Commercial patio furniture is an essential investment for any business that wants to create a welcoming and inviting outdoor space for its customers. However, to keep your furniture looking its best and lasting for years to come, it’s important to follow a regular maintenance and care routine. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you do just that:
The first step in caring for commercial patio furniture is to understand the materials it’s made of and the appropriate cleaning methods.
Metal: Metal furniture is durable and easy to clean. Use a mild detergent and water solution to wipe down the furniture, and rinse thoroughly. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Wood: Wood furniture requires more care than metal. Use a wood cleaner specifically designed for outdoor furniture, and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once cleaned, apply a protective sealant to protect the wood from moisture and fading.
Plastic: Plastic furniture is generally low-maintenance. Use a mild detergent and water solution to wipe it down, and rinse thoroughly. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Fabric: Fabric cushions can be cleaned using a mild detergent and water solution. For deeper cleaning, remove the cushions and soak them in a bathtub filled with the solution. Rinse thoroughly and allow them to air dry completely before putting them back on the furniture.
In addition to cleaning, there are a few other regular maintenance tasks you should perform to keep your commercial patio furniture in good condition:
Inspect and Tighten: Regularly inspect your furniture for loose bolts or screws and tighten them as needed. This will prevent the furniture from wobbling or becoming unstable.
Cover When Not in Use: When your patio furniture is not in use, cover it with a waterproof cover to protect it from the elements. This will help prevent fading, mildew, and rust.
Store Cushions Indoors: Store fabric cushions indoors during the off-season or when not in use to prevent damage from rain, snow, or extreme temperatures.
Depending on your climate, you may need to take additional care of your commercial patio furniture during certain seasons:
Spring: After the winter months, clean your furniture thoroughly and inspect it for any damage. Apply a protective sealant to wood furniture to prepare it for the sun and rain.
Summer: Keep your furniture clean and free of dirt and debris. Apply a UV protectant spray to prevent fading.
Fall: Before the cold weather sets in, clean your furniture thoroughly and cover it with a waterproof cover. Store fabric cushions indoors.
Winter: In areas with heavy snowfall or freezing temperatures, store your furniture indoors if possible. If this is not possible, cover it with a heavy-duty tarp and weigh it down to prevent it from blowing away.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you notice any issues with your commercial patio furniture, here are a few common problems and how to fix them:
Rust: If you notice rust on metal furniture, you can remove it using a rust remover. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Fading: Fading is a common problem for wood and plastic furniture. To prevent fading, apply a UV protectant spray regularly.
Mildew: Mildew can occur on fabric cushions in humid environments. To remove mildew, brush it off with a soft brush and then clean the cushions with a bleach solution.
Warping: Warping can occur on wood furniture if it’s exposed to excessive moisture. To prevent warping, keep your furniture covered when not in use and apply a protective sealant regularly.