Frequently asked questions
What is marine furniture?
Marine furniture refers to furniture specifically designed and constructed to withstand the unique challenges posed by marine and coastal environments. This type of furniture is built to be more resistant to exposure to salt water, UV radiation, moisture, and other harsh conditions commonly encountered at sea or near coastal areas.
What makes furniture suitable for marine and coastal environments?
Furniture suitable for marine and coastal environments is typically constructed using materials that are resistant to corrosion, moisture, and UV radiation. It may also feature specialised coatings, finishes, or treatments designed to enhance durability and longevity in challenging maritime conditions.
How can I protect my furniture from corrosion and salt water damage?
To protect furniture from corrosion and salt water damage it's essential to use corrosion-resistant materials such as high-grade stainless steel, aluminium, or marine-grade plastics. Regular cleaning and maintenance, as well as applying protective coatings or sealants, can also help prevent corrosion and extend the lifespan of marine and coastal furniture.
It's also important to use IMO fabrics which adhere to International Maritime Organization standards for safety and durability including resistance to abrasion, water and fire.
What can I do to avoid discolouration from UV exposure?
To avoid discolouration from UV exposure, consider using UV-resistant materials or finishes for your furniture. Additionally, providing shade or using protective covers when furniture is not in use can help minimise UV exposure and prevent fading or discolouration over time.
Are there eco-friendly options available for marine and coastal furniture?
Yes, there are eco-friendly options available for marine and coastal furniture. These may include furniture made from sustainable materials, such as stainless steel, reclaimed wood or recycled plastics, as well as products that are manufactured using environmentally friendly processes and practices. Look for the “Green Leaf” icon on our products to find sustainable options. You can also filter your searches to display sustainable results.
What maintenance routines should I follow to prolong the lifespan of my furniture?
To prolong the lifespan of marine and coastal furniture, it's essential to clean it regularly to remove salt, debris, and other contaminants. Additionally, inspecting furniture for damage, addressing any issues promptly, as well as storing it properly during off-season or inclement weather, can help maintain its integrity over time.
Can I customise marine and coastal furniture to suit my specific design preferences?
Yes, we offer customisation options for marine and coastal furniture, allowing you to tailor the design, materials, and finishes to suit your specific preferences and requirements. Contract furniture is typically made to order which means you have more flexibility to customise your coastal furniture to your exact needs, and design vision.
What should I consider when specifying marine furniture in a windy location?
When specifying marine furniture for a windy location, it's essential to choose sturdy, wind-resistant designs and materials. If you opt for lightweight furniture, such as aluminium frame chairs, you'll need to weigh it down to secure it properly. Using weighted bases can help prevent damage or displacement in windy conditions. With certain products, it may also be possible to customise them to have tie-down loops to anchor the furniture.
IMO regulations
International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations may apply to certain aspects of marine and coastal furniture, particularly for commercial vessels or maritime installations. IMO is a test for upholstered furniture that addresses the resistance to ignition and flame for maritime furniture. The IMO regulations also govern standards for abrasion and water on furniture used in marine environments.
What is marine-grade upholstery?
Marine-grade upholstery refers to upholstery materials specifically designed to withstand the harsh conditions encountered in marine environments. These materials are typically resistant to moisture, UV radiation, mould, mildew, and other factors that can degrade conventional upholstery fabrics.
Is marine fabric waterproof?
Marine fabric can be, but is not always, waterproof. It is, however, highly water-resistant and designed to repel moisture and resist penetration by water. These characteristics make it ideal for use in marine and coastal environments where exposure to water is common.
Does marine grade mean waterproof?
While marine-grade materials are designed to be highly resistant to moisture and water damage, they may not necessarily be waterproof. It's essential to consider factors such as seams, stitching, and proper installation to ensure effective water resistance. Generally speaking, all marine and coastal furniture will require a certain level of maintenance to ensure it stays in the best condition possible.
How do you care for marine upholstery?
Having a regular care and maintenance schedule is going to be crucial to the longevity of your furniture.
To care for marine upholstery, regularly clean it with mild soap and water to remove dirt, salt, and other contaminants.
Avoid using harsh cleaners as these can damage the fabric and other finishes.
Additionally, consider applying a protective fabric treatment or conditioner to help maintain water resistance and prolong the lifespan of the upholstery.
Ensure it's properly stored during the off-season in a dry, well-ventilated space, cover your furniture in inclement weather, and ensure you lift and ventilate your furniture covers to avoid condensation which will create a breeding ground for mould and mildew.
Is stainless steel marine grade?
Stainless steel can be manufactured to meet marine-grade specifications, which typically involve higher levels of corrosion resistance and durability compared to standard stainless steel. Marine-grade stainless steel is known as 316L stainless steel and it's commonly used in marine and coastal applications due to its ability to withstand exposure to salt water and harsh environmental conditions.