Winter months can be hard on outdoor furniture, causing it to become damaged and brittle. But with the right care and maintenance, you can protect your patio furniture during winter and ensure that it remains beautiful for years to come.
Here are 15 tips to help you extend the life of your outdoor furniture during the colder months.
1. Store Cushions Indoors:
If possible, store all cushions indoors when not in use as they absorb more moisture than other parts of the patio furniture set and will suffer more damage if left out.
2. Clean Furniture Before Storing:
Make sure you clean off all dirt and debris from your outdoor furniture before storing away for winter. A pressure washer is ideal for this task but you can also do a more thorough job with some soapy water and a sponge.
3. Cover Furniture:
Invest in some quality patio furniture covers for your outdoor furniture to keep it protected from the elements. The cover should be waterproof, mold resistant and UV protected for maximum protection.
4. Protect Metal Parts:
Metal parts of your patio furniture can rust or corrode over time if not properly protected during winter months. A layer of wax or varnish will help protect the metal from moisture and debris, while a coat of paint may also be necessary depending on the type of metal used in the set.
5. Paint Wood Furniture:
If you have wooden patio furniture, make sure to give it a few coats of paint or sealant before storing away. This will help protect it from moisture and keep it looking its best for years to come.
6. Elevate Furniture On Blocks:
Elevating furniture on blocks can help prevent moisture accumulation underneath and make the furniture more accessible if you need to move it during winter months.
7. Move Furniture Indoors:
If possible, try to bring all of your outdoor furniture indoors when not in use during winter months. This is the best way to ensure that your patio furniture remains undamaged until the warmer weather returns.
8. Re-Oil Wooden Pieces:
Wooden pieces require regular oiling throughout their lifetime to keep them in good condition, especially during winter months. Re-oil your outdoor furniture with good quality oil once or twice a year to ensure that it remains in top condition.
9. Clean Outdoor Furniture Regularly:
Regular cleaning of your patio furniture during winter months will help keep it looking its best and protect it from dirt and debris that can cause damage over time. A mild soap, warm water and soft cloth should do the trick for most pieces.
10. Wrap Cushions In Plastic:
If you are unable to store cushions indoors, wrap them in plastic before storing away for winter months as this will help protect them from moisture and dirt build up. Make sure to choose plastic sheeting specifically designed for outdoor use such as vinyl or tarpaulin.
11. Bring Furniture Under Cover:
If you don’t have the space to store your outdoor furniture indoors, try to bring it under a covered area such as a porch or patio cover. This will help protect it from snow and ice while also allowing air to circulate around the pieces.
12. Use Wood Protector:
If you have wooden outdoor furniture, make sure to use a wood protector before storing away for winter months. Look for one specifically designed for outdoor use as this will help protect against moisture and other elements that can cause damage over time.
13. Move Furniture Away From Trees:
It’s best to move your outdoor furniture away from any trees during winter months as sap and debris from the branches can cause staining and discoloration over time.
14. Check Furniture Regularly:
Make sure to check your outdoor furniture regularly during winter months for signs of damage or wear and tear. If you spot any issues, take the necessary steps to address them before storing away for the season.
15. Use Rust Inhibitor:
If you have any metal pieces in your patio furniture set, make sure to use a rust inhibitor on them before storing away for winter months. This will help protect against corrosion and keep your furniture looking its best during colder weather filmik.
Conclusion:
Taking the time to properly care for your outdoor furniture during winter months will help keep it looking its best and protect it from damage. Make sure to cover, clean, paint and elevate your patio furniture as well as move it away from trees and use a rust inhibitor on any metal pieces. By following these tips you can enjoy your outdoor furniture for many years to come!