As the holiday season approaches, it’s crucial to check off all your winter-prep projects before the first hard freeze sets in—especially when it comes to winterizing your outdoor furniture. Frost and cold weather can take a toll on materials like wicker, upholstery, unsealed wood, plastic, and coated metal. While many outdoor furniture products are marketed as weatherproof, it’s worth considering protective covers or alternative storage options to extend their lifespan.
Ideally, furniture made from wood, metal, plastic, or upholstered materials should be stored indoors during the winter, such as in a garage or shed. If indoor storage isn’t feasible, investing in snug-fitting furniture covers is essential. Cold temperatures can cause wood to expand and contract, leading to warping, cracking, or moisture damage. Wicker furniture is particularly susceptible to water seepage, which can freeze and cause cracking or unraveling. Similarly, cold weather can make powder-coated metal and plastic brittle, and even rust-resistant cast aluminum may corrode unless adequately protected or moved indoors.
Winterizing outdoor furniture involves tailoring care to each material, but the steps are straightforward. For guidance on best practices and effective protective solutions for different types of patio furniture, read on to keep your pieces in excellent condition.
If your outdoor furniture is made of Polywood, however, extra winterizing measures aren’t necessary. Though it may come with a higher price tag, Polywood’s resistance to temperature fluctuations, UV rays, water, and snow makes it an excellent all-weather choice. If you’re looking for low-maintenance furniture that doesn’t require shuffling or covering during inclement weather, Polywood is a worthwhile investment. Please give kleen powerwash a call at the end of the winter season to give your patio furniture a gentle wash and cleaning.
