Should You Cover a Picnic Bench in Winter? (UK Storage Guide)

Yes, you should cover a picnic bench in winter - but only with a breathable, waterproof cover that allows air to circulate. A picnic table cover keeps the worst of the rain and frost off the timber while letting trapped moisture escape. A non-breathable tarpaulin does the opposite: it traps condensation against the wood and accelerates rot.

If you have a wooden picnic bench that you want to last, what you do between November and March matters as much as any summer treatment. The good news is that proper winter protection takes about 15 minutes to set up and costs very little.

Covering vs storing - which is better?

Both work, but each suits different situations. Here is how they compare:

| Approach | Best for | Pros | Cons | |---|---|---|---| | Breathable cover (in situ) | Heavy benches, permanent garden setups | Quick, no lifting, bench stays in position | Cover needs securing; bench still exposed to ground moisture | | Indoor storage (shed/garage) | Lighter benches, available space | Full weather protection, timber stays dry | Needs space; heavy benches are difficult to move | | Raising off ground + cover | Any bench, especially on grass or soil | Reduces ground moisture and direct rain | Requires blocks or feet and a cover | | No protection | Fully treated, robust benches | Zero effort | Shortens lifespan, especially for untreated timber |

For most people, a breathable cover combined with raising the bench off the ground is the most practical option. You do not need a shed or a strong back - just the right cover and a pair of bricks.

How to cover a picnic bench correctly

Getting the cover right matters more than people think. A badly fitted cover can cause more problems than none at all.

Choose a breathable, waterproof cover

Look for covers made from woven polyethylene or similar breathable fabric. Avoid standard blue tarpaulins and plastic sheeting - they trap moisture and create a greenhouse effect underneath.

A good picnic table cover should:

• Fit snugly over the full bench without pooling on the table top
• Have ventilation panels or a loose base that allows airflow
• Include tie-down straps or a drawstring hem to secure it in wind
• Be UV-resistant if it will stay on into spring

Raise the bench off the ground

Timber sitting directly on damp soil or wet grass absorbs moisture from below. Place bricks, paving slabs or purpose-made furniture risers under the feet. Even 5 cm of clearance makes a difference, because air can circulate underneath and the end grain stays drier.

Secure the cover properly

Essex gets its share of winter storms. An unsecured cover will blow off in the first gale and leave your bench exposed. Use the straps provided, or weigh down the cover edges with sandbags. Bungee cords hooked under the seat slats work well too.

Check periodically

Lift the cover once a month during winter and let the bench air for a few hours on a dry day. This prevents any trapped condensation from building up. A quick visual check also lets you spot any issues early - a loose cover, pooling water or unexpected damage.

Getting your bench ready for spring

When the days start warming up in March or April, remove the cover and give the bench a proper inspection:

1. Brush off any debris that has collected over winter.
2. Check for mould or algae - a scrub with soapy water usually deals with it. See our guide on how to clean a wooden picnic bench for the full method.
3. Check the timber for soft spots or cracks.
4. Re-oil or re-stain if the surface finish has worn thin.
5. Tighten any bolts or fixings that may have loosened.

A bench built from C24 construction-grade timber and properly covered through winter should come out in spring looking much as it went in. The cover does the hard work - you just need to freshen it up.

Browse our accessories range for covers and care products that suit our benches.

Frequently asked questions

Can I leave a wooden picnic bench uncovered all winter?

You can, but it will age faster. Rain, frost and damp accelerate surface weathering, and untreated timber can develop mould or early rot. A breathable cover adds years to the bench's life with very little effort.

What is the best material for a picnic table cover?

Woven polyethylene or breathable polyester with a waterproof coating. These materials keep rain out while allowing moisture vapour to escape. Avoid PVC and standard plastic tarpaulins - they trap condensation against the wood.

Should I oil my bench before covering it for winter?

Ideally, yes. An autumn coat of exterior oil seals the surface and adds a layer of moisture protection before the wet months. Let the oil cure fully - usually 24 to 48 hours - before fitting the cover.

Do I need to move my picnic bench off grass in winter?

You do not need to move it, but raising it off the ground helps. Place bricks or slabs under the feet to prevent direct contact with wet soil. This reduces moisture absorption through the end grain and improves airflow underneath.

Built for the British winter

Every bench we make in our Chelmsford workshop uses C24 construction-grade timber chosen to handle the UK climate. A good cover and a bit of care will keep it in strong shape for years. If you are looking for a bench that is built to weather the seasons, tell us your requirements and we will make it to order - with delivery across Essex and beyond, typically within 7 working days.

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