Warning over ‘common mistake’ with outdoor furniture that could damage your lawn

As warmer weather approaches, homeowners are taking their garden furniture out of storage to prepare their gardens for summer

A garden expert is urging Brits to not make this ‘common mistake’ with their outdoor furniture as it could cause damage to your lawn. As warmer weather approaches, homeowners are taking their garden furniture out of storage to prepare their gardens for summer.

But green-thumbed individuals are being urged not to commit a common mistake with their tables and chairs that can lead to mould, rust or rotting and could damage your grass. Matthew Lock, a garden furniture specialist at Luxus Home and Garden, revealed that placing wooden furniture on the lawn can cause damage to the item and your grass.

This is because prolonged exposure to moisture from the grass can damage the wooden legs or table and chairs which can lead to damp stains, mould or rot. If you place metal outdoor furniture on grass, Matthew also warns it could cause these items to rust too.

Mathew also warns that putting your table on grass in the summertime can damage your lawn as the heavy item can prevent sunlight and air reaching it. This may eventually lead to your grass dying, leaving you with ‘dead patches’ all over your lawn. To combat these issues, Matthew says garden furniture should be placed on a decked area or patio if possible.

If you’re not able to avoid putting your table and chairs on the grass, you should use protective gliders and make sure the wooden feet don’t directly touch the damp earth below. To prevent your lawn from dying, he suggests rotating your garden furniture regularly to ensure all your grass gets exposure to the elements.

Matthew said: “Garden furniture can be an integral part of making our outdoor spaces a comfortable and enjoyable place to be. However, it’s important to consider where you can maximise its functionality and keep it protected from the elements.

“A common mistake many homeowners make is to place wooden garden furniture on the lawn, which can damage both the item and the grass. Prolonged exposure to moisture can damage a wooden item’s legs and can lead to damp stains, mould or rot, while metal furniture can be prone to rusting.

“On top of that, leaving heavy items on the lawn can harm the grass, preventing sunlight and air from reaching it and eventually leaving behind dead patches. The best place to locate garden furniture is on a stable surface such as a decked area or patio. If this isn’t possible and it must be on the lawn, it’s best to choose items that have protective gliders or feet at the bottom to prevent wood from being directly exposed to damp turf.

“It’s also a good idea to rotate locations regularly to prevent dead patches on your lawn.” Now that spring is in full swing, attention is seeing more Brits spending more time in outdoor spaces.

Homeowners are being advised that it now appears to be a good time to take garden furniture out of storage if it has been kept inside or under covers through the winter. Good-quality wooden items can last decades if cared for properly, including regular cleaning and maintenance.

Matthew said: “A deep clean with warm, soapy water and a soft bristle brush can make a world of difference, while an equal parts white vinegar and water solution can be used to tackle stubborn dirt or grime. When the item has dried, it may be worth applying a protective sealer, which is recommended every 12 to 18 months, depending on the type of wood.”

For more information, visit https://www.luxushomeandgarden.com/