Living in Orlando means you get plenty of sunshine and warm weather, but it also means your patio furniture has to handle sudden rainstorms and long stretches of humidity. That kind of environment takes a toll, especially on outdoor pieces like wicker. If you enjoy hosting or just relaxing outside, then seeing your wicker bar sets chip, fade, or soften over time can be frustrating.
Wicker furniture gives patios that cozy, inviting look, and bar sets make it easier to entertain friends and family during Florida evenings. But without proper care, these pieces wear down faster in a climate like Orlando’s. Before the fall gatherings kick into full gear, it’s worth learning how local weather affects your wicker furniture and what you can do to reduce the damage.
Understanding Wicker Material
Wicker isn’t actually a material. It’s a way of weaving materials together. The result is stylish, structured furniture that tends to be lightweight and supportive. Outdoor furniture makers often use wicker for its unique look and versatility.
The most common types of wicker used in outdoor furniture across Orlando include natural and synthetic versions.
– Natural wicker: This type is made from plant-based materials like willow, bamboo, or rattan. It has a beautiful texture and an eco-friendly appeal, but it struggles against high humidity. When exposed to moisture regularly, it tends to absorb water, making it prone to mold, mildew, and eventually breakage.
– Synthetic wicker: Sometimes called resin or PE wicker, this version is made from plastic-based materials designed to mimic the look of natural fibers. Synthetic wicker is popular for outdoor use because it’s more resistant to moisture, heat, and daily wear.
Each type of wicker needs its own maintenance plan. While synthetic is more durable in Orlando’s weather, it can still show signs of wear without regular upkeep. Natural wicker may come with a classic charm, but in high humidity, even the most beautiful pieces can start falling apart if not protected correctly.
How Weather Changes Affect Wicker
Orlando is known for quick temperature swings, intermittent rain, and lots of strong sun. These changing patterns can break down wicker furniture faster than you may think.
Here’s how local weather tends to affect wicker bar sets:
– Humidity and rain: High humidity is one of the biggest issues for natural wicker. These woven fibers swell, shift, and even rot when they absorb too much moisture. You might also see mold or mildew. While synthetic wicker is better for wetter climates, water can still pool in joints and crevices, feeding bacteria or warping the surface underneath the weave.
– Sunlight: Sun exposure breaks down both types of wicker over time. UV rays weaken the integrity of the material, making it fade or become brittle. Furniture left out in full sun for too long may start cracking or developing rough patches, especially on high-contact areas like chair backs or armrests.
– Temperature swings: Early fall in Orlando still brings hot daytime weather but cooler nights. Materials expand and contract with these changes, and over time, this can cause the wicker weave to loosen or sag. For furniture exposed to daily changes in temperature, this cycle fatigues the structure and shortens its lifespan.
If your bar set is placed out by the pool and uncovered, it deals with direct sun, frequent splashes, and potential afternoon showers. These conditions wear down materials fast unless you take steps to shield them.
Tips To Protect Wicker Bar Sets
Giving your bar sets the best shot at long-term use takes some simple but steady care. Here are a few smart steps you can take to protect your investment:
1. Covers and repositioning: When dark skies roll in, waterproof covers provide immediate protection. Keep your covers close by and throw them over your bar set before rain hits. If your furniture isn’t used daily, consider moving it into the shade or a covered patio during prolonged storms or hot spells. This habit can prevent warping and fading over time.
2. UV-protective sprays: Regular sun can dry out even synthetic wicker. Your local hardware or outdoor supply store likely carries protective sprays made for UV exposure. Spritzing your furniture occasionally creates a light barrier that helps preserve its look and structure.
3. Shade solutions: A good umbrella or shade sail can give your whole patio a break from intense mid-day rays. Even partial shade can go a long way in slowing down the wear on both natural and synthetic wicker.
4. Cleaning routine: Set a quick cleaning schedule. Just rinsing, dusting, or gently scrubbing can prevent buildup and staining. Use a soft brush with a mild soap and water mix on synthetic wicker. For natural fiber pieces, go lighter—dust with a cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment. Avoid soaking natural wicker, even during cleanings.
Following these habits, especially during the fall when rain is brief but intense, will help your pieces last longer and stay more comfortable.
When To Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, trouble with wicker furniture goes beyond what routine cleaning can fix. Knowing the signs of deeper damage helps you act before a bar set becomes unsafe or unusable.
Call in the pros if you notice:
– Cracked or split weaving that isn’t just surface-deep
– Discoloration that lingers after cleaning or shows up suddenly
– Sections where the weave is drooping or has come apart
– Recurrent mold or mildew that keeps coming back, mostly in natural wicker
If your furniture is wobbling, scratched, or generally looking tired no matter what you try, it might be time to have professionals inspect and fix the damage. Palm Casual’s restoration team uses the right tools and materials to preserve the look and feel of wicker, ensuring your bar set’s structure is safe and looks like new again.
Wicker is delicate in its own way, and putting it in expert hands helps it hold up against materials it was never meant to face.
Keeping Your Wicker Furniture Looking Fresh in Orlando
Wicker furniture can help turn any outdoor space into a relaxing spot to enjoy company, meals, or quiet nights. But in Orlando’s mix of sun, moisture, and warm nights, this material needs care to stay looking its best.
Light cleaning routines, well-placed covers, and shaded seating areas all help your bar sets handle each season with less wear. UV sprays and protection from standing water make a noticeable difference too. And when the weave begins to wear or look off, calling in a professional can often save the furniture before it needs full replacement.
Being attentive to your furniture not only keeps your patio looking sharp, but it also saves time and worry down the road. You’ll enjoy your outdoor setups longer when you know they’re cared for and protected from the weather they face every day.
Whether you’re relaxing alone or hosting a gathering, enjoying your outdoor space is all about comfort and style. For those looking to keep their wicker bar sets in Orlando in top shape, Palm Casual is here to help. Find expert advice and services to maintain your furniture through Orlando’s changing seasons. Explore our range of solutions and make sure your patio is always ready for fun in the sun or cozy evenings.
