Lawn ornaments can elevate the charm and personality of your home, but winter weather can take a toll on these decorative pieces if you don’t care for them properly. Even in Georgia, where winters are milder than in other parts of the country, the occasional frost or cold snap can cause damage. By following a few straightforward steps, you can prolong the life and appearance of your lawn ornaments. Read on to discover how to care for your lawn ornaments in winter and keep them in excellent condition no matter what the weather brings.
Clean Ornaments Before Storing Them
Start by giving your lawn ornaments a thorough cleaning. Dirt, grime, and organic debris can cause staining or degrade materials over time, especially when exposed to winter moisture. Use a soft brush or cloth and a mild detergent to gently clean ceramic, metal, or resin ornaments. Allow each item to fully dry before moving them to storage or covering them. This simple cleaning step helps maintain their aesthetic appeal and prevents long-term wear.
Cover or Store Delicate Ornaments
Some lawn ornaments are more fragile than others. For instance, while heavy-duty flagpoles can withstand extreme weather, lawn ornaments made from glass, ceramic, or lightweight materials typically cannot. Items made from delicate materials should be your priority when deciding what to cover or store for the winter. Place these pieces in a storage shed, garage, or another covered area to shield them from harsh weather. If storage isn’t an option, cover them securely with weather-resistant tarps or specialized outdoor covers.
Protect Against Freezing Temperatures
Even in Georgia, freezing temperatures can pose a risk to certain lawn ornaments, like those made of concrete, which may crack or chip when water freezes and expands. Move these ornaments to a dry spot if possible. If they are too large to move, elevate them slightly off the ground using bricks or wooden blocks to prevent water from pooling underneath. Dry surfaces are less likely to suffer damage from freezing temperatures.
Regularly Check for Damage
Inspect your lawn ornaments for any cracks, chips, or signs of wear before winter sets in, and continue to do so periodically throughout the season. Addressing minor damage immediately helps you avoid more significant issues later. For example, using filler to repair a small crack in a concrete ornament can prevent the crack from worsening when temperatures drop. Regular maintenance keeps your decorations looking great year-round and prevents costly replacements.
Use Protective Sealants
Sealants can act as a barrier against moisture, helping protect some ornaments from winter damage. Use a weatherproof sealant that’s appropriate for the material of your lawn ornament, whether it’s stone, wood, or metal. Apply the sealant in a dry, well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer’s recommended drying time. This added layer of protection can significantly extend the life of your lawn ornaments.
Taking steps to clean, protect, and inspect your decorations can make a big difference in maintaining their condition. Now that you know how to care for lawn ornaments in winter, you can have peace of mind knowing your outdoor space will look inviting year-round.
