Exploring the Benefits of Using Patio Furniture
Patio furniture adds functionality and style to your backyard, giving you the chance to entertain guests in style. Whether it be dining al fresco or lounging on a rocker, knowing how to arrange it all for maximum impact is crucial to enjoying every minute.
If you live in an area that experiences strong gusts of wind, make sure your furniture can withstand strong gusts by choosing sturdy designs that can endure strong gusts of airflow.
Sun Damage
Patio furniture can be damaged in various ways, but one of the primary culprits is sun exposure. Sunlight exposure can cause fading, discoloration of fabric and furniture frames and even melting depending on what material has been chosen – something especially pertinent to Arizona where the hot and dry Sonoran Desert climate can have devastating consequences for outdoor materials.
Fading, or photobleaching as it’s more commonly known, occurs when sunlight penetrates fabrics and weakens their dyes at their component levels, similar to how UV rays damage skin. Fading can result in furniture that looks disjointed with pale patches that don’t quite match up and looks unattractive – an easily prevented issue by applying UV protection spray or having them reupholstered using fade-resistant fabric.
Melting can also occur, though less frequently, if your furniture is constructed of low-grade plastic materials that are too sensitive to heat. You can attempt to avoid this situation by not sitting directly in the sun or an area of your garden where direct sunlight reaches directly onto it and by regularly moving chairs, tables, and other pieces around in order to minimize exposure to direct sunlight from Arizona sun rays.
An attractive and functional way to protect patio furniture from the sun is with a shade solution like an awning or umbrella. Not only can this add aesthetic value, but you can move chairs or sofas around when necessary without losing protection from direct sunlight. An awning also allows for more consistent enjoyment of outdoor space, since you can simply open or close it when desired – perfect for maximising use from patio furniture during the summer. You should consider including this feature into your home whether already have one in place or starting fresh with deck construction!
Heat Damage
Summer brings beautiful outdoor dining and lounging experiences, but intense sunlight can cause irreparable harm to patio furniture. UV rays cause fading, discoloration and material deterioration over time – which you can reduce by covering them and keeping them under shaded areas when not being used; or adding retractable awnings which reduce exposure further.
Heat damage to outdoor furniture is another significant issue, often compounded by staining. Fabric exposed to high temperatures begins breaking down at an microscopic level, leading to tears, rips, or other forms of surface damage. When choosing low maintenance fabrics such as polyester, acrylic or olefin that dry quickly while being easy to maintain and resist UV fading is best.
Maintaining clean patio furniture is one of the key ways to extend its lifespan and prolong its life. Doing this will help remove dirt and debris, as well as inhibit mold and mildew growth. One effective method for keeping patio furniture looking its best is wiping it with a damp cloth; this will remove dust, dirt, spill marks caused by spilled food or beverages, as well as marks left from accidental droppings.
If your furniture is made from metal, a light coating of car wax can provide effective rust and corrosion protection. Alternatively, an outdoor-grade protective paint or coating product may be applied – these products can often be found at hardware stores as well as online.
Keeping plastic and aluminum furniture clean can prevent damage to its material by washing with soap and water regularly, using mild household cleaners such as white vinegar or tea tree oil, or applying wood preservative to protect it against water and natural elements.
Dust and Debris
Furniture of all kinds are susceptible to collecting dust and debris that can trigger allergies and irritation, with patio furniture especially being susceptible to this problem. A cover can protect your outdoor seating from being exposed to these particles while making cleaning simpler once season is over.
Covering patio furniture can also prevent pests from making themselves at home in or on it, creating a nuisance for all who use the space – children and pets alike – as well as cause lasting structural issues that may prove difficult or expensive to resolve.
An outdoor furniture cover can help reduce the time you spend cleaning and polishing your patio furniture, saving both time, money, and effort in maintaining its appearance. A patio furniture cover may even extend its usefulness well past summer’s end! If you’re on a tight budget, you can even check out secondhand patio furniture from accredited and reliable stores online.
When buying patio furniture, be sure to purchase pieces that will stand the test of time. This means splurging on pieces made from quality fabrics that resist fading and wear as well as avoiding cheap or poorly made options.
Before purchasing furniture, it’s also important to consider its frequency of use. Dining tables and chairs that will only be used occasionally such as during a summer barbecue will experience less wear and tear than lounge chairs that will likely be enjoyed more regularly.
When shopping for patio furniture, it’s essential to keep an eye out for sales that occur during peak outdoor living seasons and holidays. For instance, if you’re considering investing in a dining table purchase, be on the lookout for end-of-season or holiday sales; these could offer incredible bargains that could last through fall and winter as well as extra funds that can go toward other backyard improvements.
Maintenance
Although most patio furniture is designed to withstand the elements, it still may become damaged over time. Exposure to UV rays, moisture and fluctuating weather patterns can all cause wear and tear to even the most sturdy pieces – taking steps to preserve them will keep them looking brand new for many years!
Step one of maintaining outdoor furniture involves understanding how different materials respond to outdoor elements. Once this knowledge has been attained, selecting pieces tailored specifically for your needs and budget can follow suit. Take into consideration what purpose the furniture serves and how long you plan on spending in your outdoor living area.
If you plan on using your patio furniture frequently, investing in durable sets with high-quality fabrics will save you from replacing it every few seasons due to normal wear and tear. When selecting styles of furniture that complement both your landscape and aesthetic (for instance wicker may clash with modern furnishings), be sure to choose furniture accordingly.
It is recommended to store patio furniture indoors during the off-season if possible, to protect it from moisture damage. Moisture is one of the major contributors to patio furniture deterioration, and being covered with an impervious material such as waterproof tarp will significantly lessen its exposure to liquid.
Covering your furniture with a tarp is also a great way to reduce moisture risk, while providing added protection from pests like bugs, birds, and furry creatures in gardens and backyards. By shielding it from these unwelcome visitors and making it less appealing for them to visit, covering it could help ensure its continued safekeeping.
Storage of patio furniture is also essential to its protection, whether made of metal, wicker, or wood. Most forms should be brought inside during winter to avoid any instances of rust forming and prevent warped wood pieces from breaking due to snow weight.