Home & Garden

Useful Ways to Make Your Old Garden Furniture Look Good as New

Like everything else, garden furniture does not last forever. It is normal to expect wear & tear over time such as chips and cracks, but this does not necessarily mean that you immediately have to throw out your old furniture and go and buy new one. With just a little tender love and care, you can increase the lifespan of your furniture and these useful tips can help you out.

1. Watch out for rust

Watch out for rust on cast iron garden furniture
Watch out for rust on cast iron garden furniture

When it comes to furniture made out of steel or cast iron, rust is your worst enemy. Everything else is secondary in terms of seriousness as long as you keep your furniture rust-free. In order to do so, you should inspect it regularly and, if you find reddish rust stains appearing, sand down the area down to the bare metal. After this you can add a layer of prime and then a new coat of metal paint, preferably rust resistant.

2. Don’t use detergents on umbrellas

Don’t use detergents on Garden umbrellas and Outdoor Cushions
Don’t use detergents on Garden umbrellas and Outdoor Cushions

This tip applies to outdoor cushions, as well. Most of them have a layer of acrylic or polyester-coated vinyl fabric in order to stay protected from moisture and stains. If you use detergents, they can remove this layer so stick to soap and water and be gentle. When it is time to store the umbrellas inside for the winter, make sure that they are thoroughly dry in order to avoid mildew.

3. Don’t use alkaline products on aluminum

Don’t use alkaline products on aluminum furniture
Don’t use alkaline products on aluminum furniture

Furniture made out of aluminum usually has a clear finish which prevents corrosion. This layer would be destroyed by using alkaline products so avoid doing so. Only use safe cleaning products and treat the furniture with car wax afterwards in order to prolong its lifespan.

If you ever need new furniture for your backyard or garden such as a 10×10 canopy, you can find one at http://www.yescomusa.com. They have a lot of quality products available and they are all accessible and within your budget.