Winter is just around the corner and we all are preparing for the winter season. Not only our houses and gardens, but also our balconies need special care to stay safe in winter. Below we will show you how you can make a balcony winter-proof.
Here we give you some practical tips on what measures you should take on your balcony to make wintering easier. Furniture, flowers, everything needs to be properly cared for and it is worth the effort because you will be able to enjoy the popular resort for longer.
First, clean and tidy up the balcony thoroughly
Just because it's winter doesn't mean you should leave your balcony messy. Before the cold weather comes, you should clean your balcony thoroughly and put away everything you don't need over the winter. Removing cushions and throws is an important step in waterproofing the balcony, as winter moisture will damage your beautiful cushions.
Then clean the balcony furniture and cover it with waterproof material to protect it from the moisture. Covering furniture is important when it is wood or metal, but it is also a good idea for plastic furniture.
The balcony is a convenient place to store things you don't have space for at home. Make sure the storage location you choose is waterproof and freeze-proof to protect your belongings.
Don’t forget to clean the gutters
Gutters on the balcony also need to be cleaned so that rainwater and snow cannot build up. It is imperative that the pipes be thoroughly cleaned by the end of autumn. A shovel and hand brush can easily be used to remove leaves and mud from gutters. This means the water can flow away unhindered.
Do not leave water on the balcony becausefreezes in cold weatherit and can cause damage. You should always be on the lookout for signs of a leak and do a thorough inspection at least once a year. As soon as you notice signs of balcony damage, such as: If there are problems such as water accumulation, lifting or cracked tiles, or missing seals and joints, have the damaged areas repaired before winter arrives.
Winterize your balcony with a cozy shelter
To ensure balcony protection in winter, you should provide shelter. You can use various insulating materials to protect yourself from rain and wind, and you can also use tall potted plants or tall planters. A temporary winter balcony roof is not only a great way to ward off the worst of the weather, but also to make your balcony winter-proof and cozy. Depending on what type of canopy you build, it can also help insulate both the balcony and your apartment.
With fairy lights and lanterns you can create coziness on the balcony in winter. Don't just use them at Christmas, light them up as soon as it gets dark and cold and enjoy the cozy view from your living room.
Winter protection for potted plants on the balcony
Of course, you should take care of your potted plants on the balcony in winter. All potted plants on the balcony must be protected from freezing temperatures with mulch, because the root balls of plants in pots and planters are not as protected as in the ground and can freeze quickly.
While heat-loving exotics have to be kept indoors over the winter,can garden plants in potsStay outdoors with sufficient winter protection. Wrap the pots with insulating film or bags. The balcony and pot plants come from a wide variety of regions. We should consider plants' individual temperature tolerances and plan indoor and outdoor times.
To overwinter the plants on the balcony, get them into good shape by cutting them back and checking for pests. Reduce watering for the winter season because most plants will enter dormancy.
To ensure that you plant your balcony winter-proof, choose suitable perennials.Here are some ideas.
Clean and set up the birdhouses
Take care not only of the plants on the balcony, but also of the birds in winter. Clean the bird feeders and stock them with suitable food for the winter. Also provide water and change it regularly in case it freezes. Place the birdhouses under an overhang and make sure they are in a place protected from wind and cold.
Also read:Winterizing your balcony – How to prepare your outdoor area for winter with simple steps
