Adding a patio to your home is one of the best ways to expand your living space without breaking the bank. Putting an addition on your home could cost tens of thousands of dollars, but a high quality patio will cost only a fraction of that price. Although you are spending less, you are still making an investment, one that will add equity to your home.

When creating an outdoor living space, you will want to outfit your patio with a hot tub, a high end grill or just a quality furniture set to complete the space. It is important you take steps to protect your purchase so you can maximize its use. With the right care, a quality patio furniture set can last for many years, but if you neglect it those pieces could start to show their age after just a year or two.

First, make sure to regularly clean your furniture during the summer months. Wipe up spills immediately to avoid staining. Lay a towel down after getting out of the pool to avoid transferring left over tanning oil or sunblock. Keep your furniture out of the sun for prolonged periods of time. Also, apply a sealant to the wood to protect the stain color from sun damage.

One of the best things you can do to prepare your patio furniture for the long winter season is to give it a deep cleaning prior to storing it. Start by wiping the wood down with a quality furniture polish to remove dust and built-up dirt. Polish the wood carefully until all dirt has been removed, then apply a sealant to protect the wood from moisture. Even if you store your patio furniture indoors, moisture can still build up. Applying a protective coating can prevent serious wood damage later.

After the patio furniture has been thoroughly cleaned, you will need to store it properly. If you have a shed on your property, now is the time to clear out space and store your furniture. If you do not have a storage shed, you might consider buying one to store the furniture. Patio furniture will last much longer if it is stored out of the elements. If you do not have a way to store your patio furniture indoors, invest in a quality patio cover to provide protection from ice and snow. Patio covers should be tight fitting, durable, water resistant, and made from high quality acrylic, and nylon fibers. Be sure to remove any upholstered cushions and store them indoors, since excess moisture could damage them, making them unusable.

Taking time to protect your patio furniture from the seasonal elements and harsh winter weather will allow you to enjoy it once the weather permits. With the right care, your patio furniture will last for many years.