UK households urged to do this one thing on Sunday

Households in the UK are being urged to do one thing this weekend as Storm Amy wreaks havoc across the country. Storm Amy has hit the UK with 100 mph winds battering several areas in the UK.

Several yellow warnings and an amber warning of winds and torrential rain have been issued for Saturday and Sunday. As the weather turns unsettled, experts have requested the homeowners to take necessary preventative measures to keep their gardens protected from the stormy conditions. DIY expert and senior brand manager Jimmy Englezos at Ronseal has revealed crucial tips on how Brits can protect their garden furniture, fences and decking against the weather elements.

The expert has advised to use a weather-repellent sealant or stain on decking during the extreme weather conditions.

He explained: "Seal the decking with a liquid sealant or decking stain to protect the wood from harsh weather as it blocks moisture from entering the wood. Sweep the decking with a stiff broom before applying the staining to remove debris, leaves and dirt so it can work into the grooves."

Applying a weather-repellent sealant or stain to your decking during stormy conditions isn't ideal. For best results, the wood surface should be clean, dry, and free from moisture-otherwise, the product may not adhere properly or could trap water, leading to damage like warping or mildew.

It's better to wait for a stretch of dry weather with mild temperatures to ensure the sealant cures effectively and protects your decking long-term.

He said: "As time-consuming as taking furniture in and out of storage like sheds can be, it's necessary to keep it safe from high winds and rains. Although some garden furniture can withstand extreme weather, it can be worse for wear when left out, so it's always best to pop it away before a big storm.

"Rain can affect furniture in different ways depending on the material. Metal garden furniture is prone to rust and corrosion which results in a discoloured, flaky, orange-brown appearance. Corrosion can also cause it to look blue or green.

"Some signs of water damage in wooden furniture are discolouration, mould growth, warped and a damp, musty smell."