British Summer Garden Weatherproof Tips
The British summer time can be unpredictable at best, glorious sunshine one minute and then pouring rain the next. Here at Laura James, we can’t predict the weather, but we can offer some tips on how to weatherproof your outside space this summer.
Invest in Weatherproof Furniture
Firstly, although garden furniture is of course designed for use outdoors, investing in pieces with durability and weatherproof qualities will stand the test of time. All Laura James rattan garden furniture is made with durable synthetic PE rattan. Designed to offer the same natural look as genuine wicker our PE rattan range is both water resistant and UV resistant. You can read more about the benefits of rattan garden furniture here.
Our PE rattan outdoor furniture includes pieces like the Weston rattan corner sofa set with garden coffee table and our cube dining sets like this 10 seater set. The beauty of the cube design is that the rattan garden chairs and cushions can be neatly tucked away in a matter of minutes.
Consider purchasing some plastic garden chairs like our contemporary Wren styles. Plastic chairs don’t just have to be practical for the wet weather; they can be stylish too. Our Wren chairs come in a range of vibrant colours including pink, green, orange and blue. Create a fun look by mixing and matching the colours with your dining table or opt for our Wilder and Wren dining set for a stylish look.
This season we have launched a collection of terrazzo and concrete garden accessories, all designed with the versatility to be used indoors or outdoors. If being used outside as a garden side table, we recommend treating annually with a wax based after care product, this helps to fill tiny pores in the concrete allowing water to run away easily.
Protect Your Furniture
Even if you have waterproof garden furniture it is still worthwhile having furniture covers to protect it during those winter months. Our wooden garden furniture is made with natural acacia wood, known for its strength and durability, however we still recommend using a protective cover during wintertime. Some of our pieces like the Ezra wooden dining set with rope Hali chairs come with a free furniture cover.
Also, consider the best place to position your garden furniture, so that you are not exposed to the elements which can be tricky in a garden. Fences, hedges and most British garden trees will offer shelter from sun and blustery wind if you have them in the garden or nearby.
Take Cover
Remember a large garden parasol will not only offer shade when it’s sunny, but it will also shelter you from rain showers. We also offer waterproof parasol covers for square and round parasols, rectangular parasols as well as lean over parasols to help keep your parasol protected in winter.
If you are planning a party or get together and will be outside come rain or shine, then consider a gazebo or pergola for your garden if you have the space. It is the perfect way to cover a large area in the garden. That way most of your guests should be able to sit underneath and stay dry during a summer shower.
Keep Warm
It’s not just the rain we need to be prepared for, but British summer time evenings can drop in temperature even if it’s been a scorcher during the day. If you are entertaining outdoors after sunset, then consider having a few throw blankets handy for guests for wrap up in. An outdoor heater or firepit will create a cosy feel and can be used all year round.
All Important Outdoor Storage
Having storage space where you can quickly stash cushions and throws if there’s a sudden down pour is a practical solution, for those days when the weather app just gets it wrong! A garden storage box that doubles up as bench seating is ideal for any outdoor space. Simply pop garden cushions, rugs or throws inside when it’s wet. Then they are easily accessible when dry.
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