Urban outdoor living spaces often feature beautiful decks that can easily get scratched by furniture. Here are seven practical solutions to prevent damage while maintaining your outdoor aesthetic:
1. Use furniture pads or caps on chair and table legs. Felt, rubber, or plastic pads create a protective barrier between metal or wooden furniture and your deck surface. Replace them periodically as they wear down.
2. Place outdoor rugs or mats beneath furniture groupings. This distributes weight evenly and prevents scraping movements from damaging the deck finish. Choose weather-resistant materials that won't trap moisture.
3. Install glides on furniture feet specifically designed for deck protection. These are available in various sizes and materials to match different furniture types.
4. Regularly clean both your deck and furniture bottoms. Accumulated grit and debris act as abrasives that accelerate scratching when furniture is moved.
5. Lift instead of dragging furniture when rearranging. This simple habit prevents most accidental scratches caused by sliding heavy items across the deck surface.
6. Consider furniture with wide, flat legs that distribute weight more evenly than narrow legs that concentrate pressure on small points.
7. Apply a fresh protective sealant to your deck annually. A properly sealed deck surface is more resistant to scratches and damage from outdoor elements.
For metal furniture, check for rough edges or welding points that might need filing down. For wooden furniture, ensure no protruding nails or screws might gouge the deck. Rotate furniture occasionally to prevent permanent indentations in one area.
These preventive measures will help maintain your deck's appearance while allowing you to enjoy your outdoor furniture without worry. Regular inspection and maintenance are key to long-term deck preservation.