It’s the middle of summer, and you’re enjoying a nice day by the pool. You’ve got your bathing suit on, some sunscreen, and a cold drink. What’s missing? Some comfortable outdoor furniture! But wait… can outdoor furniture get wet?
Most outdoor furniture is water-resistant but not waterproof. This means that the furniture can withstand some moisture, but it’s not meant to be submerged in water. Therefore, If you live in a rainy climate, you may need to take extra precautions to protect your furniture from the rain.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what happens when outdoor furniture gets wet and how you can protect it from the elements. We’ll also provide some tips for cleaning and caring for your outdoor furniture. So let’s dive right in!
Does Outdoor Furniture Get Wet?
Most people invest in outdoor furniture because they want to be able to enjoy their backyard or patio during the warmer months without worrying about damaging their good furniture with rain, dirt, or humidity. However, just because outdoor furniture can withstand the elements doesn’t mean it can’t get wet.
Outdoor furniture can withstand some moisture and humidity, but it’s not waterproof. Therefore, it shouldn’t be exposed to rainfall or sitting in a puddle. If your furniture is left out in the rain, the water will eventually seep through the joints and fabric, which can cause damage over time.
Why Can’t Outdoor Furniture Be Waterproof?
So, why don’t manufacturers make waterproof outdoor furniture if this can happen? Wouldn’t it be great if we didn’t have to grab a tarp every time it rained? Well, there are good reasons why that isn’t the case.
You see, while it’s possible to completely waterproof patio furniture, doing so would make the furniture extremely uncomfortable. Not to mention, the furniture would be more susceptible to mold and mildew growth due to diminished breathability.
How to Protect Outdoor Furniture from Getting Wet
So, if you can’t waterproof outdoor furniture and really shouldn’t try to do so either, how should you protect your outdoor furniture pieces? Luckily, there are a few ways to protect your patio furniture and ensure they stay beautiful for years to come. These include:
Inspect Your Furniture Often
It’s easy to ignore the state of your outdoor furniture when you’re not using it and are instead focusing on enjoying the inside of your home. However, if you want to keep them in prime condition, you need to inspect them regularly. If they look dirty or have mold/mildew growing on them, take action as soon as possible.
It’s best to do these inspections at the beginning of each new season so that you can prepare your furniture for the elements ahead. Also, if there are any damages that need to be fixed, now is the time to do it before they get worse.
Protect with a Cover
If you’re not using your outdoor furniture or if it’s going to rain/snow, put on a protective cover. This will go a long way in preventing any damage from the weather or other elements.
Put Your Furniture Away When Not in Use
If you have room, it’s best to bring your furniture inside during the winter season. This is especially true if there are high winds that can cause your furniture to blow away (which has happened).
If you don’t have room in your house, at least try to put it in a sheltered area, like a garage or covered porch.
Clean and Dry Regularly
Even if you’re taking all necessary precautions, outdoor furniture still needs to be cleaned and dried regularly. This will help prolong its life and keep it looking good.
Apply a Protective Coating
It’s also advisable to apply a protective coating to your furniture. This will help seal it and make it more water-resistant. There are many different types of coatings available, so be sure to choose one that’s right for your needs.
Install an Awning
Another simple way to protect your outdoor furniture is installing an awning over it. This will help keep the rain and snow off your pieces, keeping them looking good for longer. Choose from a variety of styles to suit your home’s style.
Wrapping Up
Most people think outdoor furniture is waterproof just because it’s designed to be used outdoors isn’t the case. Patio furniture is water-resistant but not waterproof. Therefore, you must take the necessary precautions to keep it dry and in good shape all year long.
Use the tips we’ve shared today to keep your outdoor furniture looking great for many years to come!
