13 December 2023 | News
The best outdoor furniture for all seasons
You’re finally about to purchase new outdoor furniture to enjoy the warm season, but have you considered whether it will withstand the rest of the year?
Outdoor furniture may not get much use during the colder months, but taking proper care of it is essential to ensure it lasts season after season. Leaving your lounge sofas or designer chairs exposed without proper protection can lead to damage. Many materials are not designed to endure freezing, thawing, and harsh weather conditions such as snow, frost, and rain. To help you choose durable furniture and learn how to care for it, we’ve consulted industry experts and designers.
Are you planning to upgrade your outdoor spaces? Start by creating a relaxing green area with our custom planters. Keep reading to ensure your outdoor furniture remains in excellent condition all year round.
Which furniture can stay outdoors during Winter?
If you spend a lot of time outdoors in spring and summer, investing in high-quality modern furniture is crucial for longevity. Choosing well-designed, durable pieces means you can relax without worrying about constant maintenance or repair.
Whether you have a terrace, balcony, or backyard, your outdoor living set could last 5 to 10 years.
"When it comes to outdoor furniture, some materials are more durable and require less upkeep than others", says Kashi Shikunova, director of Yam Studios. "While high-quality teak or cedar can hold up relatively well, they still need regular care to maintain their appearance and durability. On the other hand, aluminum is generally the most weather-resistant material".
For wooden furniture, remember to apply a weatherproof sealant and ensure they are treated with climate-resistant paint to protect against moisture and UV rays.
Which outdoor furniture is the most weather-resistant?
Kashi says: “Powder-coated aluminum furniture is known for its exceptional durability, making it the ideal choice for outdoor environments". Unlike wood, which requires regular maintenance, aluminum can withstand harsh winter temperatures and high humidity levels. Its resilience ensures it remains intact and unaffected by frost and moisture.
However, if your furniture features cushions or upholstery, it’s advisable to store these indoors or in a cabinet. Prolonged exposure to weather can lead to stains and other unwanted issues.
How can you protect your furniture from the elements?
Move your outdoor furniture to a safe location during the colder months.
“Caring for furniture during winter is a crucial step to extend its life.” says Julia Mack, founder of Julia Mack Design. Choose a dry location like a basement or garage, and cover the pieces with nylon or plastic, ensuring the cover isn’t too tightly wrapped. If your indoor storage space is prone to temperature fluctuations or humidity, furniture may warp or develop mold. Store it carefully and inspect it periodically. If indoor storage isn’t an option, consider investing in an aluminum pergola or a bioclimatic pergola. These innovative solutions not only enhance your outdoor space but also protect against adverse weather conditions, including rain and UV rays. For storing cushions and padding, a custom storage bench is a practical option.
What types of furniture shouldn’t be left outdoors?
Certain materials are unsuitable for winter exposure. For example, wicker furniture should not be left outside, as water can easily seep in and freeze, causing the material to expand and crack. The best solution is to cover wicker pieces and store them indoors.
Steel is another material to avoid leaving outside on a modern patio, whether large or small. Snow and frost can scratch its surface. If painted, cold temperatures may cause the paint to crack, allowing water to penetrate and cause rust.
Glass tabletops should also be moved indoors. This fragile material cannot withstand severe weather and may break easily.
Want to make the most of your outdoor spaces 365 days a year? Explore our custom projects. Enhance your space with high-quality, long-lasting furniture. Visit our website to discover our range of bespoke metal products. Contact us at info@elunapiena.it for more information or to request a free quote!
Tags: #furniture #metal #custom-made #outdoor #design #terraces #garden