How To Protect Your Outdoor Furniture
Suns out! Having access to an outdoor space is great when enjoying these summer months and is also a highly sought after added asset when putting your home on the Maltese property market. While shopping for the necessities to build your perfect outdoor oasis can be easy and fun, knowing the right way to care for your new outdoor set can be a little more challenging. Investing in the right products to help prolong their life span now will help to add value to your property in the future.
There are many things to think about when preparing for the worst when considering outside furniture. There’s water damage, elevated temperatures, and the scorching Maltese summer sun to think about and actively prepare for. While many outdoor pieces contain weather-resistant materials like UV grade fabric and foam, rust-free coated aluminium and rot-resistant wood, the additional care and maintenance is needed and will make a difference in the long run. Here are some helpful tips to help you keep your outdoor furniture looking bright and fresh this summer.
Firstly, say yes to furniture coverings. Although having to cover up your outside space may be tedious especially after a day of fun in the sun, it is the best method to get full protection from the sun and humidity. Furniture coverings ensure protection against weather conditions. When purchasing look for ones made of highly durable materials such as Oxford polyester ensuring a long lifespan.
If you’ve opted for wicker or wrought iron chairs, cushions will be necessary. Though they’re invaluable for these uncomfortable types of benches they are sensitive and are easily damaged by the rain. Protecting these fabrics is fairly simple, a first wash with mild dish soap and warm water is necessary before spraying with a fabric protector.
Finding a durable, fade-resistant yet chic rug maybe a mission though it will be worth the effort when you find the perfect mat to place underneath any furnishing pieces you may have outside. Natural is the way to go when you’re looking for something to complete the look and keep the floor, you and your furniture dry, cool and clean. Woven rugs made from natural materials like poly silk are great for outdoors as they are also mould and mildew resistant and also repel moisture making spills and stains easy to remove.
Follow the shade! Never underestimate the difference placing a piece of furniture in the shade can make. Keep your cool by placing outdoor pieces in the shade when possible. Just as the sun may have an effect on our skin, it can also affect the colour of materials. Skip the sunburn and invest in a UV-rated umbrella that will protect your furniture as well as you and your loved ones from harmful UV-rays. If you’re looking for extra sun protection and own metal or plastic furniture a simple coat of outdoor furniture protector will do the trick.
The coasters and placemats that you swore you would never own.. They’re useful. Using table cloths and placemats can save a multitude of problems from arising. When enjoying a meal al fresco using stylish yet practical coasters will help to protect ring stains from condensed icy drinks.
After a lovely day soaking up the sun, it takes a few minutes to clean up and cover-up. Possibly the most important tip of them all. Keep it clean! Covering your furniture doesn't necessarily mean it’s going to stay clean as they will eventually accrue dirt and mould. In order to avoid a build-up of the elements like dust, rain and dirt wiping your pieces down is essential. Rinsing the sunblock and chlorine off your pieces will save major damage that they can cause. Removing any cushions and allowing them to dry is essential when trying to make them last. Once all pieces have dried cover up with their corresponding waterproof covers and store in a cool, dry place.
Real estate agents in Malta are on the lookout for well taken care of outdoor spaces which will be welcoming for families and couples alike. Especially in these summer months, the Malta and Gozo property market values homes that value the importance of the outdoors.