Cover Outdoor Furniture with Tarp: Ultimate Protection & Care Tips

Protecting your outdoor furniture from the elements is crucial to extend its lifespan and maintain its appearance. One of the simplest and most effective ways to do this is by covering your furniture with a tarp. But how do you ensure you're covering your outdoor furniture correctly? Let's delve into a step-by-step guide on how to cover outdoor furniture with a tarp, along with some expert tips.

The first step is to choose the right tarp. A heavy-duty, waterproof tarp is ideal for protecting your furniture from rain, snow, and UV rays. Once you've got your tarp, it's time to start the covering process.

Preparing Your Outdoor Furniture

Before you begin, ensure your furniture is clean and dry. Dirt and moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth over time, which can damage your furniture and make it harder to keep clean.

If your furniture is made of wood, apply a coat of sealant or varnish before covering it. This provides an extra layer of protection against moisture and helps maintain the wood's natural beauty.

Removing Loose Items

Remove any cushions, pillows, or other loose items from your furniture. These should be stored indoors or in a waterproof container to prevent them from getting wet or dirty.

Check for any debris such as leaves, dust, or insects that might have accumulated on your furniture. Use a broom or vacuum to clean these away.

Gathering Your Covering Materials

In addition to your tarp, you'll need bungee cords, ropes, or straps to secure the tarp to your furniture. You might also want to have some stakes or weights on hand to hold the tarp in place on windy days.

If your furniture has any delicate or sharp edges, you might want to invest in some tarp tie-down protectors. These are designed to prevent the tarp from getting snagged or torn by sharp edges.

Covering Your Outdoor Furniture

Once your furniture is prepared and you have all your materials ready, it's time to start covering.

Start by laying the tarp out flat on the ground. Place your furniture on top of the tarp, centering it as best as you can.

Securing the Tarp

Use bungee cords, ropes, or straps to secure the tarp to your furniture. Make sure they're tight enough that the tarp can't blow away in the wind, but not so tight that they damage your furniture.

If your furniture is big and heavy, you might need to use multiple cords or straps. Make sure they're evenly distributed and taut.

Securing the Edges

Once the tarp is secured to the top of your furniture, secure the edges to the ground. This can be done by tucking the edges underneath the furniture, staking them down, or weighing them down with heavy objects.

Make sure all edges are secure. Wind can get underneath a tarp and lift it, defeating the purpose of covering your furniture.

Additional Protection

For added protection, you can use a waterproof cover designed specifically for your furniture. These are often made of heavier-duty materials and have built-in straps to secure them in place.

You can also use a furniture cover designed to fit your specific piece of furniture. These are often more form-fitting and provide better wind and water resistance.

Maintaining Your Outdoor Furniture Cover

Once your furniture is covered, regular maintenance will help ensure that it stays protected. Here are some tips:

Check your cover regularly to make sure it's still secure and hasn't shifted or become damaged. If it has, make any necessary repairs or adjustments.

Cleaning Your Tarp

A dirty tarp can't do its job properly. Regular cleaning will help maintain its waterproofing and prevent mold and mildew growth.

Use a mild detergent and a soft brush to scrub dirt off the tarp. Rinse with clean water and let it dry completely before storing it away.

Storing Your Tarp

When not in use, store your tarp in a dry, cool place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight, as this can degrade the material over time. If possible, keep it off the ground to prevent it from getting damp or attracting pests.

Make sure your tarp is completely dry before storing it. Moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can compromise the tarp's integrity.

In the off-season, consider taking your tarp off completely and storing your furniture in a garage or shed. This provides the best possible protection against the winter elements. But if that's not an option, a well-secured tarp is the next best thing. With proper maintenance and care, your outdoor furniture will be ready to welcome you back when the weather warms up again.