Here are some Frequently Asked Questions and answers from our team of experts:
CAN I LEAVE MY UMBRELLA OPEN IN THE WIND?
ARD Outdoor uses the highest quality parts and materials in the manufacturing of all our umbrellas. However, we always recommend folding the umbrella away on windy days or when left unsupervised. You never know when a gust of wind can whip up and creating undue stress on the umbrella mechanism. Wind damage is not covered under warranty.
IS ARD OUTDOOR FURNITURE HEAVY?
Most of our collections are made of Aluminum which is a lightweight, hollow metal. Solid Plantation Grown Teak, Stainless Steel, and Concrete items weigh more due to the density of the materials used.
HOW FREQUENTLY MUST I MAINTAIN THE FURNITURE?
We provide high-quality furniture that is low-maintenance. Just like washing your car left outside, you will want to rinse off dust, pollen, bird droppings etc. Only simple regular cleaning with mild soap and water is required. Read More Cleaning & Maintenance tips.
MY CUSHIONS ARE DIRTY – WHAT SHOULD I DO?
The simplest way to clean your cushions is to take a damp cloth or mild detergent (Dish liquid and water) and gently blot (do not rub) the stain with a soft, clean, damp cloth. Rinse the cushion at an angle to remove any residue and then leave it out in the sun to dry. Read More Cleaning & Maintenance tips.
MY OUTDOOR CUSHIONS ARE SOAKED FROM RAIN- NOW WHAT?
Sunbrella fabric is water resistant not waterproof. Depending on the force applied, water can penetrate the Sunbrella fabric. This water may be difficult to exit from the bottom of the cushion due to its excellent water repellent properties. Here are some suggestions
Cushions with patented Quick Dry Foam – Simply stand and tilt the cushion so that water is diverted towards the zipper. Fabric drying time varies as a result of temperature, humidity, sun & wind exposure etc.
Cushions with High Quality Outdoor Foam are more likely to hold water. Follow the same procedure of lifting and tilting cushions so that water is diverted towards the zipper. Improve air circulation in the drying process by opening zipper DO NOT REMOVE PILLOW CASINGS and leave standing in well-ventilated area. Drying time varies pending the amount of water in the foam, temperature, humidity, sun & wind exposure, etc. This high quality outdoor foam will last for years and is ideal for covered areas as it should not be frequently exposed to water. We recommend you store cushions when not in use.
DO YOU SELL PROTECTIVE COVERS?
Yes, on request we provide Canadian made custom furniture covers from templates that fit all our collections. We recommend cushions are ALWAYS DRY PRIOR to covering to avoid creating a dark, damp environment where mould & mildew could grow. We also sell water-proof storage containers to easily store and protect cushions from the elements.
YOU USE GLASS ON SOME ITEMS OUTSIDE – ISN’T IT DANGEROUS?
We use Tempered glass which, if broken will crumble into small granular chunks instead of splintering into jagged shards. Tempered glass is 4 times stronger than standard glass, it’s much safer and suitable to be left outdoors all year around.
CAN I LEAVE PATIO FURNITURE OUTSIDE IN WINTER?
Yes, our furniture can be left outside all year round. We recommend that cushions are placed indoors for winter and the frames could be left out with no issues.
WILL YOUR FURNITURE RUST?
Powder coated Aluminum, which is used in most of our collections does not rust. Fun fact: Its surface is protected by a natural layer of aluminum oxide. This prevents the metal below from coming into contact with air and oxygen. The layer of aluminum oxide does not flake off, unlike rust which can flake off the surface of iron and steel objects. Please note that coastal conditions are harsher and thereby more susceptible to rust on finishes like Stainless Steel. It is your responsibility to hose down the furniture regularly to prevent the appearance of rust as a result of the saline attaching to metal.
DOES TEAK CHANGE COLOUR?
Solid plantation grown Teak has a golden honey colour when new, and after time it naturally fades into a light grey patina. The colour change is only cosmetic and does not affect the strength of the wood. If you prefer the golden colour there are things you can do to slow down the aging process. Some regular cleaning is also necessary to keep the wood looking beautiful. Read More Cleaning & Maintenance tips.
SHOULD I TREAT TEAK WITH OIL?
Teak is a dense, oily wood. The natural oil present within teak wood offers it protection from pests such as termites. The oil also keeps water from seeping into the wood. This means teak furniture can be left outside and endure years of rain, wind, heat, and cold. Treating teak with oil depletes the wood’s natural oils, and the wood becomes dependent on a periodic external oil treatment. However, the extra moisture of the oil also creates the ideal environment for mildew to flourish. Therefore, this method is not recommended. Read More Cleaning & Maintenance tips.
CAN I MIX & MATCH FURNITURE COLLECTIONS & FABRICS?
Yes! Our team of expert design consultants can help suggest mix and match options from most collections to create a unique look.
CAN I USE OUTDOOR FURNITURE INDOORS?
Yes! Many of our commercial and residential clients choose our stylish high-performance furniture for low maintenance indoor settings to create a more carefree, yet stylish lifestyle.