Do you know what your patio furniture is made of?
At Trex Outdoor Furniture, we craft each of our designs using all-weather, Genuine POLYWOOD™ lumber. We do this to ensure your furniture withstands harsh winter conditions. If your furniture isn't built for snow, ice, or rain, we have tips on how to keep it safe during the off-season.
In This Article
Take Inventory
Look at what’s outside. Do you have aluminum chairs around a wooden table on your patio or wrought iron plant stands on the porch? Some materials are tougher than others, and each has different requirements in terms of care and maintenance.
- Store wicker inside, away from the cold.
- Ensure you’ve touched up any rust on your steel or iron outdoor pieces. This helps prevent rust.
- Bring in stone tables. Depending on the type, you’ll probably want to store stone inside during the winter. Ice and water can seep in, causing the stone to crack.
- Consider applying waterproof coatings to aluminum, or follow the manufacturer’s recommended care instructions.
- Stay wood smart. Wood is hardy, so you can leave seasoned wood in the elements year-round, sans cover. In fact, a cover increases the chances of trapped moisture, which invites mildew and mold.
Protect What You Have
Outdoor furniture is an investment. You regularly clean your indoor sofa (right?), so treat your outdoor furniture with the same level of care.
- Regularly clean outdoor cushions and throw pillows by brushing off loose dirt, spraying a mild soap and water solution, and then using a soft-bristle brush. After the solution soaks into the fabric, rinse away any soap residue and air-dry.
- Make sure all your patio furniture is clean before winter to prevent dirt and debris buildup. For wooden furniture, use a diluted solution of Murphy’s Oil Soap and water with a bristled brush to remove grime before it becomes an issue. Most outdoor furniture, particularly pieces made from HDPE plastic, requires only mild soap, water, and a soft brush. For tougher stains or fungi, apply a mixture of one part bleach and two parts water.
- Visually inspect all furniture for any issues, particularly around hardware. Trex Outdoor Furniture uses marine-grade quality hardware to reduce rust, but salt, ice, and snow can speed up rust formation. Scrub with a soft-bristled brush to loosen rust and use appliance touch-up paint in the matching color.
- Seal stone and oiled wood surfaces as needed. It’s best to bring in stone tabletops, but sealing them according to the manufacturer’s instructions can help prevent small cracks. Oiling woods like teak helps them keep their natural color longer.
- Seal any metal furniture with automobile wax to help it withstand winter weather. Follow the instructions on the wax container, and avoid applying it on cold days or in direct sunlight.
Cover It
Know When to Store
Of course, some things are best put away when not in use. If you don’t plan on any outdoor dining come the first snowfall, store your furniture in a garage, workshop, storage closet, or another place out of the elements. Even then, we recommend a furniture cover to keep dust and dirt from settling.
You know the old cliché: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. But if you take good care of your outdoor furniture now, come spring and summer, you’ll be thankful you put in a little extra effort.
