How To Tarp Patio Furniture For Winter

How to Tarp Patio Furniture for Winter

As the temperatures start to drop and the days get shorter, it's time to start thinking about how to protect your patio furniture from the harsh winter weather. One of the best ways to do this is to tarp the furniture. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it properly:

1. Clean the Furniture

Before you tarp the furniture, it's important to clean it thoroughly. This will remove any dirt, dust, or debris that could damage the furniture over the winter. Use a mild soap and water solution and a soft cloth to clean the furniture. Rinse the furniture thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely before tarping it.

2. Cover the Furniture with a Tarp

Once the furniture is clean and dry, it's time to cover it with a tarp. Choose a tarp that is large enough to cover the furniture completely, and make sure that the tarp is waterproof and UV-resistant. Place the tarp over the furniture and secure it with bungee cords or straps. Make sure that the tarp is pulled tight so that it doesn't flap in the wind and damage the furniture.

3. Secure the Tarp

Once the tarp is in place, it's important to secure it so that it doesn't blow away in the wind. You can do this by tying the bungee cords or straps to something heavy, such as a tree or a piece of furniture. You can also use weights to hold the tarp down. Place the weights around the edges of the tarp and secure them with bungee cords or straps.

4. Check the Tarp Regularly

Once the tarp is in place, it's important to check it regularly to make sure that it's still secure. If the tarp is damaged or has come loose, it could allow water or snow to get on the furniture and damage it. Check the tarp after every storm or high-wind event.

Additional Tips

Here are a few additional tips for tarping patio furniture for winter:

If you have any cushions or pillows for your patio furniture, be sure to store them indoors for the winter. Moisture can damage the cushions and pillows, so it's important to keep them dry.
If you have any metal patio furniture, be sure to apply a rust-resistant coating to it before you tarp it. This will help to protect the metal from rusting over the winter.
If you live in an area with heavy snow, you may want to consider using a snow cover in addition to a tarp. A snow cover will help to protect the furniture from snow and ice damage.

By following these tips, you can help to protect your patio furniture from the harsh winter weather and keep it looking its best for years to come.