Suitable Material Types for Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture can be an expensive investment, so wanting to keep it for as long as you can is reasonable. However, there are many different things that can impact the longevity of outdoor furniture, including inevitable wear and tear as well as exposure to the elements.

If you’re wondering how you can extend the life of your outdoor furniture pieces, here are some tips to help you save time and money and avoid the frustration of having to replace your outdoor furniture.

Regular Maintenance

Just like your interior furniture, outdoor furniture requires regular maintenance and cleaning. Being consistent with the upkeep of your furniture will ensure that it doesn’t accumulate dirt and debris, nasty stains and dust. Beyond making for an unhealthy environment, these elements can also contribute to damaging outdoor furniture. For this reason, it’s recommended that you give all suitable fabrics and materials a routine scrub.

Look into your specific outdoor furniture and what kind of maintenance it requires so you know how to keep on top of it. In general, it pays off to be active with your maintenance approach. Simple measures like wiping up any spills straight away, wiping furniture after rain and removing any residues straight away will help to prolong your outdoor furniture.

A Finishing Touch

Some outdoor furniture materials require a finish, and this should be freshened up occasionally for two reasons – firstly, to keep your outdoor furniture looking as good as you can, and secondly, to extend its life. A fresh coat of finish or paint will ensure that your furniture remains resistant to the likes of rust, termites, fading and exposure to the elements.
Different types of outdoor furniture are going to require different things, so make sure you’ve properly researched your particular furniture. For example, aluminium furniture requires wax, whereas wrought iron furniture will require paint. There are also certain protective oils, preservatives and sealers that can be purchased in order to keep your outdoor furniture protected. A professional will be able to advise you on the best products for your furniture.

Protect Your Furniture

Beyond protecting your outdoor furniture with oils and paint, it’s also a good idea to physically protect it during extreme weather conditions. If there’s a hailstorm or a particularly hot day, protect your outdoor furniture by moving it under cover if you can do so. This might not be possible for the likes of bulky or heavy furniture, but moving smaller furniture items like coffee tables and chairs can help to protect them from harsh weather.

Directly after extreme weather, make sure you take the necessary measures and steps so your furniture won’t be negatively affected. This could mean applying a coat to wooden outdoor furniture after it’s been in the hot sun, or scrubbing your cushion covers after they’ve been rained on. The quicker you act, the more likely you’ll be to protect your outdoor furniture pieces from damage – and the longer you’ll be able to enjoy them.