With a blanket of snow covering everything in sight, it’s time to winterize your backyard. While gazebos and patio furniture are designed for the outdoors, it is important to take proper care of them to prevent irreversible damage. 

Here are some tips to help you prepare your backyard for winter!

1) Clean Your Backyard

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Clean up your backyard if you haven’t! This will prevent any pests from growing there during the winter months. Remove infested plants, rake leaves and sweep up some of the plant debris in your backyard.

Do note that it is important not to over-clean, though! Leaves, stalks and other plant debris that fall to the ground will actually enrich the soil. Overly aggressive removal of fallen leaves might deprive your future plants and grass of nutrients.

2) Remove Snow (For Hard-Top Gazebos)

While hard top gazebos are sturdy, you should still make an effort to winterize them to prevent them from sustaining any damage during periods of heavy snowfall. Snow should be cleared off the roof regularly to protect the gazebo’s integrity. This will also prevent the structure from rotting or rusting. To remove excessive snow and debris, use a plastic snow rake.

3) Remove Canopy (For Soft-Top Gazebos)

Soft-top gazebos are not meant to withstand the rigors of winter. After dismantling your gazebo, be sure to give it a thorough wash and dry it completely before packing it up. This is especially important so that you can use it again when spring comes! 

4) Keep Or Cover Your Patio Furniture

Whether your patio furniture is made out of wood, metal or wicker, clean them first before you keep them or cover them up. Clean them with warm water and mild liquid detergent. Then, use a soft-bristled brush to remove any algae, mold or mildew. The best areas to store your outdoor furniture are under a shed, in a dry storage space or indoors. This is to ensure that they do not get damp, grow mold or discolor.

Apply a protective sealant to wood furniture after cleaning and drying to protect it from moisture and rust. Then, cover them with a breathable fabric that can withstand the brunt of winter. Suitable fabrics should promote airflow, allow moisture to quickly evaporate, and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

Check your outdoor furniture for any damage or mold periodically during the winter months. Make the effort to care for them now so that you can prolong their lifespan and enjoy them again in the spring!

For more product care tips, check out our Hard Top Gazebo Care, Soft Top Gazebo Care and Fire Pits and Fireplaces Care guides!