Does Garden Furniture Need to be Covered Every Night?

Your garden furniture offers a comfortable spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. But as dusk settles in, a nagging question arises: should you cover them every night?

Leaving your outdoor pieces exposed to the elements can lead to premature wear and tear. This can cue diminished aesthetic appeal and durability. So in this blog, we will uncover the question of whether “night covering” can make a difference. If so, how? Read on!

The Benefits of Covering Garden Furniture

Furniture covers offer several benefits, which all be explained in detail below:

Protection from weather elements

Garden furniture is constantly exposed to the whims of nature. Rain, snow, and excessive sunlight can wreak havoc on its materials. Take wooden furniture, for instance. Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to warping, swelling, and rotting.

Fabric cushions and upholstery are particularly vulnerable to fading and damage. This is especially true when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. By covering your furniture, you create a barrier that shields them from the elements. Covers also help preserve the original appearance and structural integrity of the set.

Prevention of rust and corrosion

If your garden furniture includes metal components, covering it becomes even more crucial. Metal furniture is susceptible to rust and corrosion when exposed to moisture. Their proneness is higher in humid climates or near bodies of water.

With covers, you provide a protective layer that prevents moisture from seeping in. This also helps inhibit the formation of rust.

Reducing UV damage

The sun’s UV rays can cause significant damage to furniture fabrics and finishes over time. Sunlight can fade vibrant colours, weaken fibres, and degrade the material quality.

But by covering your garden furniture when not in use, you shield it from direct exposure to UV rays. This practice helps prolong its lifespan and maintain its visual appeal.

Factors to Consider When Covering at Night

When the furniture needs to be covered at night, several factors are to be considered:

1. Climate

The climate in which you reside influences the need for covering garden furniture. Different regions experience varying levels of moisture, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations.

In areas with high rainfall, covering can provide protection against excess moisture. In sunny and hot climates, covering helps shield it from prolonged sunlight exposure.

2. Material of the furniture

The type of furniture material can determine its susceptibility to weather damage. Wood, for instance, is sensitive to moisture. It may require more consistent covering in humid or rainy climates.

Metal furniture is prone to rust and corrosion. It can benefit from protective covers to prevent moisture buildup. Synthetic rattan, in contrast, is generally more resilient to weather conditions. It may require less frequent covering, unlike the other two.

3. Quality of construction

The furniture’s quality construction can affect its ability to withstand the elements. Well-built furniture tends to fare better without constant covering, often with features like:

• sturdy frames
• durable finishes
• weather-resistant materials

High-quality outdoor furniture often incorporates protective features like waterproof coatings or UV-resistant finishes. Such qualities make them more resilient against weather-related damage. Meanwhile, lower-quality or poorly constructed furniture may require additional protection. For one, the pieces may be more susceptible to degradation and wear.

Consider these factors when deciding whether to cover your garden furniture every night. It will help you balance the need for protection by covering your patio sets.

When Covering Is Essential

Covering garden furniture every night may not be necessary for all circumstances. But there are situations where it becomes essential for its optimal protection.

Regions prone to extreme weather pose a significant risk to garden furniture. In such cases, covering the furniture every night becomes crucial. Excessive rain can saturate materials, leading to warping, rotting, or mould growth. Snow accumulation can cause structural damage or waterlogging. Intense sunlight can fade and weaken fabrics and finishes. By providing a protective layer, covers help mitigate these risks.

When you’re away or not using your garden furniture for an extended period, covering is essential. During these times, the furniture is left exposed to the elements.

Covering helps maintain its condition, preventing deterioration. Even if the weather seems mild during your absence, unexpected changes can occur. This makes it prudent to cover the furniture for added peace of mind.

Some garden furniture materials require extra care and protection. Especially for those with delicate nature or high-maintenance requirements. Unfinished wood is susceptible to moisture absorption. If overlooked, it can lead to warping, splitting, or rotting. Thus, covering furniture can provide an added layer of defence. The covers will help maintain their integrity and prolong their lifespan.

In these situations, covering garden furniture every night becomes essential. By doing so, you ensure that your furniture remains in optimal condition for years to come.

Round-up

The need to cover garden furniture every night depends on various factors, such as:

• climate
• material
• specific circumstances

While covering offers significant benefits, it may not be necessary in all situations. But regions with harsh weather, extended periods of non-use, or delicate materials do. In such circumstances, nightly covering helps ensure optimal protection.