Can Rattan Furniture Survive Winter?

As winter’s chill descends, many outdoor enthusiasts grapple with a common dilemma. And that is: what to do with their cherished rattan garden furniture?

Rattan’s elegant charm and comfort have made it a staple in outdoor spaces. However, the harsh realities of weather can pose significant challenges.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the unique attributes of the rattan furniture. We will assess its resilience in the face of frost and snow — winter, in particular. Read on and discover if yours can truly weather the wintering months.

Understanding Rattan Furniture

Rattan furniture is a versatile and stylish option for indoor and outdoor settings. Over the years, the materials available have spanned from natural to synthetic.

To start, genuine rattan is crafted from the stems of the rattan palm. A renewable vine that is known for its durability and flexibility. Its lightweight yet robust structure and natural aesthetic make it a sought-after choice.

Then there’s the synthetic rattan furniture, designed to mimic the look of natural rattan. It excels as outdoor furniture due to its:

• exceptional durability
• resistance to moisture and UV rays

When investing in one, it’s essential to distinguish between natural and synthetic. Natural rattan offers an authentic, eco-friendly appeal. In contrast, synthetic rattan is typically made from polyethene or other synthetic materials. Besides the ‘almost natural look’, it provides added weather resistance and easy maintenance. 

Understanding these aids in choosing the right rattan furniture for your specific needs.

Potential Winter Risks

(Image Credit: Flickr)

1. Exposure to moisture

Winter brings increased moisture levels, from rain and snow to frost and dew. Both natural and synthetic rattan can absorb water. If overlooked, this can lead to swelling, warping, and mould or mildew growth.

2. Temperature fluctuations

Drastic temperature changes common in winter can cause rattan to contract and expand. This can potentially result in cracks, splits, or weakened structural integrity.

3. Snow and ice

Accumulating snow and ice can add excessive weight and pressure on rattan furniture. This can cause it to bend or break under the load.

4. UV radiation

While winter might seem dull, UV radiation remains a concern. Prolonged exposure can fade and weaken rattan fibres. In turn, this causes your BillyOh garden furniture to become brittle and lose its lustre.

The detrimental effects

These factors are detrimental because they compromise its structural integrity and aesthetics. Moisture-related issues can lead to decay, while temperature fluctuations weaken the material. Snow and ice can physically damage the furniture. Meanwhile, UV radiation accelerates wear and tear.

Proper maintenance and protective measures of your rattan outdoor furniture are crucial. With a routine, you can mitigate these risks and ensure your set’s survival during winter.

Preparing Garden Rattan Furniture for Winter

With these steps, you can prolong the lifespan of your rattan pieces during the winter season:

Step 1: Cleaning and maintenance

• Begin by gently cleaning the rattan with a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt and debris.
• For deeper cleaning, mix mild soap with water and lightly scrub the surface. Make sure not to oversaturate.
• Rinse with clean water and let it dry thoroughly to prevent moisture retention.
• Apply a rattan-specific conditioner to keep the material supple.

Step 2: Covering or storing

• Consider covering them with weather-resistant garden furniture covers UK when not in use.
• If space permits, store the furniture indoors. Or in a dry, sheltered area, such as in a BillyOh pent shed, to shield it from extreme weather.

Step 3: Using protective coatings or sealants

• Apply a protective sealant designed for rattan. Doing so will create a barrier against moisture and UV rays. Be sure to follow the product’s instructions.

Step 4: Positioning furniture strategically

• Place the furniture in a spot that minimises direct exposure to rain, snow, and sunlight.
• Elevate it slightly to prevent contact with cold, damp ground.

Can Rattan Made Furniture Survive Winter?

The type and quality of rattan used play a significant role. High-quality natural rattan or premium synthetic rattan tends to withstand winter conditions better. Quality rattan is more resistant to moisture, UV damage, and temperature fluctuations.

Regular upkeep is crucial. Cleaning, conditioning, and applying protective coatings or sealants are key. They can ensure that rattan remains resilient against moisture and UV radiation. Maintenance prevents the development of mould, mildew, or rot.

The severity of your local winter climate affects rattan’s survival. For instance, the following factors can pose greater challenges:

• harsher conditions with prolonged freezing temperatures
• heavy snowfall
• excessive moisture

In milder climates, rattan may fare better with less intensive care. Overall, these three will determine how well rattan furniture survives the winter.

Wondering where to find your ideal furniture pieces? Look no further than BillyOh! We proudly present a diverse selection of top-notch rattan sets. Explore our range: rattan garden furniture with fire pit and rattan corner furniture.

What’s up next for you to discover: How To Store Rattan Garden Furniture