dry fully before covering or storing away for winter or bad weather. Mildew can grow on trapped moisture.
Outdoor Cushions
Outdoor cushions add comfort but require some extra protection from the elements:
Use Water-Resistant Fabrics
Look for cushion covers made of solution-dyed acrylic or polyester fabric. These synthetic fibers resist fading, mildew, and stains better than cotton.
Remove Cushions When Wet
Take cushions inside when not in use during rainy weather. Store indoors overnight rather than leaving them damp outside.
Allow Proper Drying
If cushions do get wet, stand them on end and allow to dry completely before putting covers back on. Never store damp.
Use UV-Resistant Fabric
Sun exposure can fade and degrade cushion fabric over time. Opt for fabrics with UV-stabilizers or use UV-reflective covers.
Clean Regularly
Brush off cushions frequently and use mild soap and water to spot clean. This prevents dirt and debris from becoming embedded.
Umbrellas
Umbrellas provide cooling shade but the folding mechanisms and fabric require seasonal maintenance:
Clean Canopy
Use a garden hose, mild detergent, and soft sponge or cloth to remove stuck-on dirt and mildew from vinyl canopies. Allow to dry fully open before closing.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Apply marine lubricant or silicone spray to the pulleys and hinges that allow the umbrella to open and close. This prevents rust and seized mechanisms.
Secure From Wind
Weigh down the umbrella stand with bricks or patio pavers to keep it from blowing over on windy days. Or take umbrellas down when not in use.
Store Properly
After cleaning and drying the canopy, close the umbrella and secure the ties. Store flat and undercover during harsh weather or winter.
Repair Rips
Use a patch kit to mend small vinyl canopy tears before they worsen. For larger rips, re-cover the frame with new canopy fabric.
General Tips
- Inspect furniture regularly for signs of wear, damage, or needed repairs. Address issues promptly to avoid further deterioration.
- Cover furniture with weather-resistant fabrics when not in use for extended periods.
- Wipe away spills and standing water quickly to prevent discoloration.
- Position furniture away from sprinklers and irrigation overspray which can leave mineral deposits.
- Place furniture on outdoor pads or pavers to minimize ground contact and raise up from wet grass.
- Re-stain or re-seal wooden furniture annually to protect the finish from weathering.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads which can damage finishes.
- Check furniture feet and floor glides for tightness. Tighten hardware if needed.
- Keep outdoor furniture out of extremely windy, cold, snowy or icy conditions which can cause damage.
With some diligent care and maintenance, your outdoor furniture can stay looking beautiful season after season! Let this guide help you implement protective measures to get the most enjoyment from your outdoor living space.