Your outdoor setting is often the unsung hero during the warmer months. If you haven’t experienced the joys of outdoor living, visit Domayne online for a great range of outdoor furniture and Garden Living Ideas. Your outdoor furniture survives sweaty bodies, food flung with reckless abandon and sharp clawed pets clamouring for pole position. Not even the baking sun can dissolve its will to keep you comfy. But what about when summer’s heat gives way to winters icy breath? During winter your outdoor furniture is more susceptible to damage and a nasty frost can destroy your favourite piece of furniture. How do you keep your outdoor furniture safe from harm this winter?
Keep it dry
Some materials are such as plastic and aluminium are more resistant to moisture, but it is still a good idea to keep your furniture in a dry space. Materials such as Wrought Iron are very prone to rusting and sometimes even a cover or tarp won’t keep all the moisture away. If your furniture is kept directly outdoors it would be advisable to have a water repellent cover made to fit your furniture. If you can move your pieces, a shed or patio would be an ideal storage space when your furniture is not in use. Cold temperatures can make plastics brittle and can also make wood rot and crack.
Keep it clean
If you have a piece of wooden outdoor furniture, chances are it is made from Teak. Teak is a beautiful and oily wood with natural moisture resistant qualities. Even the most water-resistant piece of wood is still going to absorb moisture if it’s left untreated. In very cold conditions water can freeze in the grains of wood, cracking the wood in the process. Unsightly mould can grow and take over a surface if food or organic matter is left to soak into the surface. Yearly maintenance is advisable for all furniture, especially for wooden items. All you will need for wood is mild soapy water and an abrasive pad to give it a good clean. Once it is thoroughly dry apply some outdoor furniture sealant with a brush. Some manufactures recommend two or more coats of sealant but refer to the instructions of your chosen sealant. A clean and sealed piece of teak will last for decades.
Under the patio
Where you place your setting is more important than what setting you have. A covered patio ensures a dry environment which is a boon for any type of furniture. Being protected from the harsh rays of the sun mean a patio will even give you benefits in the summer. A dry covered patio, with the addition of a heater can open your outside space for winter living too. These Outdoor Lounges ensure there is room for the whole family regardless of whether you’re entertaining inside or out. The less exposure to the elements, the longer your setting is going to last.
Won’t Somebody Please Think of the Cushions?
Many outdoor settings come with plush cushions to ramp up the comfort levels. These cushions are sometimes suited to the outdoors, with special anti-mould fabrics and foam that allows water to drain through. Whilst some of these cushions may be able to survive the odd downpour it is recommended that when not in use, store these cushions in a dry space.
As winter creeps up, it would be wise to prepare your beloved outdoor area for the possible harsh conditions ahead. A simple yearly maintenance routine coupled with keeping your items covered and dry can ensure you and your outdoor setting enjoy nature for years to come.
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