How to Protect Your Outdoor Furniture During the Winter

The cold, harsh winter weather can wreak havoc on your outdoor furniture. That’s why it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your furniture during the winter months and ensure that it stays in great condition. Read on for some helpful tips on keeping your outdoor furniture protected during the winter.

Outdoor Furniture Challenges in Winter

Some homeowners may wonder, is it really that bad to leave your furniture outside during the winter? It can be. Depending on the type and material of your furniture, winter weather can cause significant damage to your furniture and can considerably shorten its lifespan. Here are a few common challenges that outdoor furniture may encounter during winter:

• Moisture. Winter moisture from rain, sleet, or snow can pose a significant threat to some types of furniture. Wicker and wood, for example, are especially prone to mold and rot when exposed to too much moisture. Moisture may also harm furniture cushions.
• Wildlife. Animals that are more active during the winter months might cause harm to your furniture. It may be chewed by squirrels or insects, and it’s possible that spiders will make their home there.
• Winter Storms. Flimsy furniture can be blown around by strong winter storms. Plastic, wicker, resin, and aluminum are all lightweight materials that can be destroyed or fly into your home during a harsh storm.

Needless to say, it’s definitely in your best interest to winterize your outdoor furniture to make sure it stays safe.

Tips for Protecting Your Outdoor Furniture

Use Furniture Covers

If your patio furniture must be left outside throughout the winter, consider purchasing furniture covers to keep the moisture away. Covers will pay for themselves by increasing the lifespan of your outdoor furniture. Plus, they are also beneficial for keeping the rain away in the summer.

When buying a furniture cover, be sure to select one that is made with a breathable fabric and has mesh vents. Ideally, the cover should also have 1 to 22 inches of space between the bottom hem and the ground. This will increase air circulation and allow moisture to escape faster.

Waterproof Tarps

If you’re looking for a less expensive solution, waterproof tarps are also effective at keeping water away from your furniture. However, tarps can have problems with ventilation, and water will be unable to evaporate if it gets inside. For this reason, it’s crucial to make sure your tarp is tightly secured to your furniture. Additionally, to keep the tarp from flying away during severe wings, attach it with bungee cords or rope. If your tarp is too loose, it might catch the wind and fly away or knock over your furniture.

When in Doubt, Store It Indoors

Of course, the safest option when it comes to protecting your outdoor furniture is to store it indoors. Whether it’s in a garage, storage shed, or basement, keeping your furniture inside is the only way to guarantee that it stays safe and damage-free during the winter months. While it may take some time to haul all of your furniture indoors, it’ll be well worth it in the long run. No matter what type of outdoor furniture you have, keeping it protected during the winter months will help it to last for years to come. If you’re looking for some new outdoor furniture, check out our selection at King’s Impressions today!