Given that we’re now in summer, you may not be thinking too much about protecting your garden furniture. The weather in the UK can be unpredictable though, with heavy rain and strong winds possible at any time of year. Whether that will affect your furniture or not depends on what it is made from.
Wicker and rattan
Some types of wicker and rattan garden furniture can be left outside – while other types need to be stored indoors. If your furniture is made from synthetic rattan or wicker, leaving it outside should be no problem. Both materials are highly durable and completely waterproof.
This is not the case for natural wicker or rattan though. Those materials will split and crack if exposed to the rain, wind or heat for extended periods, so you should keep them indoors when not in use.
Aluminium
This metal is very durable and is impervious to the rain and the sun. It does not rust and is in no danger of fading or cracking when exposed to UV rays. This means it can be safely left outside most of the time. The only exception to that rule is if strong winds are expected, because aluminium is lightweight.
Hardwood
Hardwood furniture will not be seriously damaged by wind, rain or sunshine, but it can still suffer effects. The wood will start to develop a faded look. You can avoid that by storing it indoors or by purchasing some Lifestyle garden furniture covers.
This should help you to decide on the right type of garden furniture for you.
