Outdoor furniture is not just trendy, but functional and practical, which is no surprise that it’s become more and more popular. As the seasons change, it is vital to protect your outdoor furniture from the elements.
Here are some general care tips to make sure your furniture is protected come Winter:
Waterproofing your wooden furniture
Wooden furniture has a classic, traditional look to it. Cleaning your furniture may be the start, make sure you keep it clean by wiping and cleaning any residue. Wood generally has a long lifespan and can withstand most conditions.
Waterproofing it will extend that lifespan. There are a wide variety of wood products on the market which may be helpful in protecting your wood furniture.
- Wood sealer offers a water-repellent finish while creating a protective seal layer on the furniture
- Wood paint covers the wood with a coloured finish, you may even use an opaque finish paint to add colour to the wood.
- Wood waterproofer acts and prevents water absorption, while also making the wood remain breathable.
Image Credit: Unsplash
Waterproofing outdoor fabric
Fabric can get dirty with regular use and may fade from the sun. If you want to maintain your bright or white shades, keep your favourite fabric items under a shade or umbrella. Most outdoor cushions help make seating more comfortable, and they can also create new seating options.
Outdoor hammocks and other fabric-based furniture are often made from outdoor-friendly fabric. If you want to keep them long-lasting, you can use a waterproofing spray. When using waterproofing sprays be sure to properly coat the fabric, and let it dry completely before applying a second coat.
Image Credit: Unsplash
Protecting outdoor metal
Metal is prone to rusting, so making sure it stays protected is vital. Water and metal generally do not mix, finish it with layers of clear varnish, paint, or a durable powder coating. Painting the metal surface is one of the simplest and cheapest ways of preventing your metal furniture from degrading from the sun’s harmful rays.
The paint will provide a protective barrier between the metal surface and the harmful weather on your furniture. To ensure that your metal furniture withstands weather keep an eye out for any rust spots or areas where the paint is peeling.
By following these tips you help extend the longevity and beauty of your backyard by waterproofing outdoor furniture.
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Originally published in Garden&Home Magazine
