ATH -Prepare now for a head start next spring by winterizing outdoor furniture

  • By Jennifer Kneuss
  • October 4, 2011
  • 296
                        
Summary: Lawn chairs, deck chairs, porch swings, picnic tables – these are the workhorses of summer. Take time to make sure that these well loved items will be ready and waiting once warmer temperatures return next spring. Brrr. The cold winds are coming, and soon lazy afternoons on the deck will be but dim, pleasant memories. That outdoor furniture, however, is going to be waiting for us again next spring, as long as we make sure to take steps to protect it during the long winter months ahead. A personal favorite of many nap lovers is the ever popular rope hammock, strung in the shade in the backyard. Those stains from spilled drinks or leaves aren’t just going to disappear in storage, however. Take it down and give it a good soak in the tub, using a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly, and then hang it outdoors again on a sunny afternoon to allow it to dry thoroughly. Store it out of the elements, but don’t roll it up, as even a tiny bit of moisture can turn up as mildew or mold by spring. Hang it by the end rings in a dry spot to allow for plenty off air circulation. The same goes for chair cushions and shade umbrellas. Before you pull these items for the winter, take a nylon brush and spot clean them with mild detergent. As tempting as it might be to simply let the umbrella stay in place, closed tightly, it’s just not worth the risk. Winter winds are brutal. Take it inside for the best protection. There are vinyl treatment and protectant products on the market that work well for umbrellas as well as for vinyl lounge and lawn chairs. Read manufacturer’s instructions carefully before use, and test the product in a non-conspicuous area to insure that it doesn’t affect color. Fall is the perfect time to shine up all types of outdoor items. Remove any rust with a wire brush or steel wool, and apply a fresh coat of rust proofing paint to make your furniture look great before you put it away. Once the busy work of spring rolls around, you’ll be glad you took the time to do so in advance. Make sure that all furniture is scrubbed and clean before stacking chairs and other items. Don’t ignore the wood furniture that has served you so well all summer long. Wash it thoroughly with soap and water, and don’t be afraid to use a heavy scrub brush or sandpaper to clean out those really nasty, grimy areas. After the water dries, penetrating oil can be a good wood treatment and provides a great start for next spring. Shop around for a few furniture protective covers, or simply purchase large, sturdy tarps and secure them with rope so that they don’t blow off. You may wish to fire it the grill one last time, to burn off any excess grease, then clean all areas of the grill well using a wire brush. Baking soda works amazingly well as a cleaning product. Make sure to close the valve on the propane tank and disconnect it. It is helpful to spray some non-stick cooking spray on the racks when you’re done. Invest in a good grill cover to keep your investment in good shape, and if possible, store the grill in a sheltered area as well. Should there be an unexpected warm spell mid-winter, or even if you must wait until spring, you’ll be happy that the grill will be clean and ready to fry up a few burgers. Don’t forget the deck itself. Pull out any damaged or protruding screws or nails, and replace them immediately. Sweep all surfaces well, and remove any mats that may trap moisture against the wood. Deck cleaners and brighteners can be used to refresh surfaces, and you may wish to strip away dingy or damaged applications before refinishing the deck boards with a quality water repellent finish. Ask the experts at the paint or hardware store for suggested products.


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