Wooden furniture and outdoor decor add warmth, character and natural beauty to any home or garden.
From a handcrafted wooden dining set on the patio, to a beautiful collection of planters, pergolas, benches, and garden sculptures, these features help to make outdoor spaces inviting. But if not protected properly, wooden products can be damaged by severe weather in no time.
Storms can cause damage to outdoor wood products due to heavy rain, high winds, hailstorms and extended periods of dampness.
Whether a wooden furniture or décor piece is an investment or a beautiful addition to the home, it can be preserved and kept looking beautiful all year long by understanding how storms impact it and taking the necessary precautions.
The Damage of Wooden Furniture Can Be Caused By Storms
Wood is a great material to use, but it can still be affected by the elements. Another major threat in storms is excess moisture.
Untreated or poorly-sealed wood allows for water to penetrate and results in swelling, warping, cracking, and rotting. Repeated exposure to moisture causes wood to become less durable and structurally weaker over the years.
Another problem is strong winds. Heavy winds can topple patio furniture, tables, screens and other wooden items. Gazebos, pergolas and other large structures could be damaged and require proper anchoring.
The wooden furniture and decorative items can be dented, damaged to the surface and chipped by hail. Furthermore, strong winds can blow debris that can scratch or break delicate wooden objects, resulting in expensive repairs or replacement.
The Typical Hazards to Outdoor Decor
Many different pieces of wood are used in outdoor decorations, including birdhouses, planters, fences, trellises and decoration signs. These are all often exposed to the weather and are particularly vulnerable to storm damage.
Excess moisture may cause mold and mildew to form, which can impact visual appeal and longevity. Wooden fence posts can lean or have weak spots after a major storm and decorative structures can be unstable if their bases are undermined during a wet period.
Another thing that homeowners should keep in mind with regard to storms is that they can affect other homes around them. Severe weather events can make the roof vulnerable and let water in, leading to problems in spaces where wood furniture is stored or displayed.When weather is intense, the roof may become vulnerable and let water in, creating issues with wooden furnishings stored or displayed in these spaces. When there is a large amount of property damage, professional services can be utilized to prevent additional water related problems that could lead to damage of outdoor and indoor wooden assets.
It is also important to take into account how storms might affect nearby structures for homeowners. Severe weather events can cause roof damage that will allow water to enter where wood furnishings are stored or displayed. For those cases where there is considerable damage to the property, professional storm damage roof repair Halifax services can assist in averting more water-related troubles that can pose a risk to the wooden outdoor and indoor property assets.
Be Proactive in Taking Actions to Prevent a Storm From Occurring
The best way to prevent storm damage to wooden furniture and furnishings is to prepare for it. By keeping track of weather news, homeowners can act in advance before harsh weather strikes.
A basic safeguard is to remove portable furniture from outdoors.
When a severe storm is forecast, keep chairs, tables, benches and decorative items covered and out of the way in a garage, shed or covered space.
If you're unable to move a larger object, it's important to make sure that it's properly secured.
Secure outdoor structures with anchors, straps or strong fasteners to prevent damage from the wind. Regular check on pergolas, gazebos and wooden garden arches to make sure that all connections are secure.
The use of sealants resistant to weather damage is another useful measure. Good wood sealants form a protective barrier from moisture and UV. Regular re-coating will help to ensure durability and prolong the lifespan of wooden furnishings.
The Need for Protective Covers.
Quality waterproof covers offer extra protection from rain, hail and debris. Covers should fit tightly to hold in place during storms.
Breathable covers can be a good option, as they help to keep the furniture dry but prevent direct rainwater from getting on it. Well-covered furniture has less weathering and is less expensive to maintain in the long run.
If you have a large backyard full of outdoor furniture, you can have a storage area for long-term protection during storm seasons. Just temporary storage can substantially diminish the potential for expensive damage.
Post Storm Inspection and Maintenance
Once the storm has passed, it will be important to assess wooden furniture and decoration. Early detection of problems can help keep small problems from becoming large problems.
First, look for standing water, loose parts, cracks or warping. Dry the wood well in a well-ventilated place, using clean towels to remove excess moisture. Do not use heat directly, fast-dry may lead to further cracking.
When the protective finish has been damaged, sanding and sealing any damaged areas can restore the resistance of the wood to weathering in the future.
Minor salvage efforts that are done early will avoid major restoration efforts in the future.
Also check other buildings in the area. Wooden furnishings can still be exposed to moisture after the storm from leaking roofs, damaged gutters or broken drainage systems.
Long-Term Protection Strategies
There is a need to maintain a storm resilient space outside the house. Wooden furniture can be maintained throughout the year with regular cleaning, sealing and inspections.
Using weatherproof wood grades like teak, cedar and redwood can also extend the life of the wood. The following benefits of these woods are natural: resistance to moisture and insect damage.
It is also crucial to strategically place them. Furniture placed under patios, pergolas or awnings are less exposed to rain and sunshine. Good water drainage around outdoor living areas further reduces water damage.
Conclusion
Wooden furniture and outdoor decoration add to the beauty and functionality of an outdoor living area, but they need to be protected from harsh weather elements. If preventive measures are not implemented, heavy rain, strong winds, hail and moisture exposure can all lead to deterioration.
Homeowners can minimize storm damage through the securing of furniture, furniture finishes, weatherproofing, and routine maintenance. These measures, along with timely property repairs and proactive storm preparation, can help maintain the beauty and durability of wooden investments for years to come.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aleksandra Djurdjevic
Senior Content Creator
Aleksandra Djurdjevic is a senior writer and editor, covering jewelry, accessories, and trends. She’s also works with services, home décor. She has previously worked as ESL teacher for English Tochka. Aleksandra graduated from the Comparative Literature department at the Faculty of Philosophy in Serbia. Aleksandra’s love for the environment, crafts and natural products over the years helps her continue to be a top expert at Wooden Earth.
