Outdoor furniture allows us to enjoy our patios and yards even more. However, leaving furniture uncovered can quickly lead to damage from environmental factors like weather, dust, and sunlight. Protecting outdoor furniture with Tarpaulin Sheets. Its lifespan and maintain its quality.
When Should You Use a Tarpaulin on Furniture?
There are several scenarios when using a Tarpaulin is recommended:
During rainy or snowy weather
Furniture should always be covered if precipitation is in the forecast to prevent surfaces from absorbing water. Getting wet can cause wood to swell and metals to rust. It also encourages mold and mildew growth on other materials like fabric.
In areas with strong sun exposure
The UV rays from direct sunlight are very damaging over time. A tarp will shield wood pieces from fading, drying out, and developing small cracks. It also blocks UV that can cause fabric colors to dull.
Before and after the seasonal use of furniture
Off-season is a good time to tarp outdoor furnishings to protect from debris, pollen, and dust collection that can scratch surfaces. It’s also a smart idea to cover between storms.
When moving or storing furniture
Whether transferring pieces a short distance or through the winter, tarps protect against bumps and scratches that happen during relocation. Indoor storage with a tarp also prevents dust accumulation.
For furnishings left outside year-round
Patio furniture intended to be out all the time, like a wooden bar set, benefits from regular tarp coverings to shield against constant weather beating.
Choosing the Right Tarpaulin Material
There are a few popular tarpaulin materials to choose from. Knowing the pros and cons of each type helps determine which best suits your needs:
Plastic tarps are very affordable and lightweight options. However, prolonged sun exposure will cause plastic to become brittle and tear more easily over time. They work well for occasional or season use.
Vinyl tarps are thicker polymers that hold up better against weathering. More puncture resistant than plastic, vinyl blocks UV rays efficiently to prevent fading of covered items. They are also waterproof and last for multiple seasons.
Fabric tarps like canvas are soft and flexible, making them easier to drape over irregularly shaped furniture. Their natural appearance also looks less obtrusive than plastic alternatives. However, they are less water resistant and more prone to mold in damp conditions compared to other options.
Easy Tarpaulin Installation Methods
Once the right tarpaulin is obtained, quick and simple installation methods ensure coverage without much effort:
Bungee cords
Works well for loosely draping tarps on planar surfaces like tables. Loop cords every 6-12 inches around the tarp perimeter and furniture edge.
Rope
For heavier tarps, rope offers more secure fastening than bungee cords. Tie knots every foot along the outer tarp edge and anchoring points on the furniture.
Grommets and ropes
Some tarps include reinforced eyelets that make them easy to tie down tightly with knots. Space ropes every 1-2 feet for tension.
Crocheted canopy
Get creative by crocheting a soft cover that can be draped artistically and breathable over a daybed or chaise set.
Wood screws/brackets
For long-term covered furniture stationed outdoors 24/7, installing screws through tarp eyelets into the wood frame creates a stout anchored shelter.
Patio/furniture cover
Larger all-in-one fitted covers slip over an entire set with attached straps, grommets and tightening rods.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I put up/take down tarps?
For casual use, tarps only need installing for anticipated precipitation or high sun days. For full-time covered furniture, leaving the tarp up year-round is best.
What’s the average lifespan of a tarp?
With proper care as outlined above, tarps typically last 5-10 seasons or years depending on material, usage frequency, and repair/maintenance.
Can tarps be used year-round or just seasonally?
While tarps can technically be left up all year, most recommend storage indoors in winter to prevent damage from freezing and excessive UV degradation when not in active use.
Are furniture covers or individual tarps better?
Covers offer a more tailored integrated fit, while multiple tarps allow flexible coverage of separate/modular pieces. Consider your type of furniture set.
How do I measure and cut tarps for custom sizes?
Use a flexible tape measure and add 4-6 inches of overhang on all sides when cutting tarps with heavy scissors or a box cutter on a clean, flat surface.
Conclusion
tarpaulins are an affordable and effective option for homeowners looking to extend the life of their valuable outdoor furniture collections. Whether used occasionally during storms or left up full time on high-traffic patio sets, tarps block sun, water, debris and other environmental damage that can prematurely degrade wood, metal and fabrics. With proper sizing selections for different furniture pieces like tables, loungers, sectionals and more, quick installation methods get the job done hassle-free.
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