Pick Out Your Perfect Patio Furniture Set in Wilmington – Trust Angersteins

How Should I Clean & Maintain Patio Furniture?

There’s no doubt that proper cleaning and maintenance of patio furniture can extend its lifespan and keep it looking great. That said, how you maintain it will depend a lot on the type of material you go with.

For recycled poly, aluminum, synthetic wicker, and natural wicker, maintenance isn’t difficult – a good wash with a soft sponge and some mild soap and water should do the trick to keep things in tip top shape. Just wipe the pieces down periodically to prevent any buildup of dirt and grime.

For wrought iron, things are a bit more extensive. Yes, cleaning with soap and water is good practice, but you also may need to address rust spots from time to time, which can require wire brushes or sandpaper to remove. It’s also wise to apply a protective coating or rust-resistant sealant to maintain its finish.

Wood also requires some extra maintenance in addition to those soap and water washdowns. If it stains, you’ll need to use a wood cleaner to remove the spots, or in more extreme cases, you might need to sand and refinish the area. In addition, we’d recommend applying a wood sealant or similar product to protect against moisture and UV rays.

And no matter what type of material you go with, regularly inspecting the pieces is always recommended. By staying diligent and looking for any signs of wear or damage, you can get on top of any issues long before they worsen. Oh – and don’t forget to cover or move pieces inside when the weather gets too harsh!

Can Patio Furniture Be Left Outside Year-Round?

Generally speaking, no – at least not here in the Wilmington area where we face harsher winters and rainy springs. That said, like with most questions regarding patio furniture, this can vary a bit based on the material you go with.

• Recycled Poly: Recycled poly furniture is pretty durable against all types of weather, so it may fair just fine being left out all year. That said, it’s still a good idea to cover or store it during extreme weather conditions, such as during severe storms or heavy snowfall.
• Aluminum: Aluminum is rust-resistant and can handle various weather conditions, so it can sometimes be suitable for year-round outdoor use. That said, it’ll get pretty cold in the winter, so covering it or storing it may be your best bet.
• Wrought Iron: Wrought iron is sturdy, yes, but it can be prone to rust. It requires regular maintenance, including rust prevention treatments. In our area, where heavy snow or rain isn’t uncommon, covering or storing it during harsh weather is advisable.
• Synthetic Wicker: Synthetic wicker is designed to be weather-resistant and can handle quite a bit. Yet, while it’s durable, covering it during heavy rain or snowfall can prevent potential damage to any underlying materials or cushions.
• Natural Wicker: Natural wicker is susceptible to moisture damage, mold, and fading, so it’s best to cover or store these pieces during harsh weather – and definitely bring it indoors for winter.
• Wood: Wood furniture, particularly when treated with sealants or oils, can withstand outdoor conditions to some extent. That said, it is prone to warping, cracking, and weathering if left outside year-round.

Turn Your Patio Into an Oasis With Us

When it comes to enhancing your outdoor space in Wilmington, Angersteins is the name you can trust in for it all. Our knowledgeable staff is dedicated to helping you find the perfect patio furniture set that fits your lifestyle and budget, and we can help with anything else you need too – think hardscaping, lighting options, and more.

Reach out to us today and experience the difference quality and expertise can make. Your dream patio is just a visit away.