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Summertime is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the weather. However, if you have outdoor furniture, you may be concerned about how it will hold up in the heat. The sun’s rays can affect furniture made from wood, metal, or plastic. Many people choose to apply a coat of paint or varnish to their outdoor furniture every year to help protect it. However, this can be a hassle, especially if your outdoor furniture is large or unwieldy. Fortunately, there are other ways you can protect your furniture from heat damage. Here are some ways to help protect outdoor furniture from heat discoloration.
1. Invest in Furniture Covers
You can purchase furniture covers that you place over your furniture when it is not in use. The covers are made from plastic or vinyl and come in an assortment of colors to match your outdoor décor. They are often made to fit your specific furniture pieces, so they will fit snugly over your chair or couch. Some of these covers have zippers or drawstrings to help hold them in place and can removed when you want to use the furniture again. If your furniture does not have zippers or drawstrings, you will need to be sure to remove the furniture covers before storing. If the furniture is not in use for a long time and you do not want to store it in the winter, you can purchase covers made from washable, non-toxic materials like cotton to help keep them clean.
2. Use Water Sealant
If your outdoor furniture is made from wood or plastic, you can protect it with water sealant. This sealant protects the furniture from cracking or discoloring when heat exposure. If you choose this protection method, it is important to carefully read the labels’ directions to use the proper amount of sealant and apply it appropriately. It is also recommended that you purchase a high-quality sealant explicitly designed for use on outdoor furniture and not just any old brand. Many outdoor furniture brands will also offer a waterproofing sealant for outdoor furniture. These are typically spray-on coatings that you can use to protect your outdoor furniture from extreme heat and moisture.
3. Paint
While applying a coat of paint to your furniture may cover up some of the details or decorations on your outdoor furniture, it will keep it looking fresh and clean. This type of protection is especially popular with wooden furniture with elegant carvings or detailed designs. However, choose the right type of paint for your outdoor furniture. If you are painting plastic or metal, you will not need to worry about moisture seeping into the material and damaging it. However, if you paint wood, you will want to choose water-based paint. Be prepared to re-apply the paint annually to ensure that your furniture maintains its attractive look.
4. Keep Them in the Shade
Even if your furniture is made from a material that can withstand moisture, it is essential to have your furniture kept in a shaded area or under an umbrella. The sun’s rays can fade and discolor your furniture, so be sure to keep the shade coming. If you have difficulty remembering to move the furniture every few hours, consider buying an umbrella that you can use when you want to sit outside. This will allow you to enjoy the protection of the shade without having to rearrange your chairs or patio furniture constantly.
5. Use a Tarp
Tarps are another effective way to protect your furniture from heat. If you have a small garden chair or small table, you can use a tarp to cover it. While most tarps are made from PVC and have an open weave pattern, you can also find waterproof heavy-duty tarps for sale that are designed specifically for outdoor furniture. These tarps will help keep the sun from reflecting off your furniture onto the ground below. They are also helpful in covering larger pieces of outdoor furniture like picnic tables or fire pits.
These few ways to help you protect outdoor furniture from heat damage. Consider using a few tips when shopping for new furniture or redecorating in the future. This will make your furniture last a long time and look its best for years.