Those lazy days of summer will soon be coming to an end, and before you know it–winter has arrived.
Just as you cover your shrubs and other plants to protect them from the harsh Toronto winters, you may want to consider covering your patio furniture. But what should you use to protect your patio chairs, tables and BBQs from the snow and ice?
You may have heard that shrink wrap is a great way to protect your patio furniture. But what is shrink wrap, and how does it help?
Shrink-Wrap
Shrink-wrap is a plastic film used to wrap any object–big or small. When heated, shrink-wrap creates an airtight, watertight seal, perfect for protecting your patio furniture from humidity, water and even dust. Shrink wrap is made of thick, quality plastic designed to last longer and allow easy removal in the Spring. With durable construction, shrink-wrap is the perfect solution to protect your valuable outdoor furniture.
Shrink wrap will protect your patio furniture and create a waterproof, weatherproof and tamper-proof environment. It can also protect your furniture from the harmful UV rays of the sun. By shrink wrapping your outdoor furniture in Toronto, you help protect it against fading and other sun-related wear and tear.
Shrink wrap is also decreases waste in the environment. Since shrink wrap is recyclable, toss it in your blue bin to be recycled for future use when you’re finished with it.
Benefits of Shrink-wrapping patio furniture:
There are numerous benefits to using shrink-wrap on outdoor rugs, chairs, and sofas. When applied correctly, shrink wrapping can help restore beauty to even the most neglected surfaces. Here are some of the reasons you should start using shrink wrap on your outdoor rugs and furniture.
It allows you to close the item entirely without removing the protective film. When you combine these three techniques, your foliage will stay fresh for longer, preventing mould or mildew from growing on it.
Protection
Once the shrink wrap is heated and sealed, your items are no longer vulnerable to the damage caused by dust, dirt, or moisture—no mould or mildew.
In addition, some types of shrink wrap come with UV protection to keep your products safe from the sun’s harmful rays.
Shrink wrap may also have “Volatile Corrosion Inhibiting” (VCI) properties added. This type of shrink wrap will prevent corrosion on both iron and non-iron metals for up to two years
Durability
Shrink wrap is highly durable and will not ruin in cold weather. Once your furniture is secured and shrink-wrapped, the shrink wrap will not loosen or become brittle from extreme cold or heat. The wrap stays tightly sealed over your belongings and keeps them safe.
Shrink wrap is made from a very sturdy, durable plastic. It is difficult to tear or puncture.
Affordability
Compared to other packaging materials, such as tarps or shrink-wrap can be a very affordable choice. It also is designed to minimize space in storage and transport.
Convenience
Shrink-wrap used for any size project. Designed to minimize space, it keeps your items bundled together.
Need access to your outdoor furniture in the winter? Some shrink wrap systems have zippers that allow you to enter your table without cutting or removing your shrink wrap cover.
In the Spring, all you need to do is remove the wrap, and all your patio furniture will be clean and ready to use. There will be no need for harsh chemicals or power washing.
Shrink-wrap vs. Tarp
Shrink wrap does not move or chafe furniture. Unlike heavy tarps, shrink wrap fits snug to your furniture below. There are no gaps, and animals (mice, birds and bugs) looking for refuge from the cold in the winter will not be able to get in. This means less of a headache for you and no mess to clean up in the Spring.
Ropes used to tie down tarps have been known to cause indentations or abrasions to the furniture below.
Disadvantage of Tarp
- Leaves, snow, and animals will get under a tarp leaving a mess for you to clean in the Spring.
- Water can pool on your tarp and, if not removed, may cause damage to contents below
- Loose corners from tarps cause excess noise
Advantage of Shrink Wrap
- Patio furniture is bundled. Therefore, easier to move should you need to relocate
- Zippers can be installed for easy access
- Safely and effectively wrap items in any size and shape
- Easy removal. Simply remove the wrap, and all your furniture will be clean and ready to use
DIY vs Hiring a Professional
Shrink-wrap kits, designed for use with many different items. They are great for yard and garden equipment and patio and deck furniture. Suppose you choose to install shrink wrap over your patio furniture yourself. In that case, there are videos or in-person classes that you can access to help guide you.
Hiring a professional to shrink wrap your outdoor furniture can be an effective and efficient method of sealing your patio furniture.
Final Thoughts
Many industries use shrink wrap to protect their products.
Pharmaceuticals- Shrink-wrap helps seal caps and offers the ability to detect tampering.
The marine industry commonly uses shrink wrap to winterize boats and protect them from environmental elements.
The best cover for storing outdoor patio furniture in the winter is shrink wrap. It provides the best fit, moisture control, and protection against all the winter elements. Don’t want to spend time and energy shrink-wrapping your furniture? Contact your local shrink-wrap professional. They have all the supplies and equipment needed to shrink wrap your furniture to protect it all season long.
Keep your outdoor furniture in prime condition. By sealing your outdoor furniture in shrink-wrap, you will spend less time cleaning tables and chairs. With one less item to clean on your spring cleaning list, you can greet Spring with ease. You will also have more time to spend enjoying your patio furniture without the hassle.
If you need assistance with any shrink wrapping in the Greater Toronto Area, call us!
Dave Rea
