Increasing the Lifespan of Your PE Garden Furniture: The Ultimate Guide
When it comes to outdoor living, there's nothing quite as delightful as having a beautifully furnished garden. PE (Polyethylene) garden furniture like rattan, wicker, or cane is a popular choice for many people for its aesthetic appeal and longevity. However, even the sturdiest of these items can fall prey to the elements without proper care.
By caring for your PE garden furniture properly, increasing its lifespan becomes a simple matter. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss practical steps you can take to extend the lifespan of your PE garden furniture. So, buckle up as we dive into the world of garden furniture care and preservation.
1. Regular Cleaning is Essential
The first thing you need to keep in mind is that an attuned cleaning routine is key to preventing damage and extending the furniture's life.
For this, you would require the following:
- A mild soap solution
- A soft scrubbing brush
- A garden hose (for rinsing)
Proceed to gently scrub the furniture with the brush dipped in the mild soap solution. Always make sure to rinse the furniture completely and dry it thoroughly before using it or placing cushions on it. This prevents moisture-induced damage.
2. Shelter Your Furniture
PE garden furniture is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, but this doesn't imply that it is indestructible. Continuous exposure to the sun and rain can wear down your furniture over time.
Therefore, during extreme weather, such as heavy rains, heatwaves, or snowstorms, it is always a good idea to move your furniture under a shaded area or inside. The same applies if you're not using your furniture for an extended period. Consider investing in good quality garden furniture covers – they can go a long way in protecting your PE furniture against weather elements.
3. Regular Maintenance
Another crucial factor in ensuring the long life of your PE garden furniture involves regular maintenance. This includes checking for any loose screws or bolts from time to time and tightening them as required.
You could also consider applying a UV-protective wax or spray to your PE garden furniture to protect it from too much sun exposure. Just be sure to check that the product you choose is suitable for PE materials before application. Perfect maintenance will not only increase the furniture's lifespan but also retain its appeal.
4. Prevent Stains and Spills
While PE garden furniture is generally resistant to stains, preventing spills is always a better plan than dealing with them later. Direct hits from beverages, oils, acids, or even bird droppings can leave lasting stains if not cleaned promptly.
Hence, ensure to clean up any spills as soon as they occur with a soft, damp cloth. For stubborn stains, resort to mild soap solution and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives as they can ruin the furniture's finish.
5. Winterize Your Furniture
As colder months approach, it is essential to winterize your PE garden furniture. While PE is a robust material, extended exposure to freezing cold and snow can lead to damage.
The process can involve giving the furniture a thorough cleaning, allowing it to completely dry, and storing it away in your garage or shed. If storage space is an issue, consider investing in heavy-duty, waterproof covers that can offer protection from snow and frost.
In conclusion, by cleaning regularly, providing appropriate shelter, maintaining regularly, preventing stains and spills, and winterizing, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your PE garden furniture. While these tasks may require time and effort, the results are certainly worth it. By taking care of your garden furniture, you not only prolong its life but also help it retain its good looks for a long time, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space for years to come.