Your outdoor furniture is an investment that extends your living space. Since the weather changes from season to season, you want to keep your patio tables and furniture looking fresh and new. Coverings add a layer of protection, but not all products are created equal. Your friendly team at F&J Outdoors suggests the following tips to avoid common mistakes when selecting your next patio table and furniture covers.
Quality Counts
Quality tops the list because the covers you use should protect your furniture. You may be in for a surprise if you select lower-quality covers due to lower costs. Lower-quality craftsmanship and materials are used and don’t last very long. You’ll probably have to replace them sooner than you think. Invest in a top-quality waterproof cover made from strong, durable fabric that will last and properly protect your table from sun, wind, water, and other elements. F&J Outdoors also suggests selecting covers that include tightening cords for additional protection.
Correct Size Counts
Selecting the right size cover is also an important part of a long-lasting, protective patio table cover. If it is too loose or too tight, too long or too short, the furniture it is supposedly protecting could damage the furniture, blow off, or collect dirt and debris. Measuring outdoor patio tables and furniture is important, including the height and width of the highest and lowest points. Additionally, measure the depth of the tables. If you need measurement advice, the friendly expert team at F&J Outdoors is happy to assist.
Securing Patio Table Covers Counts
Many quality patio table covers include straps, elastic hems, Velcro, zippers, leg ties, and other fasteners for an additional layer of protection. Avoid products that don’t include these additional protective features. Straps will keep the table cover tight on windy days while keeping it neat and stretched so water can run off, avoiding accumulation onto the furniture.
Withstanding Weather Elements Counts
Patio furniture covers are available in a variety of materials, some designed for warmer climates, some for hotter ones. Always select one that is appropriate for your climate and weather conditions. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specs. Select a UV stable product so it can protect your patio table and furniture from sun damage.
The Inside Fabric Counts
It’s common to focus on the outside of the patio cover and not the inside, which has direct contact with your furniture. A soft inside will prevent scratches, smudges, and other unexpected damage on your furniture’s wicker, wood, paint, or metal surfaces. Always remember to check the underneath of the cover for soft fabric, seam reinforcement, and thickness.
Outdoor Fabric Counts
Outdoor patio overs should be lightweight, easy to store and offer durable protection for your furniture. Where you store your outdoor patio table, and furniture will help you make the decision. Vinyl is perfect for storing your furniture inside; it’s strong and works great in climate-controlled environments. Polyester is a more robust and scratch-resistant fabric that protects outdoor patio furniture from debris without scratches. It is also great for outdoors because it protects against UV rays, color fading, water damage, mold, and mildew. Polyester covers fit more snugly than vinyl and keep out dust, debris, and water.
