When you buy patio furniture, you want it to last. But even the sturdiest furniture can succumb to weather damage if it’s not properly cared for. So, what can you do to protect your patio furniture from rain, snow, and sunshine?
The answer may surprise you: a lot! With just a little bit of TLC, your patio furniture can last for many years.
Is Patio Furniture Waterproof?
Many patio furniture materials, such as wicker, wood, and metal, are naturally waterproof or come in waterproof versions. However, even these types of furniture can become damaged if exposed for a long period of time, so waterproofing your outdoor furniture is a great way to protect it from water damage.
Here are a few tips on how to care for your patio furniture so that it withstands the elements:
Cover it up: One of the best ways to protect your patio furniture is to cover it up when you’re not using it. This will shield it from rain, snow, and UV damage. If you don’t have a cover that’s specifically designed for patio furniture, any kind of tarp will do the trick. Just make sure to secure the tarp so that it doesn’t blow away in high winds.
I’ve had it a lot of times when I forget to tie down my patio covers and see them flying off into my neighbor’s backyard.
Wash it down: Another way to keep your patio furniture looking its best is to wash it down regularly with soap and water. This will remove any dirt or debris that could cause premature wear and tear.
To do this you just need a hose and a bucket of soapy water. Make sure to rinse it off afterward and dry it thoroughly with a towel or cloth. You can also use a mild bleach solution if your furniture is starting to look moldy or mildewed. Just be sure not to leave the bleach on for too long, as this could damage the fabric or metal.
Add weather-resistant sealant: If your patio furniture isn’t waterproof, or if you want to add an extra layer of protection, consider applying a weather-resistant sealant. This will help prevent moisture from getting trapped inside the material, which can cause mold and mildew to grow.
There are many different types of sealant available at your local hardware store, so you should be able to find one that works for your particular type of patio furniture. Just make sure to read the instructions carefully before applying it so that you don’t damage your furniture by using too much.
Store it indoors: If you have the space then you should consider storing your patio furniture indoors during the winter. This will prolong its lifespan significantly.
If you don’t have room to store your furniture indoors, consider investing in a storage shed or other type of weather-resistant storage unit. If you have any fabric around outdoor cushions or pillows, be sure to bring those indoors as well.
Why Patio Furniture Isn’t Always Waterproof
One of the main reasons why patio furniture isn’t always waterproof is because of the materials it’s made from. For example, wicker and rattan are two popular materials for patio furniture.
Unfortunately, both of these materials are quite porous and therefore prone to absorbing water. So, if you have wicker or rattan furniture on your patio, it’s important to make sure that it’s properly sealed and protected from the elements.
Another reason why patio furniture might not be waterproof is because of the way it’s constructed. For instance, many chairs and benches have cushions that are filled with foam or other absorbent materials.
These cushions can quickly become soaked through if they’re left out in the rain or if someone accidentally spills a drink on them. As such, it’s important to store cushions indoors or in a dry, protected area when they’re not in use.
Should you cover patio furniture every night?
If you have patio furniture, chances are you want to keep it in good shape for as long as possible. One of the best ways to do that is by covering it up every night.
Let’s look at a few reasons why covering your patio furniture is a good idea.
1. Coverage protects against the elements.
One of the main reasons to cover your patio furniture is to protect it against the elements. Whether it’s snow, rain, or sun, exposure to the elements can cause damage to your furniture. By covering it up at night, you can help prolong its life.
2. It guards against pests.
Another reason to cover your patio furniture is to guard against pests. Outdoor furniture can attract all kinds of critters, from squirrels and raccoons to spiders and ants. By covering it up, you can help keep these pests away from your furniture.
3. It keeps your furniture clean.
Lastly, covering your patio furniture can help keep it clean. If you live in an area with a lot of pollen or dust, covering your furniture can help prevent it from getting covered in grime.
The Cons of Covering Your Patio Furniture Every Night
Of course, there are also a few downsides to covering your patio furniture every night. The most obvious is that it’s one more thing on your to-do list. If you’re already busy with work and family obligations, the last thing you want to do is add another chore to your list.
Another potential downside is that covers can actually trap moisture against your furniture, which can lead to mildew and mold growth. If you live in an area with high humidity levels or if it rains frequently, this is something to consider.
Conclusion
Waterproofing your outdoor furniture is a great way to protect it from the elements and prolong its life. Whether you choose to store your furniture indoors or invest in a storage unit, covering it every night is an important step in maintaining its quality.
There are however also some potential downsides to consider, such as the extra time and effort required to cover it every night.
What you decide to do boils down to the specific needs of your patio furniture. Whether you choose to cover it every night or leave it exposed, taking proper care of your outdoor furniture is key to ensuring that you get many years of use out of it.
