Every summer, it’s the same story: many people are just going to get their summer gear just to find out that it’s broken, damaged or unusable. Partially because it hadn’t been stored properly. Patio umbrellas are no exception. It’s essential to take proper care of your outdoor umbrella to protect it from potential bad weather conditions. Storing it correctly during the winter months can help prolong its lifespan and ensure that it’s ready for use and in pristine condition when the warmer weather returns. In this article, we will provide you with some helpful tips on how to store your patio umbrella during winter.
Clean and Dry Your Patio Umbrella
Before storing your patio umbrella for the winter, it’s important to clean it thoroughly. Use a mild detergent and water solution, or any other solution recommended by the manufacturer to clean the umbrella canopy, frame, and pole. Rinse it thoroughly and allow it to dry completely to prevent mould, mildew, and rust formation during storage.
Disassemble if Possible
If your umbrella is designed to be disassembled, it’s recommended to take it apart for winter storage. It’s even more convenient to store as it should take less space. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for disassembly, and keep all the components organized and together in a safe place.
Cover or Wrap Your Umbrella
If you’re unable to disassemble your patio sunshade, or if you prefer to keep it whole, consider covering it with a suitable, durable and weather-resistant cover. It’s best to look for a cover that fits tightly over your umbrella. They would usually have a string or fasteners to keep it securely in place and to cover it tightly. Alternatively, you can wrap it with a tarp or heavy-duty plastic wrap to protect it and seal all with strong tape.
Store in a Dry and Sheltered Area
It’s important to store your parasol in a dry and sheltered area during winter when you can. Avoid leaving it exposed to the bad meteorological conditions as this can cause damage to the different components. Consider storing it in a garage, shed, or basement, or any other place that provides protection from the weather.
Avoid Storing Near Heat Sources or Pests
When storing your patio umbrella make sure to keep it away from heat sources, such as heaters, furnaces, or fireplaces. High temperatures can cause damage to the fabric and frame. Additionally, avoid storing your umbrella in an area where it’s susceptible to pests, such as rodents or insects.
Check and Maintain
Even if it’s not in use, it’s good to periodically check on your stored patio umbrella to ensure that it’s still in good condition. Look for any signs of moisture, mould, or mildew, and clean and dry it promptly if you can. If you notice any damage, repair it before using the umbrella again when needed
Consider Using a Storage Bag
Another option for storing your dear and useful sunshade is to use a storage bag specifically designed for patio umbrellas. These bags usually have a zipper or drawstring closure and provide additional protection against moisture, dust, and debris. Be sure to choose a bag that is compatible with the size of the one that you own. Storage bags and covers are usually recommended for any outdoor piece of furniture during colder times
Conclusion
To summarise, properly storing your patio umbrella for winter is essential to protect it from different weather, hazard or animal damage. This will allow you to benefit and enjoy your sunshade longer. By following the tips mentioned above, you can increase your chances of having a ready to use umbrella when the season is on. Taking the time to properly store your patio umbrella during winter will help you enjoy its shade and comfort for years to come.
Do you want to know more…? Take a look
Patio umbrellas come in various styles and designs, making them meet different preferences and functional needs.
- Market parasol/umbrella: very popular; which features a classic round or rectangular canopy and a straight pole
- Cantilever or offset umbrella: it has a side-mounted pole that allows for more flexible positioning and shading options
- Beach umbrella/parasol: classic one that you see on the beach. Easy to carry and move around but will require a base if you have pavers or don’t want to ruin your turf
- Tilt umbrella: it provides adjustable tilting angles to provide you with sheltering as the sun moves around
- Patio umbrella with lights: yes, they do exist with integrated lighting and it creates an amazing atmosphere during those beautiful summer nights