Your patio is likely to be the favored place to hang out when the weather is nice. Your patio space is the perfect place to relax after a hard day or to entertain family and friends. With how much time you will be spending on your patio, it is important to take care of it. Depending on where you live, the climate may prevent you from using your patio through every season, which makes seasonal maintenance and care essential. In addition to this, patios are an investment and the last thing you want is for the patio furniture to start looking older than it really is. This would be a waste of your investment and cost you more when you have to buy new furniture.
Caring for your Patio Furniture
During the summer months, when the patio is most likely to be used, make sure you wipe down all furniture regularly. If you also have a pool, be sure to lay a towel on furniture first so as not to transfer oily sunscreen to the furniture. You also need to protect your furniture from the sun by using an umbrella or some form of awning. Sun can bleach fabrics, so during the warmer months, you should keep furniture covered to prevent its color from fading. During the winter months, your patio may not get as much use, so you need to take the proper precautions to ensure it lasts and retains its looks through the season. You want to ensure the furniture is ready to go when the warmer months come back. Covering your furniture is the best way to protect it from the elements such as rain and snow.
You also need to give all furniture a thorough cleaning before covering it for the winter. Wipe all furniture down to remove any dirt and build up and then use a polish to provide a protectant coat. In case you store the furniture indoors, the sealant protects it from any moisture that can cause damage. Patio furniture will last much longer if stored indoors and this is recommended in areas that get snow. If you live in a more temperate climate, strong cover will work for the colder months.
Once it is time to bring the patio furniture back out or remove the cover, there are a few tips to make sure each piece looks its best and will stay in great condition all summer long.
- Wicker materials can trap dirt within the woven fibers so need to be cleaned out thoroughly. Using a soft brush and oil-based soap, wipe down your wicker pieces and rinse with a hose.
- Metal items need to be wiped down with regular dish soap and water. Metal also lasts longer when protective sealants are used to prevent scratches and rust.
- For all cushions and items covered in fabric, lotions and sun can cause discoloration. Washing in a regular laundry cycle will take care of any stains, but some fabric conditioner or protective sprays can help materials to retain vibrant colors for longer.
- Wood furniture can suffer from mildew, especially in humid climates. Should any mildew show up, use a white-vinegar and water spray handy to clean away any stains and prevent spreading.
Conclusion
Your patio is more than just an addition to your house, it is a great place to spend some time outdoors. A patio can be an inviting place for relaxation so looking its best is important in making people feel comfortable. Take care of your patio furniture to keep it looking great for longer and to keep you comfortable all year round.
