WITH summer fast approaching and spring already underway, there’s never been a better time to relax in the garden.
Many homeowners will have already started cleaning up their outdoor spaces, especially after the scorching weather last month.
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But if you want to make sure you don’t accidentally ruin your garden furniture, then you might want to take note.
An expert has revealed that there is a common spring cleaning mistake you could be making that could be costly to repair.
One of the first things we do to get our gardens summer-ready is give everything a clean, and this normally involves rearranging the furniture.
But if this isn’t handled properly, then it can cause extensive damage which in turn can cost hundreds of pounds to fix.
Matthew Lock, director of luxury garden furniture specialists
Luxus Europe, warned that most homeowners underestimate how heavy garden furniture can be.
He said: “May is a key month for many of us to start preparing our gardens, balconies and outdoor spaces to become our summer havens
“But care must be taken when rearranging garden furniture to ensure you don’t inadvertently cause damage that could be costly to repair.
“Dragging and pushing heavy furniture along to relocate it in a different part can crack or damage it.
“Especially in its joints, which may cost hundreds of pounds to fix.
“Not only that, but it can increase the risk of a personal injury as it can place greater strain on your muscles, joints and spine.
“Some people underestimate just how heavy garden furniture can be, so trying to move it themselves can be unwise.
“Instead, you may want to ask a friend or a professional to help you lift and carry furniture, as long as it is safe to do so.”
Garden furniture such as benches, chairs and tables is often found in gardens across Scotland.
They can be used to great effect when trying to create your dream garden, but it’s important to use them correctly or you can risk damage.
For example, Matthew explains that leaving wooden garden furniture on the lawn can give it prolonged exposure to damp and moisture, which may lead to decay.
On top of that, it can hamper grass growth and lead to bald spots on your lawn.
7 hacks to get your garden summer-ready without breaking the bank
EXPERTS have revealed how you can give the garden a makeover without breaking the bank.
Paint and Interiors Expert Lucy Steele, from Valspar Paint, has shared her top seven tips on how to give your furniture a fresh look while keeping costs low.
- Clean it first – “Mix lemon juice and a pinch of salt, and use a sponge to gently remove mould and stains.”
- Fresh coat of paint – “A fresh coat of paint can work wonders, transforming tired and weathered furniture into vibrant focal points”
- Fabric Facelift – “Give any outdoor cushions a makeover by reupholstering them with old curtains, tablecloths, or even shower curtains”.
- A touch of greenery – “Convert an old ladder into a vertical garden by attaching planter boxes to each rung or simply placing potted plants on each step.”
- DIY Coffee Table – “If you’re on a budget, buying new garden furniture can sometimes feel so far out of reach. All you need is two wood pallets, wood glue, caster wheels, and a few coats of paint.
- Dress up old furniture – “There is something quirky and magical-looking about seeing ornate interior furniture out of context in an outdoor environment.”
- Magic Mirrors – “Using mirrors strategically in your garden can add visual interest, create the illusion of more space, and enhance the overall ambiance.”
Sharing his top tips on how to look after your garden furniture, he added: “With the correct care and attention, good quality wooden garden furniture can last decades.
“I recommend cleaning with gentle dish soap and warm water three or four times a year, or more if you notice your items accumulating dirt and grime easily.
“Carry out a full inspection of each item to assess if any repairs need to be made, while a fresh coat of paint or a round of sanding may be in order.
“It can also be useful to invest in garden furniture covers to protect items from the unpredictable UK weather.
“Steer clear of any abrasive chemicals while cleaning, while applying a protective varnish or sealant once a year can go a long way to protecting furniture’s longevity.”
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