When you have outdoor furniture, they have to endure the constant barrage of elements ranging from sweltering summer heat and rainstorms. If you live in an area with freezing winters, your furniture bears the cold and ice.
If you want your outdoor furniture to survive the elements better, it would be best to select materials capable of enduring harsh weather and temperature changes. You can, later on, invest in good-quality covers and storage to protect the cushions and pillows.
Here are several valuable measures to prolong the lifespan of your outdoor furniture.
Invest In Outdoor Furniture Made Of Waterproof Materials
When investing in Outdoor Furniture, consider looking for materials that can withstand humidity and rain. Some materials to consider include concrete composite, weatherproof galvanized steel, or synthetic wicker and teak.
If you prefer wood for your outdoor furniture, acacia wood is ideal for outdoor conditions, but it requires more maintenance than metal-based variants. One way to maintain the appearance of acacia furniture is to provide it with a cover to cut down exposure to excess moisture.
Keep Your Outdoor Furniture Clean
Regardless of the type of outdoor furniture you have, regular cleaning should be a priority if you want them to look fantastic and functional for years to come.
If you have weatherproof metal furniture, it’s low maintenance but would require wiping it down with soapy water now and then.
Apply a penetrating oil cleaner to keep the moisture out for hardwood furniture. Regular application will ensure your outdoor furniture will last longer.
For outdoor wicker furniture, it would require spraying down with water and a soft brush with soap to clean all spaces and crevices. Dry it under the sun after cleaning to prevent mold or mildew from forming.
If you have cushions, it’s crucial to keep them along with their covers clean. One way to make them last longer is to thoroughly clean and allow them to dry completely before storing.
Cover Your Outdoor Furniture
Investing in durable covers for your outdoor furniture will effectively protect them from the elements.
Depending on the outdoor furniture you have, it’s best to use a water-resistant or waterproof cover if you’re going to leave them outside for some time. If you want your outdoor furniture to last, using covers is essential.
When selecting the suitable covers for your furniture, consider getting superior-quality ones, especially those with double-stitch to last longer. Don’t forget to ensure adequate airflow below your cover to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Apply A Protectant To Your Outdoor Furniture
The application of a protectant would come in handy in keeping your furniture in good shape for years to come.
When you have aluminum or metal furniture, you can protect it from the elements by applying a coat of paste wax. If you see signs of rust, you need to remove it first, apply a primer, and paint before adding the paste wax as the last layer.
A patio in the tropics with brown rattan furniture and orange cushions
For plastic furniture, prolonged exposure to the sun will result in fading. Apply a protectant coating to prevent fading due to constant exposure to the sun. The protectant works similarly to sunscreen and prevents the plastic from fading and cracking.
As for wooden outdoor furniture, consider sealing the wood with a layer of polyurethane. It works by protecting the wood from sun exposure while also bringing out the natural beauty of the wood. If you’re going to use one, make sure it has UV blockers.
Don’t forget to apply lubricant on the hinges and wheels. Use a silicone lubricant to prevent rust formation and minimize any squeaks with hinges and heavy-duty wheels on any furniture.
Keep Cushions And Pillows In Good Shape
Most outdoor pillows and cushions are highly durable and resist fading. Those suitable for outdoor use usually contain fillers that resist mold and mildew.
Regular maintenance is the key if you want your cushions and pillows to last. You can easily clean them routinely by wiping them with a moist cloth.
Make sure to deal with any spills right away by using a solution of detergent and water. Gently brush the site using a soft-bristled brush and rinse thoroughly before allowing it to air dry.
Proper Storage
If you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s best to clean your outdoor furniture before storing them. Leaving out your outdoor furniture during the winter will expose it to constant water changes, which is undesirable in the long run.
If you want your furniture to last, consider giving them a thorough clean before storing it during the winter. Any lingering moisture and debris will allow mold or mildew to grow during the winter. This will cause your furniture to end up in poor shape by the time you’ll use them again during spring. Furniture made of wrought iron, wicker, plastic, or mesh requires cleaning with a dish soap solution.
To prevent any damage to your furniture while in storage, make sure you’ll use breathable covers or a dust cover.
Final Thoughts
When you provide your outdoor furniture with proper care and maintenance, they’ll last for a long time despite enduring the elements throughout the year. With the help of these valuable tips, such as regular cleaning, applying a protectant, or proper storage, they’ll greatly help in keeping your outdoor furniture in good shape for years to come.
