Tips & tricks
2 min reading time
Can steel garden furniture stay outside all year round?
A garden set that needs to be carried indoors after every rain shower? Nobody wants that. Luckily, many steel garden furniture pieces can stay outside all year round. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Even sturdy metal furniture has to withstand quite a lot during the autumn and winter months.
Yes, steel garden furniture can stay outside
Steel garden furniture is built to withstand the elements. Especially when the metal has a high-quality protective coating, chairs, tables and benches can handle rain, wind and sunlight very well.
That doesn’t mean you can simply leave them outside all year round without any care. Moisture, dirt and changing temperatures can affect the appearance and lifespan of your furniture over time.
With a little regular maintenance, steel garden furniture can stay looking great for many years.
What about rain and moisture?
Rain itself usually isn’t a problem. The main concern is when water is left standing on the furniture for long periods. This can happen, for example, when moisture collects in joints, underneath the legs or in areas where the protective coating has been damaged.
That’s why it’s a good idea to clean your garden furniture from time to time and let it dry thoroughly. While you’re at it, check for any scratches or small areas of damage to the metal. This allows you to deal with potential problems before they get worse.
What about frost?
Frost doesn’t necessarily mean you need to bring your steel garden furniture indoors. High-quality metal furniture can generally handle low temperatures without any problems.
However, it’s a good idea to pay extra attention to moisture during the winter months. If a piece of furniture is constantly exposed to moisture in a sheltered corner with little airflow, for example, the water will evaporate less easily.
A dry, well-ventilated spot under a covered area is therefore ideal. Don’t have that option? You can also cover your furniture with a breathable protective cover.
Tip: Avoid leaving chairs and tables under a fully sealed cover for long periods while they’re still damp. Trapped moisture can actually cause problems.
Rust: When does it occur?
Rust is one of the main things to watch out for with steel garden furniture. Fortunately, modern garden furniture often has a protective coating that helps keep moisture away from the metal.
However, if that coating gets damaged, it can leave the metal underneath vulnerable. Spot a scratch or other damage? It’s best to repair it as soon as possible to prevent moisture from reaching the metal.
Regular cleaning also helps keep dirt and moisture from building up on the surface.
How to keep your steel garden furniture looking its best
Want to leave your steel garden furniture outside all year round? These simple tips will help keep it looking its best:
- Clean it regularly with water and a mild cleaning product.
- Remove leaves and dirt, especially during autumn.
- Check the protective coating for scratches and other damage.
- Make sure water can drain away and doesn’t remain on the furniture for long periods.
- Use a protective cover if needed, preferably a breathable one.
- Move your furniture to a sheltered spot during severe storms, if possible.
- Give your garden furniture a thorough clean in spring so it’s fresh and ready for the new outdoor season.