How to Care for Your Outdoor Furniture in the Winter
- January 18, 2018
- Michelle Queen Web Designer
- 0 Comment
It’s easy to forget about your outdoor deck or patio furniture during the winter when it gets less use. Unfortunately, snow and ice can wreak havoc on your outdoor furniture, forcing you to spend money on repairing or replacing the damaged pieces. Taking the steps to properly care for your metal, wood, and other outdoor furniture will help prevent damage, mold, and mildew this winter.
Metal Outdoor Furniture
Rust and corrosion are your metal outdoor furnitures’ biggest risks, especially in the winter. Wet weather and salty walkways are the perfect combination for rust to build up in corners and can weaken the material.
It’s best to clean and store your metal furniture in a dry place during the winter. If you plan to leave your metal furniture outside during the winter, take some time to coat it with a silicone-based sealant.
Wood Outdoor Furniture
Most natural materials can rot or grow mildew if left to the elements, and moisture trapped in the wood can freeze and weaken the structure. Clean and rinse your wood furniture thoroughly before winter weather sets in to prevent mold and mildew growth. Touch up the paint or apply a specialty oil or varnish designed to protect your furniture against moisture and harsh temperatures.
Wicker Outdoor Furniture
At the end of the season, brush your wicker furniture with a water-bleach solution, then rinse thoroughly and let dry. Wicker will rot easily under ice and snow, so it’s best to store your wicker furniture indoors in a dry place. This is also a good time to freshen the paint or varnish.
Outdoor Fabrics
If your outdoor cushions have washable covers, wash and store them between uses. Certain outdoor fabrics can be cleaned and coated with a fabric sealant to prevent the buildup of mold and mildew. Any cushions with foam interiors should be stored in a dry place.
Plastic Outdoor Furniture
Plastic doesn’t have the same issues with snow and ice as other materials, but extreme cold can make the plastic brittle, which can lead to cracks. Store your plastic furniture indoors if possible, and clean it off with a mild detergent or a bleach and water solution to prevent mildew.
The quality and craftsmanship of your furniture can determine how well it will stand up to harsh winter conditions. When buying your outdoor furniture, choosing high quality pieces can save you hundreds in repairs and replacements. Contact Affiliated Importers today to learn how we can help you find the pieces you’re looking for.
