If you’ve purchased patio furniture in recent years you know how expensive it can be. Protecting your investment with patio furniture covers makes good sense, especially if you live in a climate prone to nasty weather. Like most purchases though, the available choices in coverings is vast and confusing. What type of material should I look for? How much should I pay? Where should I buy it from. These are all good questions for which there are multiple answers.
Patio furniture covers come in a variety of fabrics and colors, from nylons, to canvas-type materials, to space-age, high-tech products. Your best bet is to consult a local outdoor furniture shop for recommendations then go online and do some research before making a decision. Take into consideration your climate, how often you use the furniture, where it is stored, do you want it to match your stainless steel weber barbecue, and how long it is normally kept covered. Prolonged direct sunlight can wear quickly on some fabrics, while for others it’s not a problem. Likewise, some fabrics handle small amounts of rain put would be useless in severe thunderstorms. Regardless of the chosen fabric, make sure it has at least a minimum warranty.
Prices will vary from outlet to outlet, but as the story goes, you get what you pay for in most cases. Good quality covers that you can expect to last a long time will cost more than the generic items you might find at your local discount retailers. Custom covers often times are the best, but they are also the most expensive. Sheet plastic and nylon tarps should be avoided because they don’t allow good air circulation. Without air the furniture does not “breathe” so metal furniture will rust more quickly, wood will rot faster, and plastic will develop mold more easily. It’s best to look for a two or three-layered material that resists water and sunlight but allows for air flow.
You can find the less expensive covers at local department stores and home improvement centers, especially those that sell patio furniture similar to yours. If that option doesn’t yield good results, swimming pool centers almost always carry furniture and covers. If they don’t have covers that fit your furniture they can usually order them in from an outside source. The next option is to look for a local business that manufactures boat or auto covers. They will probably be able to make furniture covers to your specifications. Shopping online will probably help you find lower prices but don’t forget to take into consideration the difficulty you could have if there’s a problem with the product. This might be a case where the local retailer is a better option.
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