Winterize Your Patio

Winter makes a late debut in the Valley of the Sun but it will be here nonetheless. Without proper care the dropping temperatures and occasional frost can take a toll on your outdoor living spaces. Preventative measures are the best way to prevent damage to your property and keep your investment beautiful for years to come.

Scrub Patio Cushions

Cushions can take quite a beating between pets, children and entertaining. Treat heavily soiled outdoor cushions with a soapy sponge and water and allow to dry for 48-72hrs.  If you find any mildew when cleaning your cushions, leave them in the sun (a natural mold inhibitor) and remove loosened spores with a dry sponge. Once these steps are complete your cushions are ready for storage. You can cover them with heavy duty plastic or, for the best protection, use an outdoor furniture cover.

Protect Your Wood Structures

Winter is especially hard on wood, but moisture and mildew damage are preventable. Move all chairs, tables and other furniture off any wood deck and give it a thorough sweeping to remove dead leaves and debris which are havens for bacteria and wood-wrecking mold. Once all is clear and clean, apply a water-tight seal to prevent moisture damage through the winter months.  Wooden furniture also needs special attention during this time. A good cleaning followed by a water-tight sealing agent will do wonders for your furniture’s longevity.

Clean and Store Your Patio Furniture

Regular cleaning is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your outdoor spaces in tip-top shape.  Even if you’re planning to pack away patio furniture for the winter, giving it a solid cleaning will make unveiling it this coming Spring that much more enjoyable. Start by dry wiping dust, dirt and debris off outdoor furniture before spraying everything down with clean water. If you’re willing to go the extra mile, now is a great time to treat your frames with a specialized protective formula like Paddy O’s 303 Furniture Protectant. Allow all your pieces to dry completely –pay special attention to cushions – before storing it indoors or covering it with patio-furniture covers.

Be sure to secure each cover before storing to keep pieces clear of dust and insects.

Winterizing may seem like a chore, but by taking a few extra hours early in the season you can prevent damage, preserve your investment, and be well on your way to enjoying your outdoor living areas in the coming Spring.