Outdoor seating is a crucial component of the patio, garden, or balcony, as it serves to provide comfort and style to those who want to sit out in such places as well as take part in social events or simply to relax. Nevertheless, exposure to the elements – sunshine, rainfall, winds and dust can easily lead to damage, which lowers the life span of your furniture. Outdoor furniture covers come in handy as they protect your furnishings and ensure that they remain in great condition. In this article, we will try to explain why covers are necessary, look at most common types of outdoor furniture covers dubai available in the market and give some advice on how to select and take care of them.
Why Outdoor Seating Covers Are A Must For Furniture
Weather Protection
For the most part, outdoor seating cushions are subjected to sunshine that could lead to loss of color and degradation of materials over time. It is also important to note that rain and moisture can as well be a source of damage to cushions, fabrics and metals by causing rust, mold, and mildew. Properly manufactured outdoor sofa covers act as protectors of your furniture from such elements enhancing their durability.
Avoiding the Absorption of Dust and Silt
In many climatological regions, outdoor furniture can get dust and dirt quickly in places exposed to the wind during dry seasons, or even just sitting outside. Along with reducing the frequency of cleaning, covers help keep seating arrangements clean which makes outdoor space appealing and saves time and energy.
Improving Durability of The Furniture
Sitting outdoors is costly and protective covers make sure that outdoor furniture is protected. The effects of environmental factors such as UV rays or moisture are absorbed by the covers, thus, preventing premature wear and tear or other damages which improves the durability of the furniture.
Savings
Outdoor seating is usually exposed and for such covers, repairs and replacement, or cleaning services are very expensive. If these services are offered appropriately if durable covers are bought, material degradation and aesthetics of the furniture are low. Cover shields are more economical to provide your outdoor furniture with appropriate protection.
Types of Outdoor Seating Covers You Can Trust
There are different types of outdoor seating covering materials that are good for different setting, pieces of furniture and personal taste. The following are some of the most recommended types:
Heavy-Duty Polyester Covers
Polyester is one of the frequently used fabrics because of its ability to withstand tearing. Even the most heavy-duty polyester covers are usually waterproof, or water resistant, and provide UV protection which is perfect when protecting outdoor furniture for both sunny day as well as rainy ones. They are affordable and lightweight, and durable thus making them popular for many homeowners.
Vinyl Covers
Vinyl covers will provide excellent waterproof as well as covering for constant wet areas. Thicker adults protect when covering and also shrink well as protective features against moisture. On the other hand, vinyl covers are simple to maintain as there are no rigorous cleaning uses required, rather it is a simple wipe of the gas with a wet cloth. These may be unproductive due to possible heat retention and so should not be ideal for covered furniture that is continuously exposed to excessive sunlight.
Canvas Covers
Canvas covers are popular for sun and mild rain applications because they are also breathable and strong. Canvas is almost always treated for both water and UV exposure, thus giving a moderate amount of protection. Besides that, it is thicker than polyester which helps in wading off winds. Also, it’s more earthy which complements outdoor designs well.
Solution-Dyed Acrylic Covers
Solution-dyed acrylic is a dependable and sought-after fabric mostly associated with high quality outdoor furniture cover. These covers offer excellent UV protection, and it ensures that the colors do not fade even when in the sun. Acrylic coverings are mold resistant, waterproof, and highly breathable yet protective. Although they tend to be pricier, they are quite effective and the investment pays off in the long run.
Custom-Fit Covers
Custom-fit covers are a perfect solution for users with oversized and irregularly shaped furniture. Some manufacturers have custom sizing options that ensure a tight fit. Custom covers can be made from any of the materials above, allowing you to select the one that will serve the desired purpose best. Custom covers, though, may be more expensive, but repair some of the best loss ratios for oddly shaped furniture because they offer the best fit.
Key Features to Look for in Outdoor Seating Covers
While getting an appropriate cover, it is not only about the material used in making the cover. Some other additional features should be considered for optimal protection and convenience as well:
UV Protection
UV radiation is detrimental to outdoor furniture, causing fading of colors and weakening the structural integrity of materials. Always search for covers that have special UV protective coatings, shielding the furniture from direct sunlight and overall wear.
Waterproof Vs. Water-Resistant
For outdoor seating surfaces that are most exposed to the rain, use waterproof covers since these will provide the best protection against moisture. Water-resistant covers are about right for patio furniture that is under light cover since they provide average water protection only which may work for moderate rains, but for heavy storms more than that will be needed.
Breathable Materials
Condensation which is liable to cause mold and mildew growth is easily prevented by using breathable fabrics like canvas or solution dyed acrylic to make covers. The use of breathable covers means that excess moisture is escaped from the surfaces of the furniture allowing them to remain freshly dry or damp.
Secure Fastening Options
When buying covers, fastenings like straps, buckles or elastic hems can be used as they prevent the covers being blown away due to strong winds, or not. They are also particularly useful when the weather changes abruptly and a cover is not in place.
Easy Maintenance
Incoming dirt, pollen and debris are easily prevented as the furniture is usually covered after being used and therefore the covers have to be easy to clean. It is common to just wipe vinyl covers, or rather wash polyester and canvas covers with soap and water. It is one thing to have covers but its another to have covers that are easy to look after and maintain.
Maintenance Tips for Outdoor Furniture Covers
Looking after your outdoor furniture covers is crucial for maintaining their flawless performance and durability. Here are some tips for maintaining your covers:
Clean On Regular Basis
Cleaning helps in controlling dust and dirt build up with time. Most of the covers just require a clean cloth and some water but if the dirt is more stubborn, that is when it is best to use soap and water, without any strong chemicals that can damage the fabric.
Take Off Covers When Unused
In case covers are not likely to be used for a long period of time such as during winters then it is wise to take them off and store them indoors. Keeping covers in a clean and dry place can also reduce chances of damage, making it ideal for the next season.
Always Inspect for Wear and Tear
Your covers should be surveyed regularly for any signs of damage such as rips in the material, worn out areas, or any areas that seem thin. If within the warranty period, it is advised to cover minor defects as soon as possible to avoid deterioration in quality and to maintain the efficacy of covers.
Do Not Use Sharp Tools Around The Covers
Tools such as gardening or decorative tools can damage the covers if they are too sharp, they should be avoided in case any furniture is covered. Sharp objects when used around covered sofas can lead to avoidable scrapes or small holes.
Conclusion
Outdoor furniture covers are an easy thing to do, but an important one, eliminating the need to worry about the weather, dust, and similar influences. Materials for covers include heavy polyester and solution-dyed acrylic which accounts for a wide scope of options and price variations. When choosing covers, pay attention to the fundamentals such as UV blocking agents, waterproof covering, and ways to secure them so that the outdoor chairs remain undamaged and in great appearance all year round. With a proper choice and care of a cover, utilizing the outdoor space is very pleasurable, since the furniture will every time look fresh and brand new.
