Patio Furniture Covers

Patio furniture can be high priced, so it is important to protect the furniture from rain, snow and excessive sunlight. What types of furniture need protecting? Virtually any patio item can be damaged if not properly protected. Therefore, there is a long list of patio furniture covers available for different items. 

Patio chairs, tables, grills, lounges, sofas and ottomans should be protected by patio furniture covers. Even more expensive furniture pieces to remember are umbrellas, fire pits and patio heaters, which can be very pricey to replace. Covering these items on a regular basis will keep them in the best condition possible.

Covers for outdoor items are heavyweight material and completely cover the piece of furniture or appliance. They are usually made of unique, high quality material that could include vinyl, rhinoweave fabric, rain tight polyester, and other types of fabric. Good quality patio furniture covers can last through years of rain, snow and sunshine and keep your furniture looking as good as new.

In shopping for one remember to look for a product that is preferably water-resistant and breathable. Water-resistance obviously protects against rain damage and prevents watermarks. Breathable means that moisture underneath the cover won’t be trapped and will be able to evaporate through the fabric. If patio furniture covers are not breathable mold and mildew could accumulate.

It’s important that there are secure fasteners attached to the cover so it can be attached to the item. Otherwise, they could topple over or get blown away by strong winds. Some patio furniture covers attach by Velcro, others with elastic bands, strings, ties or zippers. Look for coverings that fasten to furniture a few different ways, for added protection.

Colors vary from blue to black to white, though many products are gray colored so that they can better reflect the sun’s rays. Look for patio furniture covers that are UV ray treated to withstand the scorching summers. If you purchase one in a dark shade be wary when it’s been sitting in the mid-day sun for some time as the surface can become very hot to the touch.

Cost of covers varies with the size, brand name and quality of each product. An average size product will run from $20.00-$50.00, though an extra large covering (like for a bar or large round table) can run over $100.00. Many products do carry a warranty, some lasting for three years.

Purchasing one can be done in a large furniture store and there is an advantage to seeing a covering up close before buying it. However, many people prefer to purchase a cover online. The prices are usually discounted from retail stores and many online stores offer free shipping and handling. Patio furniture covers buy you protection against seasonal damage as well as peace of mind.