When you invest in patio furniture, it’s important to protect it from the elements to keep it looking and functioning its best for years to come. One common question that arises is whether or not to cover patio furniture every night.
The answer is yes, it’s a good idea to cover your patio furniture every night, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or if you’re expecting a storm. Covering your patio furniture protects it from damage caused by the elements, including sun damage, rain damage, rust, corrosion, dirt, and debris buildup.
In this article, I will explore the benefits of covering patio furniture, the potential consequences of leaving it uncovered, and provide tips for choosing the best patio furniture covers. By the end, you will have a better understanding of whether or not you should cover your patio furniture every night.
Why cover patio furniture?
Covering patio furniture provides several benefits, including:
- Protection from the elements: Patio furniture is designed to be used outdoors, but it’s not designed to withstand constant exposure to sun, wind, rain, and other weather conditions. Covering your furniture can protect it from damage caused by these elements.
- Avoiding damage: Covering patio furniture can help avoid damage caused by falling objects, such as tree branches or debris, which can scratch or dent the surface of the furniture.
- Increasing longevity: When you cover your patio furniture, you can extend its lifespan by protecting it from the elements and reducing the need for repairs or replacements.
- Keeping furniture clean: Covering your patio furniture can also help keep it clean by preventing dirt, dust, and debris from accumulating on the surface. This means less time spent cleaning and more time enjoying your outdoor space.
What happens when patio furniture is left uncovered?
When patio furniture is left uncovered, it is exposed to the elements and can suffer from a variety of issues, including:
- Sun damage: Constant exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause fading, discoloration, and even cracking of the materials used to make patio furniture.
- Rain damage: Moisture from rain can cause wooden furniture to warp or rot and metal furniture to rust or corrode.
- Rust and corrosion: Metal furniture left uncovered can quickly begin to rust and corrode, which can weaken the structure of the furniture and make it more susceptible to damage.
- Dirt and debris: When patio furniture is left uncovered, it can quickly accumulate dirt, dust, and debris, which can make it more difficult to clean and lead to permanent staining or damage.
- Pest infestations: Patio furniture left uncovered can attract pests like insects, rodents, and birds, who may use the furniture as a nesting site or for food. This can lead to damage to the furniture and even health hazards for humans.
Types of patio furniture covers
There are several types of patio furniture covers available in the market. Below are six of the most common types of patio furniture covers:
- Polyester covers: These covers are affordable and lightweight. They are easy to clean, and they come in a variety of colors.
- Vinyl covers: Vinyl covers are durable and waterproof. They are easy to clean and come in different colors.
- Canvas covers: Canvas covers are made from heavy-duty materials, making them suitable for harsh weather conditions. They are usually available in neutral colors.
- Breathable covers: Breathable covers are designed to allow air circulation to prevent moisture buildup. They are suitable for covering wooden patio furniture.
- Custom covers: These covers are made to fit your patio furniture perfectly. They are usually more expensive than standard covers, but they provide the best protection.
- Umbrella covers: These covers are designed to protect patio umbrellas. They come in different shapes and sizes to fit different umbrella types.
When choosing a patio furniture cover, it’s important to consider the material’s quality, durability, and fit. A well-fitting cover will provide better protection and last longer.
When should you cover your patio furniture?
The frequency with which you should cover your patio furniture depends on several factors, including the weather conditions in your area and how often you use your outdoor furniture. Here are some guidelines to help you determine when to cover your patio furniture:
- Every night: If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or you’re expecting a storm, it’s a good idea to cover your patio furniture every night to protect it from damage.
- During certain seasons: If you only use your patio furniture during certain seasons, like summer, you may only need to cover it during the off-season to protect it from the elements.
- During a storm: It’s important to cover your patio furniture during a storm to protect it from wind, rain, and debris.
In general, it’s a good idea to cover your patio furniture when it’s not in use. This will help protect it from the elements and keep it looking its best for years to come.
Tips for covering patio furniture
Covering your patio furniture correctly is essential to ensure maximum protection. Here are 5 tips for covering your patio furniture:
- Prepare furniture for covering: Remove any cushions, umbrellas, or accessories from your patio furniture before covering it. Make sure the furniture is dry and clean before covering it to prevent moisture buildup.
- Use the right size cover: A cover that is too small won’t provide adequate protection, while a cover that is too large may allow wind or debris to get inside. Make sure to measure your furniture and choose a cover that fits snugly.
- Apply the cover correctly: Start at one end of the furniture and work your way to the other, making sure the cover is evenly distributed. Use any straps or ties provided with the cover to secure it in place and prevent it from blowing away in the wind.
- Use additional support: If your patio furniture has any flat surfaces, like tabletops, use support to prevent water from pooling on top of the cover. You can use a tennis ball or other objects to create a peak and allow water to drain off.
- Store covers properly: When not in use, store your patio furniture covers in a dry and clean place to prevent mold and mildew growth. Avoid storing them in damp or humid areas.
How to choose the best patio furniture covers
Choosing the best patio furniture cover can be a daunting task, but here are some factors to consider when making your selection:
- Material: Choose a material that is durable, waterproof, and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Some of the best materials include polyester, vinyl, and canvas.
- Fit: Make sure to choose a cover that fits your patio furniture correctly. A well-fitting cover will provide better protection and last longer.
- Breathability: Consider choosing a cover that is breathable to prevent moisture buildup, especially if you are covering wooden furniture.
- Quality: Invest in a high-quality cover that is built to last. While they may be more expensive, they will provide better protection and save you money in the long run.
- Features: Look for covers with additional features such as straps, ties, and vents. These will help keep the cover in place, allow air circulation, and prevent damage caused by wind.
- Brand: Choose a reputable brand with good customer reviews and ratings. This will give you peace of mind and assurance that you are purchasing a quality product.
Conclusion
In conclusion, covering your patio furniture is an essential step in protecting it from the elements and extending its lifespan. Leaving patio furniture uncovered can lead to sun damage, rain damage, rust, corrosion, dirt and debris buildup, and pest infestations. By choosing the right type of cover and applying it correctly, you can protect your furniture from these issues and keep it looking its best for years to come.
Remember to choose a cover made from durable and waterproof materials, ensure a good fit, and consider additional features like straps and vents. Investing in a high-quality cover may seem like an extra expense, but it will save you money in the long run by protecting your furniture and preventing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Here is another great article answering a common question many ask “Can Patio Furniture Get Wet?”
