7 Ways to Protect Your Patio Furniture From Sun Damage

Although water, staining and dirt are obvious threats to patio furniture, homeowners should also be cautious of the sun as it can destroy their beautiful investment. 

Fabric umbrellas can do more than keep you cool, they can also keep the sun off your patio chairs.

Just like the sun's rays cause damage to skin, so too do they damage anything that’s been left outside for too long. 

Patio Pads shares some handy tips to help keep your patio furniture looking good… 

1. Take it inside 

The best thing you can do for your furniture is to take it inside when the summer season is over. This reduces the amount of UV that falls onto it. 

This one step can extend the lifespan of your furniture dramatically. 

Clean the furniture well before storage and cover it with a cloth - that will keep it protected. 

2. Use an umbrella 

All fabrics will eventually break down if left in the sun long enough, but there are special fabrics that are designed to resist UV damage.

Fabric umbrellas can do more than keep you cool, they can also keep the sun off your patio chairs. 

If all you have is a simple chair and table set, use the umbrella as a sun shade. Just remember to take it down if it gets windy so it doesn't blow away. 

3. Try a patio cover 

If an umbrella isn’t suitable for your setup or you have a large patio, you may want to consider getting a patio cover. This is a semi-permanent awning that sits on your patio and is similar to a carport cover. 

To avoid sun damage to your furniture, use an opaque patio cover. Glass ones will still let UV rays through, though they will protect your furniture from water damage. 

4. Consider special fabrics 

All fabrics will eventually break down if left in the sun long enough, but there are special fabrics that are designed to resist UV damage. 

You should inspect items made of plastic, wood and wicker for weakness at least twice a year. This can help prevent accidents.

One popular brand is Sunbrella. By using these fabrics and following the foregoing tips, your furniture can last upwards of 10 years before you even need to think about replacing it. 

5. Use UV protection sprays 

If you don't have the option of shading or using a UV-resistant fabric, you can try a UV protection spray. These sprays are much like sunscreen for your patio furniture. 

Your patio furniture dealer should carry some variety of these sprays, simply ask him for details on how to apply it properly and how often it needs to be reapplied. 

7. Inspect for wear 

Fading fabric is the most obvious form of UV damage, but the sun can also cause plastic and woods to weaken over time. You should inspect items made of plastic, wood and wicker for weakness at least twice a year. This can help prevent accidents. 

For more solid wood pieces, make sure that the sun hasn't reduced any stain protection by splashing some water on it. It should still be beaded 15 minutes later. If the wood has soaked the water in, it's time to add more stain. 

It's not difficult to protect your furniture long enough to fully enjoy it before replacing it. Follow these tips and your furniture will look good throughout its entire life. 

Article courtesy of Patio Pads