Weatherproof Furniture for Your Backyard

Copyright (c) 2012 Super A-Mart

Weatherproof backyard furniture can provide the convenience and enjoyment of traditional outdoor furniture, but without the constant headaches of maintenance and care. From time to time however, it's important to remember that even weatherproof furniture requires occasional cleaning and maintenance to ensure that it remains in great condition.

Once or twice a year, give your outdoor furniture a gentle wash. Begin by mixing a diluted solution of dish soap and warm water in a large bucket. Apply the solution to your furniture, and allow to soak for three or four minutes. Scrub gently with a plastic-bristled brush, then rinse the furniture with cold water. Turn outdoor tables and chairs on their sides to allow for proper drainage, and give your furniture at least 12 hours in a warm, sunny location to dry.

Mold is a common problem for outdoor furniture, and regardless of how careful you are in keeping your outdoor furniture clean, the likelihood is that you will occasionally find patches of mold, particularly in seams and creases, or around bolts and screws. To remove the mold, scour the affected area gently with a fine-grit sandpaper, working slowly to avoid creating dust. Once the mold has been removed, wash the furniture thoroughly with cold water. Always wear respiratory protection such as a mask when cleaning mold.

An ounce of protection is worth a pound of cure. Unfortunately, many people do not apply this philosophy to their outdoor furniture. Simply taking a few moments to properly protect your furniture can save time, energy, and money. When not in use, it's best to store outdoor furniture in a dry environment, shielded from the elements - a garage or storage shed is ideal. When indoor or protected storage is not possible, elevate your furniture off the ground on pallets or cinder blocks, and cover it securely with a waterproof tarp. Remove plastic end-caps or other similar items which can allow moisture to collect.

Outdoor furniture made from wood or metal should be sealed and treated occasionally, to prevent rust and rot. Wood furniture, in particular, is susceptible to damage from UV rays, moisture, and mildew. To extend the longevity of your outdoor wood furniture, apply a waterproof stain or sealant to the entire surface of the wood once every other year, or more often if your furniture is heavily used. To protect metal furniture from rust and tarnish, coat it occasionally with a light coating of automotive wax. Applying a high-quality lubricant to nuts, bolts, and joints can effectively deter rust in these high-risk areas.

Taking a few moments to properly clean and care for your outdoor furniture can ensure that your pieces remain in excellent condition for years to come.


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An Interior Design Consultant/Stylist for Super A-Mart-Australia's leading Furniture Retailer, Sam writes about interior design and loves to help people transform their homes, rooms and spaces into their ideal living spaces. You can read more of Sam's writing at the Super A-Mart Blog. You may also visit his website here at http://www.superamart.com.au/ .