As the threat of extreme weather grows, bringing heavy storms, high winds and flooding, gardening and outdoor enthusiasts should prepare and secure their outdoor spaces. High winds can tip over furniture, lift lightweight planters, and damage decorative lighting, while heavy rain can cause flooding if it has nowhere to go.

So, to help protect your yard from a storm and reduce the impact of extreme weather damage, I asked the experts for a plan of action, and it's based on a three-prong approach.

Ahead of bad weather, Jon Saeed, managing director at Lighting Legends, says it’s worth checking your yard and thinking about what strong winds could affect. “Things like garden furniture, plant pots and decorative ornaments can easily be blown over, while outdoor lights and their fixings may be put under extra strain when the weather turns,” he says.

Outdoor furniture
Garden chairs and tables can shift or topple over in strong winds, particularly if they are lightweight. He suggests storing smaller pieces in a shed or garage, and securing heavier furniture so it is less likely to move.

Cushions and decorative outdoor rugs will also get a beating if left out in a storm, so bring them inside, or store them in a waterproof container to keep them dry.

Outdoor lighting
Lights can be particularly vulnerable to strong winds and wet weather. Saeed suggests checking the hooks and supports on permanent fixings and making sure cables aren’t hanging loosely.

He also advises, “Unplug any lights, and if strong winds are expected, take down string lights to prevent bulbs from shattering.”

Source link