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has been sealed for the longest life without much maintenance. Teak is the gold standard for wood that will whether well outdoors, as the oils in teak help give it natural water repellency.”
Making the right fabric choice is also crucial.
“The biggest problem for outdoor furniture is the effect that ultraviolet rays, air, and humidity have on the furniture’s finish. This is especially true for homes close to the ocean,” says Tammy Leeman, owner/operator of Absolute Powder Coating & Patio Furniture Restoration in Pompano Beach, Florida.
“Routine care and maintenance will enhance the appearance of your patio furniture and extend the life of your frames, slings, strapping, and cushions, too.”
During seasons of use, take the time to clean and wash the frames with a solution of mild detergent and water, followed by a rinse with clear water and thorough drying.
Christine Kobervic Munger, director of merchandising and sourcing for Fernish, a furniture rental service, suggests tilting
the back cushions downward so that they cover the seat cushions when your furniture isn’t in use.
“Keep a soft, natural bristle brush on hand to brush off any dust or debris between uses so that it doesn’t build up,” adds Munger.
If you are preparing to purchase outdoor furniture, aim for products with the lowest maintenance possible, such as powder-coated metal.
“All-weather wicker and woven rope are durable, but they will require more maintenance and cleaning to keep them looking new because of the textured surfaces of these materials,” Munger explains. “Wood is classic and can last a long time with proper treatment, but choose outdoor wood furniture that
“Polyester fabrics are made from plastics and tend to break down easier when exposed to weather, salt water, or harsh chemicals. Olefin is more durable than polyester and crafted from synthetic fibers. It’s one of the most comfortable fabrics and has moisture-wicking and water-resistant properties.
But it is sensitive to heat, so you need to remove this fabric from direct sunlight during sweltering days and air-dry it in the shade after washing,” cautions Corey Lee, senior vice president of SunVilla Home.
The most durable outdoor fabric is solution-died acrylic, which is extremely strong, UV-stabilized, and water-, fade-, and weather-resistant.
– CTW Features
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