You’ve invested time and money into creating the perfect outdoor oasis on your patio, but when hurricane season rolls around, protecting your beloved furniture becomes a top priority. As strong winds and torrential rains threaten to wreak havoc on your patio, you’ll want to ensure that your furniture remains safe and secure. In this article, we’ll explore some practical tips and advice on how to safeguard your patio furniture during a hurricane, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your outdoor haven will weather the storm.
Preparing in Advance
Stay informed about hurricane warnings
When it comes to protecting your patio furniture during a hurricane, preparation is key. One of the most important things you can do is stay informed about hurricane warnings. Keep an eye on local weather forecasts and pay attention to any updates or warnings issued by your local authorities. This will give you a head start in making necessary preparations to protect your patio furniture.
Create a hurricane preparedness plan
Having a well-thought-out hurricane preparedness plan in place can make a big difference when it comes to safeguarding your patio furniture. Start by assessing the potential risks and vulnerabilities of your outdoor space. This will help you determine the best course of action for protecting your furniture. Consider factors such as the strength of the hurricane, the location of your patio, and the type of furniture you have.
Secure or store patio furniture ahead of time
Before a hurricane hits, it’s important to secure or store your patio furniture to prevent any damage. High winds can easily turn lightweight furniture into dangerous projectiles, causing damage to your property or even injuring someone. Secure lightweight furniture by bringing it indoors whenever possible. For larger, heavier items, anchor them to the ground to keep them from being blown away. If bringing furniture indoors or anchoring it isn’t an option, use tie-downs or straps to secure it in place. Additionally, covering your furniture with waterproof tarps will provide an extra layer of protection against water damage. Lastly, consider disassembling or removing any loose parts that could be easily damaged or lost during a storm.
Securing Outdoor Furniture
Bring lightweight furniture indoors
When a hurricane is approaching, it’s always a good idea to bring lightweight furniture indoors. Lightweight chairs, tables, and other smaller items can easily be picked up by strong winds and become projectiles that can cause damage. By bringing these items inside your home or storing them in a secure area, you can minimize the risk of them being blown away or damaged.
Anchor heavy furniture to the ground
For larger and heavier pieces of outdoor furniture, anchoring them to the ground is the best way to protect them during a hurricane. Use stakes or anchors specifically designed for outdoor furniture to secure them firmly to the ground. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. By anchoring your furniture, you can prevent it from being blown away by high winds and potentially causing damage to your property or neighboring structures.
Use tie-downs or straps to secure furniture
If bringing your outdoor furniture indoors or anchoring it to the ground isn’t possible, using tie-downs or straps is an effective alternative. Secure your furniture to sturdy fixtures, such as trees or posts, using strong straps or ropes. Make sure to fasten the straps tightly to prevent any movement or shifting during the storm. By properly securing your furniture with tie-downs or straps, you can significantly reduce the risk of it being lifted or blown away by hurricane-force winds.
Cover furniture with waterproof tarps
To provide an extra layer of protection against water damage, cover your outdoor furniture with waterproof tarps. Secure the tarps tightly around the furniture using bungee cords or sturdy straps. This will help to prevent rainwater from seeping into the furniture and causing potential damage, such as mold or rot. Additionally, covering your furniture with tarps can also offer some protection against debris or falling branches during the hurricane.
Disassemble or remove loose parts
Before a hurricane hits, take the time to disassemble or remove any loose parts from your outdoor furniture. This includes items such as cushions, glass tabletops, and detachable accessories. Storing these parts in a safe, dry place indoors will prevent them from becoming damaged or lost during the storm. Disassembling or removing loose parts will also help reduce the wind resistance of your furniture, making it less likely to be damaged or blown away by strong winds.
Protecting Cushions and Pillows
Store cushions and pillows in a dry location
To protect your cushions and pillows during a hurricane, it’s essential to store them in a dry location. Moisture from rain can cause mold, mildew, and rot, leading to irreversible damage. Prior to the hurricane, remove the cushions and pillows from your outdoor furniture and store them inside your home or a waterproof storage container. Make sure the storage area is dry, well-ventilated, and away from any potential water leaks.
Use waterproof covers or bags
Another way to protect your cushions and pillows during a hurricane is by using waterproof covers or bags. Before storing them, place each cushion and pillow inside a protective cover or bag made from waterproof materials. This will provide an additional layer of defense against water damage. Ensure that the covers or bags are tightly secured to prevent any moisture from seeping in.
Consider vacuum-sealing for added protection
For added protection against moisture and water damage, consider vacuum-sealing your cushions and pillows. Vacuum-sealed storage bags remove the air, reducing the likelihood of water seeping in and causing damage. This method can be particularly useful if you’re facing an extreme weather event or if you need long-term storage for your cushions and pillows. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the vacuum-sealing bags to ensure a proper seal.
Storing Small Decorative Items
Remove and store small decorative pieces
To safeguard your small decorative pieces, it’s best to remove and store them in a secure location before a hurricane. Items such as small figurines, lanterns, or fragile decorations can easily be damaged or blown away by strong winds. By removing these items and storing them indoors, you can minimize the risk of loss or damage.
Secure lightweight items to prevent flying
If you have lightweight decorations that cannot be easily removed or stored, take the necessary steps to secure them. Use strong tape, adhesive putty, or Velcro to attach these lightweight items to a stable surface or support. This will prevent them from becoming airborne during the hurricane, reducing the chances of damage to your property or injuries to others.
Place delicate items in padded containers
For delicate or fragile decorative items, it’s important to provide additional protection by placing them in padded containers. This will help absorb any shock or impact that may occur during a storm. Use packing materials, such as bubble wrap or foam, to cushion and secure these items inside the containers. Label the containers appropriately to ensure easy identification when it’s time to retrieve and redecorate your patio.
Taking Care of Umbrellas
Close and secure patio umbrellas
One of the first steps to protect your patio umbrellas during a hurricane is to close and secure them properly. Leaving umbrellas open during strong winds can cause them to become damaged or torn apart. Close the umbrella and ensure that it is securely fastened. Use straps or ties designed for umbrellas to keep them firmly closed. Additionally, consider removing the umbrella fabric and storing it indoors for extra protection.
Store smaller umbrellas indoors
If you have smaller umbrellas that can be easily removed, it’s best to bring them indoors before the hurricane arrives. Smaller umbrellas are more vulnerable to damage due to their size and weight. Storing them safely indoors will protect them from high winds, rain, and other potential hazards that can cause significant damage.
Use a weighted base for larger umbrellas
For larger patio umbrellas that cannot be readily removed, using a weighted base is essential for their stability and protection. A weighted base will help prevent the umbrella from tipping over or being blown away. Consider investing in a heavy-duty base or anchor designed for larger umbrellas. Make sure to properly secure the umbrella to the base and ensure a tight fit to provide maximum stability.
Protecting Metal Furniture
Apply a layer of protective wax or sealant
To protect metal furniture from the elements, it’s beneficial to apply a layer of protective wax or sealant. This helps to create a barrier between the metal surface and any moisture, preventing rust and corrosion. Before applying the wax or sealant, thoroughly clean and dry the furniture to remove any dirt, debris, or existing rust. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific product you are using.
Cover metal furniture with rust-resistant paint
Another effective way to protect your metal furniture is by covering it with a rust-resistant paint. Choose a high-quality outdoor paint formulated to withstand harsh weather conditions. Before painting, make sure to remove any existing rust or peeling paint. Apply multiple coats of paint, allowing sufficient drying time between each coat. This will help provide a durable barrier against water and other forms of damage.
Store metal furniture in a dry area
If possible, store your metal furniture indoors or in a dry area to protect it during a hurricane. Moisture is one of the main culprits behind rust and corrosion, so keeping your metal furniture away from rain and humidity is essential. If bringing the furniture indoors is not feasible, consider using a waterproof cover to shield it from the elements. Ensure that the cover is securely fastened to prevent it from getting blown away by strong winds.
Hanging Hammocks and Swings
Remove hammocks and swings
Hammocks and swings can pose a significant risk during a hurricane, especially if they are left hanging freely. To prevent any damage or accidents, it’s essential to remove hammocks and swings from their hanging locations before the storm arrives. Carefully disassemble or detach them from their supports and store them indoors or in a sturdy shed.
Store them indoors or in a sturdy shed
Once you have removed hammocks and swings from their hanging locations, it’s important to store them properly. Indoor storage is the best option, but if that’s not possible, consider storing them in a sturdy shed. The key is to keep these items sheltered and protected from the extreme weather conditions that hurricanes can bring. This will help prolong their lifespan and ensure they are ready to use once the storm has passed.
Securing Plants and Pots
Bring potted plants indoors
Potted plants are highly susceptible to damage from hurricane-force winds, heavy rains, and flying debris. To protect your plants, it’s recommended to bring them indoors before the storm hits. Find a suitable location in your home where the plants can receive sufficient light and ventilation. Ensure that the area is free from drafts and away from any potential water leaks.
Move larger plants to a safe and sheltered location
If bringing all your potted plants indoors is not feasible due to size or space constraints, it’s advisable to move larger plants to a safe and sheltered location. This could be a covered patio, garage, or other protected areas where the plants can be shielded from excessive wind and rain. Ensure that the chosen location provides adequate protection and can withstand severe weather conditions.
Secure potted plants to prevent tipping
Even if you’re unable to bring all your potted plants indoors or move them to a sheltered location, securing them can greatly reduce the risk of tipping over or getting damaged. Place heavy objects or bricks around the base of each pot to provide stability and prevent them from being easily blown away. Additionally, consider using plant ties or stakes to secure tall plants to a fence or railing for added stability.
Protecting Wood Furniture
Apply a weather-resistant sealant or paint
Wood furniture is particularly vulnerable to damage from water and moisture. To protect your wooden patio furniture, it’s crucial to apply a weather-resistant sealant or paint. This will help create a protective barrier and prevent water from penetrating the wood’s surface. Prior to applying the sealant or paint, thoroughly clean the furniture and ensure it is dry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific product you are using.
Cover wooden furniture with waterproof tarps
In addition to applying a sealant or paint, covering your wooden furniture with waterproof tarps provides an extra layer of protection against water damage. Make sure the tarps are securely fastened to the furniture using bungee cords or sturdy straps. This will help prevent rainwater from seeping into the wood and causing rot or mold. When covering your furniture, ensure that the tarps adequately protect all exposed surfaces.
Store wooden furniture in a dry place
If possible, store your wooden furniture indoors or in a dry area to protect it from the elements. Moisture is a primary enemy of wooden furniture, as it can lead to warping, rotting, and other forms of damage. If indoor storage is not an option, consider using a waterproof cover to protect the furniture from rain and humidity. Ensure that the cover is secure and properly fitted to prevent it from being blown away during the storm.
Clearing the Surrounding Area
Remove any loose debris or objects
Before a hurricane strikes, it’s crucial to clear your patio and the surrounding area of any loose debris or objects that could potentially become airborne during high winds. Regularly inspect and remove items such as planters, toys, or any other loose outdoor accessories. By doing so, you can reduce the risk of damage to your property and minimize the potential danger to yourself and others.
Trim trees and branches near the patio
Overhanging trees and branches pose a significant risk to your patio and outdoor furniture during a hurricane. Strong winds can easily blow them onto your furniture, causing severe damage. Trim back any trees or branches that are close to your patio and pose a threat. If you’re unsure about the best course of action, consult with a professional tree service to assess and safely trim any potential hazards.
Secure or bring in outdoor accessories
To prevent outdoor accessories from becoming flying debris during a hurricane, secure or bring them indoors. This includes items such as bird feeders, wind chimes, garden sculptures, and any other loose objects that could be easily picked up by strong winds. Use strong tape, adhesive putty, or other fastening methods to secure these items to a stable surface or support. Alternatively, consider storing them indoors until the storm has passed.
By following these comprehensive guidelines, you can effectively protect your patio furniture from the damaging effects of a hurricane. Remember, early preparation is essential for minimizing potential risks and ensuring the longevity of your outdoor furniture. Stay informed, create a hurricane preparedness plan, and take the necessary steps to secure, cover, and store your furniture and outdoor accessories. With proper precautions in place, you can weather the storm and emerge with your patio furniture intact and ready to enjoy once the hurricane has passed. Stay safe and be well-prepared!