Porch decorations tend to take a beating from rain, extreme temperatures, and even the occasional pest. Sadly, no matter how often you clean your porch, you’ll need to replace your decorations eventually. But when is the right time? Read on to learn the five signs it’s time to replace your porch decorations.
Rusted Metal
Rust is the enemy of metal porch decorations. While there are ways to remove rust using special cleaners, sometimes it’s just not worth the effort for smaller decorations. One reason to get rid of rusting decor is because it can leave stains on other surfaces. As a rule, any outdoor metal decorations should have a protective coating to prevent or slow the buildup of rust.
Molding Textiles
Cushions, blankets, and doormats are necessary for making your porch feel warm and comfortable. However, those softer materials are also more likely to harbor mold during humid parts of the year. If you notice a smell around your outdoor cushions, it’s time for them to go. Additionally, you should replace your doormat when you notice it shedding more than usual.
Pest Infestation
There’s nothing quite as gross as picking up a flowerpot and finding a hill of ants or other pest infestation underneath. Depending on the type of pest and the item they’re inhabiting, you may just need to throw out the infested piece and replace it with something new. Remember to keep debris off your porch if you want to avoid attracting pests.
Rotting Wood
If you don’t keep up with resealing your wooden outdoor furniture, you could end up losing it. Rot occurs during moist and warm seasons as fungus takes root and starts to decompose the wood. While it is possible to repair some smaller sections with minimal wood rot, there’s no way to get back the parts that are extensively damaged.
Style Changes
Another sign it’s time to replace your porch decorations is when your style changes! It’s OK to get rid of old decorations to make room for new ones. Donate your old decor if it’s in good shape, or sell it in a yard sale. Then, you can update your home with your new style.
