After a long winter indoors, we can't wait to get outside to entertain friends, or relax with a cup of coffee and the Sunday paper. Is your patio ready? Here's a little help with how to get it in shape for the sunny seasons to come.
PATIO FURNITURE
Step 1: Remove the covers from any furniture on your patio. Bring stored pieces out to review.
Step 2: Note any pieces that need repair, and dispose of any that have reached the end of their useful life.
Step 3: Make a list of items that need to be replaced (e.g., chairs, cushions, planters, etc.)
Step 4: Clean the furniture you're keeping.
Metal
For metal pieces, remove any oxidation with a car-rubbing compound, then apply a clear car wax (not Turtle Wax-it's green).
Wrought Iron
First, remove any rust by lightly sanding and wiping thoroughly. Then, touch up with paint. It's best if you can get matching paint from the manufacturer. Once furniture is rust free, wash with a solution of mild dishwashing detergent and water, then hose down.
Wicker
Clean with a soft scrub brush and a mild oil-based soap.
Tip: Since inclement weather wears on wicker, consider replacing severely weathered pieces with resin All-Weather Wicker.
Wood
Use a soft scrub brush and a mild oil-based soap, and then rinse with the hose. If you have teak and want to maintain the reddish-brown color, treat with a water-based teak protector at least once a year.
Vinyl
Clean with a solution of mild dishwashing detergent and water, or a white vinegar and water mix (half cup of vinegar to one gallon of water), and then rinse.
Tip: Remove scuff marks with a soft damp cloth and a small amount of Soft Scrub®, and then hose down.
Plastic
Clean with a solution of mild dishwashing detergent and water, or a white vinegar and water mix (half cup of vinegar to one gallon of water), and then rinse.
Tip: Fix scuffs and stains with touch-up paint - no sanding or priming necessary.
Tip: Hose down several times a month to prevent dirt buildup. | 
