10 Handy Tips to Protect Outdoor Furniture From Rain
Worried about the rainy weather wreaking havoc on your outdoor furniture? Fret not!
In this guide, I’ll show you simple and effective ways to protect your outdoor furniture from rain and ensure it stays in great shape season after season.
How Do You Protect Outdoor Furniture From Rain?
1. Cover it up
When you’re not using your outdoor furniture, put a waterproof cover on it.
A tarp or tarpaulin can be an excellent choice as an additional layer of protection.
These heavy-duty, water-resistant materials provide an extra barrier against moisture, preventing it from seeping through and reaching your furniture.
2. Add an Umbrella
If you have space, consider placing an outdoor umbrella over your furniture to provide extra protection from rain.
Look for a sturdy and weather-resistant umbrella. Some umbrellas come with tilt and rotation features, allowing you to adjust their position according to the direction of the rain.
3. Seek Shelter
If the weather forecast predicts heavy rain, an umbrella won’t do. Try to place your furniture under a roof or some kind of shelter to avoid direct exposure to rain.
If possible, bring your furniture indoors during heavy rain or storms.
Make sure there are no leaks in your roof or shelter that could damage your furniture.
4. Apply Waterproofing Spray
Apply a waterproof spray on your furniture to repel rainwater.
These waterproof sprays are specially formulated to coat various materials, such as wood, metal, plastic, or fabric.
5. Varnish or Seal
If your furniture is made of wood, consider varnishing or sealing it to protect it from rain.
Wood is susceptible to swelling, warping, rotting, and cracking when exposed to water for extended periods
Varnishing or sealing creates a protective barrier that prevents water from penetrating the wood, keeping it safe and extending its lifespan.
6. Elevate from the Ground
Keep the furniture legs slightly elevated to prevent water from pooling and damaging them.
Small furniture glides or risers made from materials like rubber or plastic can be easily attached to the bottom of the legs.
For furniture with wider legs, use bricks, blocks, or even small stones. Just make sure the furniture remains stable and balanced.
7. Opt for Quick Dry Materials
Opt for quick-drying materials when buying outdoor furniture. They’re designed to dry rapidly, minimizing the risk of damage caused
One of the popular materials known for its quick-drying properties is synthetic wicker.
This material is made from resin or plastic fibers, which are naturally water-resistant.
8. Check for Drainage
Ensure that water doesn’t get trapped around your furniture area.
Trapped water can lead to a host of issues, including rotting, rusting, mold growth, and even damage to the ground surface.
9. Wipe Dry
After the rain stops, wipe down the furniture to remove any moisture. Clean your furniture regularly to prevent mold and mildew buildup.
10. Inspect Regularly
Check your furniture for any signs of damage or wear caused by rain
By taking these simple steps, you can keep your outdoor furniture safe and make it last longer.
What Happens if Furniture Gets Rained On?
Exposure to rain can cause various issues with outdoor furniture, including water stains, swelling, warping, rotting, rust, mold, discoloration, and degradation of adhesives.
Fabrics and cushions can develop mold and mildew, while pests may infest wood furniture due to water pooling.
Water Stains
If the furniture is made of wood, fabric, or certain metals, water stains can develop on the surface after rainwater evaporates.
These stains can be unsightly and challenging to remove.
Swelling and Warping
Wooden furniture, especially if not properly sealed, can absorb water and swell when exposed to rain.
This swelling can cause the furniture to warp or become misshapen, affecting its stability and appearance.
Rotting
Prolonged exposure to rainwater can lead to wood rot, especially in untreated or poorly maintained wooden furniture.
Rotting can weaken the furniture’s structure and eventually render it unusable.
Rust
Outdoor furniture made of metal, such as iron or steel, may develop rust when exposed to rain and moisture.
Rust can damage the furniture’s surface, making it look worn and affecting its structural integrity.
Mold and Mildew
Fabrics and cushions left outdoors in the rain can easily develop mold and mildew.
These fungi not only cause unsightly stains but also emit a musty odor and can trigger allergies or respiratory issues.
Degradation of Glues and Adhesives
Excessive exposure to rain can weaken the glues and adhesives used in furniture construction, leading to joints and connections loosening or failing.
Pest Infestation
Puddles of water around or inside the furniture can attract pests, such as mosquitoes, ants, or termites, which can damage the furniture or create an unpleasant outdoor environment.
Should I Cover My Outdoor Furniture When It Rains?
Covering your outdoor furniture when it rains is highly recommended.
Using waterproof covers is an effective way to protect your furniture from potential water damage caused by rain.
Should You Cover Outdoor Furniture if It’s Wet?
Avoid covering outdoor furniture if it’s already wet.
When you cover wet furniture, moisture can become trapped underneath the cover, leading to a higher risk of mold and mildew growth.
Instead, allow the furniture to dry completely before covering it.
If you need to protect wet furniture temporarily, consider using breathable materials like towels or blankets to prevent moisture buildup until it dries.
What Outdoor Furniture Can Be Left in the Rain?
Some outdoor furniture types that can withstand rain include all-weather wicker made from plastic or resin, aluminum furniture with rust-resistant finishes, and dense hardwood-like teak.
Furniture made from HDPE, stone, or concrete, along with outdoor fabrics like solution-dyed acrylic, are designed to withstand rainy conditions without significant damage.
