How To Weatherproof Your Patio Furniture This Weekend

Patio furniture is a must for outdoor living. From preventing the colours from fading and future-proofing for easier maintenance, there are several reasons to protect your investment. Don’t overlook this seasonal maintenance job! Below you’ll read our top tips on how to get the most out of your outdoor furniture.

Once you’re ready, the team at Wood Country Building Services can assist with your questions and needs to protect your furniture.

Start By Proactively Covering Your Patio

To ensure proper protection for outdoor furniture, check for adequate coverage over the patio and deck.

Even a small umbrella can work wonders in keeping sun damage away from wood and fabric and eliminating debris like sap and leaves from accumulating on chairs and tables.

Placing your patio furniture under a large awning or covered space will eliminate most weather-related damage. Also, be sure to keep an eye on the weather, take in your cushions during heavy rain and flip the chairs over on the table to protect the wood finish.

Buy Furniture Covers

Even though most patio furniture is designed to withstand the elements, it’s best to use a fabric slip to protect the finish from wind, rain, snow, and sap.

If you don’t like the look or hassle of putting on the covers every night, they can still be highly effective for long-term defence when used over the winter months. They can stop snow and ice from melting and warping wood, and avoid the build-up of leaves and debris during the fall.

Weatherproof Outdoor Wood Furniture with Sealant or Varnish

If you know you can’t be home at all hours to bring the tables and chairs indoors, a store-bought sealant is one of the best options to protect wood in all types of weather. The process is simple and can extend the lifespan of your expensive outdoor furniture.

A sealant will protect the wood from any penetrating moisture that could warp or discolour the surface while keeping the finish safe from scratches.

Sealing Outdoor Wood Furniture

There are a few different types of sealants that you can consider for the job. First, match the sealant to the wood's material. Not all woods are created equally, so be sure to pick the best sealant for the type of wood.

Preventing Rust on Metal Furniture

There are a few ways to add protective material to iron and metal patio furniture. However, they’re expensive and can only be completed by professionals.

The first method involves adding a galvanized coat to the metal. This process requires heating zinc to 800 degrees Fahrenheit, which is not possible for most DIYers. The second method uses a bluing technique that creates an oxidized surface on the steel. The chemicals needed for this process are also costly and must be used by a professional.

Instead, metal patio furniture is best protected by furniture covers, which keep it dry and clean at all times.

Protecting Cushions on the Patio

Furniture cushions add comfort and coziness to your outdoor space. However, they can quickly become weathered and sun-damaged when left out in the summer.

Adding a waterproof topper to cushions can help extend their lifespan. You also won’t need to rush home in a rainstorm to bring them inside.

Choose a Waterproofing Agent for Fabric

There are several types of waterproofing agents for outdoor fabric. The easiest ones to apply are roll-on wax and spray-on waterproofing.

Fabric Wax

Fabric wax is the easiest method for waterproofing. It comes in a simple roll-on applicator or as a bar. The only downside of these items is that they may melt in extreme heat, so you may have to reapply if the sun scorches the cushions and pillows.

Waterproof Spray

A store-bought waterproof spray is the most effective way to create a watertight seal on outside cushions and pillows. It can be sprayed once a season to ensure a fresh coat of protection.

Whether your outdoor furniture is a small patio set or an entire dining and lounging area, using a few simple methods and tools can protect your investment for years to come. Feel free to visit us at the store or call if you have any questions.