Summer is drawing to a close. You can literally count down the number of sunny days remaining on both hands. And whether we want to admit it or not, the reality of days dining alfresco, enjoying the longer warmer days, are numbered. With this in mind, perhaps it’s time to repair, clean and pack away the furniture you’ve thrashed this summer. It doesn’t matter if your outdoor furniture is wooden, aluminium or have managed to get through summer without hardly damaging your outdoor furniture, there’s a couple of things you can do to futureproof it for next summer.
The New Zealand sun can be particularly harsh; especially on our outdoor wooden furniture. We all know it doesn’t take long for the sun to give our outdoor wooden furniture setting that worn out rustic look. However, if that’s not what you’re after the following the next steps will help you to get it looking as good as new.
Strip any cushions or coverings off the seating or chair, then get a hand-held brush – like the one that comes with the dust-pan – and start brushing off the cobwebs. If there are any scratches or if you haven’t cleaned your wooden furniture since Barrack Obama was President it may be a good idea to give your outdoor furniture a light sanding and varnish.
Ask an expert at a hardware store for advice on the grade of sandpaper and type of finish to use on your outdoor furniture. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves and a safety mask when sanding or using a finishing on your outdoor furniture.
The more regular you do this - the easier the task.
Aluminium is a popular choice for many Kiwis: its light, weather resistant and its pretty low maintenance. However, this doesn’t mean you should slack off from looking after it. Giving your aluminium setting a thorough clean before packing it a way for the summer is the best way to protect it from corrosion, rust and a drive to the dump.
It’s very easy to protect your aluminium outdoor furniture. The first step is to simply give it a light spray with the hose. Don’t be afraid to get in between all the nooks and crannies. Giving your aluminium furniture a nice light soak will help to remove any excess dirt or cobwebs that may have built up. Avoid using any excess pressure as it can scratch the furniture.
The second step is to get a bucket of warm water mixed with just everyday soap suds, then get a cloth and wash over every piece. Lastly, give it a light rinse with the hose. Once soap suds or dirt are no longer visible, it’s time to give it a good rub down with a towel. Additionally, if you’re in the mood, give the glass a quick spray and wipe with a general glass cleaner to give it that extra shine.
While your outdoor furniture setting is drying; it’s probably also a good time to give your outdoor cushions a launder. It’s best to read the manufacturer’s instructions - which can be found on the outside or inside the cover - and wash accordingly.
In order to keep your outdoor furniture in pristine condition its best to cover them up or, if possible, store them a way. These days there are covers for every size and type of outdoor furniture, and they’re relatively inexpensive and cost effective too.
How to winterise your BBQ. Click here.
Caring for your pool. Click here.
Tips for winter driving. Click here.
