when bundled up outdoor furniture set is huddled together against the snowflakes. We all know that cold weather tends to put a stop to the fun and flair of many activities, so can the same be said for outdoor furniture? Can it survive being left out in the winter elements, or should we cover up outdoor pieces until they're ready for use again come springtime? Well, before answering those pressing questions, you should consider how harsh of an environment you live in and what materials are used most commonly amongst your favourite patio furnishings. Read on for more information about why (and why not) this might be something worth considering!
For starters, it's important to note that certain materials are more resistant to winter weather elements than others. For example, furniture made of aluminium or plastic is less likely to suffer any real damage due to snow, ice, or extremely cold temperatures. These pieces may require an extra layer of protection with a cover (especially if they are cushioned), but they are generally quite durable in the face of wintery weather.
On the other hand, furniture made of natural materials like wicker, teak, or wood will require a bit more TLC when it comes to being left out in the snow and icy temperatures. Wicker and teak can be treated with a sealant to help protect them from moisture damage, but these pieces should be stored away in a shed or garage if the temperatures get too extreme. Wood can also be stained and sealed for protection, though it's important to note that most woods are not suitable for outdoor use in temperatures below -20F (-29C).
Finally, don't forget to consider the type of climate you live in when deciding if your outdoor furniture should stay out or be put away for the winter. For example, those living in northern climates will likely need to store their furniture a bit longer than those who live in temperate regions. Additionally, households with pets may want to move their furniture inside as animals tend to scratch and chew on outdoor pieces.
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Survival Secrets for Your Outdoor Furniture: How to Protect It From Winter Elements
No matter what type of material your outdoor furniture is made from, there are a few tips and tricks to help keep it lasting through the winter months.
Here's what you need to know:
- Cover everything up: Covering cushioned furniture with heavy-duty waterproof covers will help protect them against moisture damage. Also, ensure that any cover you use is breathable so moisture can escape.
- Clean things off Before covering up furniture, be sure to wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may stick around and cause damage over time.
- Give it some air: Make sure there's plenty of room for air to circulate around and underneath the furniture. This will help prevent mould and mildew from forming during the winter months.
- Reapply sealant or paint: If you have natural wooden furniture, it's a good idea to reapply a sealant every year. This will help protect against moisture damage and keep your wood looking beautiful for years to come.
- Store it away: If the temperatures get too extreme or you're concerned about damage, store your outdoor furniture indoors until springtime.
What Outdoor Furniture Can Be Left Out in the Winter
The best outdoor furniture to leave out in the winter is made from naturally weather-resistant materials. Metal furniture like aluminium or steel is an excellent option as it won't suffer any damage due to cold temperatures, snow, or ice. You may also consider wicker and teak pieces that have been treated with a sealant for extra protection.
Natural stone furniture is porous and can be damaged by freezing temperatures. Water can seep in through the stone and cause it to crack as it freezes, with the only solution to repair the furniture being to replace it entirely. For this reason, it is best to move stone furniture indoors or provide it with extra protection, such as a tarp or waterproof cover.
Wood furniture can also suffer from winter weather, as water can easily seep into the wood, causing it to rot or warp-especially if it is untreated. To prevent this from occurring, treat your wooden furniture with a waterproof sealant to protect it from the elements. This will also help prevent fading, cracking, and other weather-related damage.
Leather and fabric items like cushions and seat covers should be brought inside during winter. These materials can become stiff and brittle in cold temperatures, making them unable to be returned to their original condition.
Related Reading: Where can the Outdoor Furniture Set Be Placed?
Wrought iron and plastic furniture can both handle winter weather, though you may want to consider bringing them indoors or covering them with a tarp when it snows. This will help keep them from becoming discoloured or damaged.
When it comes to wooden furniture, it's best to only leave out pieces that have been treated with a sealant and are designed for outdoor use in temperatures below -20F (-29C). If you're unsure about the temperature your furniture can handle, store it away until the weather warms up.
The Benefits Of Keeping Outdoor Furniture Outside In The Winter
Though it's important to take the necessary precautions to protect outdoor furniture from winter weather, there are also some benefits to leaving furniture out year-round. If you live in a mild climate where temperatures rarely dip below freezing, outdoor furniture can be left outside all year round. For example, outdoor dining sets, sofa sets, and couch sets can be left out to enjoy the beautiful winter views from your patio or backyard. Additionally, leaving furniture outside can help reduce clutter in your home and make it much easier to clean up after outdoor activities.
Doing so helps reduce the amount of storage space needed and eliminates the hassle of moving furniture in and out each season. Taking the time to make sure your outdoor furniture is properly protected from the elements can save you time and money in the long run.
All in all, whether you choose to keep your furniture out or store it away for the winter depends entirely on your climate and the type of materials used in its design. Taking the time to check for weather resistance and applying sealants or covers when necessary can help ensure that your outdoor furniture stays in great shape, no matter what the weather brings. With proper care and maintenance, your outdoor furniture can last for many years.