Get your patio furniture ready for fall

Fall does not always mean putting every outdoor piece away immediately. It is a good time, though, to remove moisture and debris before cool, wet conditions leave stains or encourage mildew.

Clean gently and let everything dry

Brush away leaves and loose dirt, then use the care instructions for your furniture material. Avoid storing cushions, covers, or rugs while damp. Trapped moisture can create odors, mildew, or corrosion even when furniture is covered.

Check the parts that carry weight

Look at chair feet, table legs, fasteners, umbrellas, and any moving joints. A loose fastener may be a simple adjustment; a cracked structural part is a reason to stop using the piece until it can be repaired or replaced. Keep outdoor fabrics and cushions away from open flames or heat sources while storing them.

Cover or store with airflow in mind

Use a cover sized for the furniture, but avoid sealing moisture underneath it. If possible, move cushions and smaller pieces into a dry, ventilated storage area. Keep covers secured so they do not become windblown litter or damage nearby plants.

While you are outside, take a look at nearby drainage and walkways. Standing water or unstable steps are worth addressing before darker, wetter days make them harder to notice.

Sources

• Consumer Product Safety Commission: Outdoor furniture safety

Be ready for the conversation

3 questions to ask your qualified professional

1. 1What condition did you observe, and what evidence supports that conclusion?
2. 2What options fit this home, and what tradeoffs should I understand?
3. 3What exactly is included and excluded from the written scope?