Prepare your patio this winter by following the tips below:
Image Source: Flickr
Assess, repair, replace and store outdoor furniture.
– Check for any repairs you can take care of over the winter. If you need a winter project, you may want to re-stain or repaint at your leisure. I like to give my pieces a fresh coat during that first fluky warm weekend pre-spring. This way, my wonky stacking for storage doesn’t ruin my work.
– Determine whether any pieces are beyond repair; you may just get lucky and find a replacement at a deep discount this time of year.
– Clean and store furniture you’re saving for next year. Source: Houzz
Grills
– If you live in a climate where the winters are mild, you can fire up your outdoor grill or smoker year round. Otherwise, clean and cover your outdoor cooking equipment at the end of the season to help prevent rust.
– If you have a gas grill, turn off the propane gas tank and disconnect the hose. If your grill connects to a gas line, turn off the valve to the grill and the one to your home. Then clean the grill, inside and out, with a stiff wire brush and a degreaser, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t forget to clean the drip pan under the grill box, too; you may need to soak it overnight in hot water and a grease-cutting dish detergent.
– Use a weather resistant cover to protect your grill from the elements. Universal covers fit a range of sizes and shapes, if you can’t find one designed for your model. A good cover should resist cracking and fading and drop down far enough to cover the legs of the grill. Choose a cover that fits snugly, or one with adjustable closures, so it won’t blow off. Source: Homedepot
Apply a Protective Finish
After cleaning, it’s important to apply a water-repellent finish to protect your deck against the damaging effects of winter. Moisture such as ice, snow, sleet and rain can penetrate an unprotected surface, which can cause splitting, cracking and warping. Fortunately, there’s a wide variety of premium exterior wood finishes that offer protection against the elements while giving you the opportunity to achieve any desired look. Source: HGTV
For more advice on how to winter-proof your home, contact us!
Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains Ltd.
168 W 71st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5X 4S7
(604) 360-2114
