Protect Your Bistro Set from Hurricanes: A Comprehensive Guide

Nothing beats relaxing outdoors with friends and family over a meal at your bistro set. But hurricane season can put quite a damper on al fresco dining if you're not properly prepared. With more frequent and intense storms becoming the new normal, it's crucial to safeguard your patio furniture. In this guide, we'll go over expert tips for properly covering, securing and selecting bistro sets that can withstand raging hurricanes.

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By OviosLaylaDec 18, 2023

The Dangers of Hurricanes to Outdoor Furniture

When hurricanes strike, they bring ferocious winds and torrential rains that can destroy uncovered outdoor furniture.

Here are the threats of hurricanes:

Winds: Sustained winds over 110 mph and gusts up to 155 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. Strong enough to throw furniture or turn loose items into deadly projectiles.
Rainfall: Torrential downpours of 10-15 inches or more reported. Large amounts quickly soak into unprotected surfaces.

Here are some possibilities for material damage:

Wood/Wicker: Heavy rain causes warping as moisture saturates the materials. Long-term humidity leads to molds/rots without drying. Delicate wicker weaves can shred.
Loose Items: Umbrellas, cushions, or décor Fly unpredictably indoors or become dangerous in winds.
Multi-thousand Dollar Cost: Replacing or repairing damaged sets runs into the thousands, making prevention crucial.

Without shelter, your bistro faces an onslaught of wind and water that exceeds its build. Covering provides the protection needed from these threats.

Covering and Securing Your Bistro Set

To safeguard furniture, properly cover your set when storms loom.

Choosing a Cover

Look for covers made of tightly woven, weather-resistant material specifically for outdoor use.
Opt for heavy-duty polyester or other material that is waterproof, tear-resistant, and blocks UV rays.

Securing the Cover

Completely wrap the set and tie it down firmly with straps along all sides to prevent ballooning.
Remove small accessories that could blow away before covering.

For different surfaces, employ:

Deck supports or beams for straps on wood
Concrete anchors or screws for cement
Stakes are driven into the grass

Mark hurricane season dates to stay prepared. Don't wait until landfall to cover - plan ahead now. With the right cover and attachment, your furniture braces any gale with ease.

Outdoor Furniture Anchoring Methods

Whether you choose temporary straps, more permanent screws, or ground stakes, properly anchoring your bistro set gives that extra layer of security against hurricane winds. Ensuring furniture stays put no matter the conditions allows full relaxation during outdoor meals, even stormy ones.

Temporary Anchors

Straps:

Durable nylon or polyester straps around 1-2 inches wide securely wrap around legs and base.
Buckles allow tightening of the strap to your desired tautness.
Inspect buckles to ensure they are sturdy and coated to prevent rust.
Test the strength of different strap types by pulling with moderate force.

Semi-Permanent Options

Screws:

Use corrosion-resistant screws no shorter than 2 inches with thick shanks to grip wood firmly.
Drill pilot holes to prevent wood splitting during screwing in. Measure hole depth the same as screw length.
Place screw points 6-12 inches apart throughout frames for reinforcement.
Check for loosening over time and retighten screws after storms.

Ground Stakes:

Sturdy steel stakes around 1/4-1/2 inch thickness and 6-12 inches long.
Pre-drill holes slightly smaller than stake width through furniture joints.
Hammer stakes fully into soil or patio cracks beneath furniture legs.
Inspect annually for any rust or movement out of the ground.

Permanent Solutions

Concrete Anchors:

Expansion anchors are specially coated for outdoor use in concrete/masonry.
Drill holes match anchor size recommendations based on furniture weight.
Hammer or screw anchors fully into holes until flush.
Anchors spread within the material for ultimate holding power.

With the right anchors employed, your patio furniture endures many hurricane seasons to come.

Weather-Resistant Furniture Materials

When investing in bistro furniture meant to withstand hurricane conditions season after season, material choice deserves careful consideration. Structural elements like frames, legs, slats, and weaves impact longevity. Here are durable options:

Hardwoods:

Acacia is termite-resistant and withstands warping. Eucalyptus contains natural oils, making it weather-proof.
Hardwood finishes like stains or varnishes protect while enhancing visual appeal.
Routinely clean hardwood with soap and water, allowing drying fully between uses.

Metals:

Powder-coated iron resists rusting for decades with minimal upkeep.
Marine-grade aluminum alloys are very strong yet lightweight for mobility.
Wash metals yearly with soap and rinse well to maintain luster.

Wicker/Rattan:

All-weather wicker features tightly woven UV-inhibiting fibers as strong as plastic strands.
Sealing yearly with a weatherproofer protects fibers from deterioration.

Plastics:

Recyclable polyethylene resin is very strong but light for easy relocation.
Plastics don't crack or chip like other materials, even in freezing temps.
Simply spray off dirt whenever plastic furniture looks dull.

Selecting furnishings manufactured with protection top-of-mind guarantees lasting value as ease of care grants continued use in any weather.

Conclusion

With the proper covers, securement, and materials, you don't have to worry about your bistro set falling victim to a hurricane. Taking preventative measures addresses the main threats of wind, water, debris, and sun damage. A well-protected outdoor furniture investment will provide you with hassle-free enjoyment of summertime meals for many seasons to come. Just be proactive in nailing down your protection strategy before storm season strikes. With a little preparation now, you'll safeguard both your bistro set and peace of mind. Check back for more tips on keeping your home safe from strong storms.