That's an excellent and very practical question! The answer isn't a simple yes or no—it depends heavily on what your bench is made of. Let's break it down.
For benches made of teak, high-quality polyethylene resin, or powder-coated aluminum, you can typically leave them outside all winter. These materials are champions of weather resistance. Teak naturally weathers to a silvery gray and is highly rot-resistant. Modern synthetic resins and good aluminum finishes won't rust, crack, or degrade from moisture and freezing temps. A quick clean before winter is still a good idea.
However, for iron or steel (unless it's galvanized or has superb powder-coating), untreated wood, or wicker, the garage is your best bet. Moisture and freeze-thaw cycles are their enemies, leading to rust, warping, rot, and a significantly shortened lifespan.
Regardless of material, if you choose to leave your bench outside, a few steps will help it brave the season:
1. Give it a thorough cleaning to remove dirt and organic matter.
2. Apply a fresh coat of sealant or oil to wood benches (like teak) if needed.
3. Invest in a high-quality, breathable, waterproof cover. Secure it tightly to prevent wind from whipping it and trapping moisture.
4. If possible, move it to a slightly sheltered spot, like under an eave.
Storing it in the garage? Great choice for most benches! Just make sure it's clean and dry before storing to prevent mildew. If space is tight, consider a sheltered corner on a patio with a robust cover.
Ultimately, check the manufacturer's guidelines. When in doubt, storing sensitive materials is the safer, longer-term investment. A little care this fall means a ready-to-use, beautiful bench come spring