Leaving your weight bench outside might seem like no big deal, but trust me, it’s not a good idea. If you leave it out there for too long, you’ll come back to find its all rusty, the upholstery is cracked, and it just feels like it’s been through the wringer. All that exposure to the elements can really take a toll on your equipment, so it’s worth taking the time to bring it inside or cover it up when you’re not using it.
The best part is, keeping your outdoor gym gear safe is actually pretty simple and won’t break the bank. One thing that really makes a difference is a good weight bench cover for outdoors – it’s a straightforward purchase that can really help extend the life of your equipment.
Here is what you need to know about keeping your bench in good condition all year round.
Most weight benches are designed primarily for indoor use. When you move one outside, it is suddenly dealing with things it was never built for:
You can’t expect a steel frame to last forever, but it’s usually the upholstery that gives out first. When the vinyl starts to crack, water seeps in and the foam inside starts to break down. Before you know it, what was once a sturdy piece of furniture starts to feel flimsy and worn out – and it doesn’t matter if you paid a pretty penny for it. The damage can happen quickly, and it’s not just about looks, it’s about the overall quality of the piece. Once it starts to deteriorate, it’s hard to reverse the damage, so it’s worth keeping an eye on your furniture’s upholstery to catch any problems before they get out of hand.
When it comes to covers, you can’t just use anything. Throwing a cheap polyester sheet over your bench might keep some of the rain out, but it won’t last long and won’t do much to protect it from the sun’s harsh rays either. What really counts is having a good quality cover that can withstand the elements. A good cover should be able to keep your bench dry and protected from the sun’s UV rays, which can cause damage and discoloration over time. So, what makes a good cover?
You can really tell the difference. A water-resistant fabric will keep you dry in a light drizzle, but it’s no match for a heavy downpour. On the other hand, a fully waterproof weight bench cover is made with a special coated or laminated fabric that keeps water out, no matter how hard it’s raining. When you’re shopping for a cover, make sure to look for one with sealed seams – it’s not just the fabric that needs to be waterproof, the seams are usually where water sneaks in first.
Sunlight can really hurt outdoor gear, more than you’d think. Using fabric that’s made to withstand UV rays helps keep your covers from falling apart. It also shields the padding underneath from getting all faded and cracked after sitting in the sun all summer. This way, your equipment stays looking good and lasts longer.
When it comes to covers, size really matters. If it’s too big, it’s just going to flap around in the wind, collect water in the folds, and before you know it, it’s blown off completely. On the other hand, if it’s too small, it won’t stay on properly or cover the parts that need protection the most. That’s where a custom-made cover comes in – it’s tailored to fit your specific bench perfectly, not just some generic shape that’s close enough. A good fit is essential, and that’s exactly what you get with a custom-made cover. It’s not just about looks; it’s about making sure your bench is properly protected from the elements.
You might be surprised to learn that a cover with no airflow can actually be a problem. The issue is that moisture can get stuck underneath, which creates an ideal environment for mildew to grow on your upholstery. A good cover should have small vents that allow air to circulate while keeping the rain out. This way, you can prevent moisture from building up and reduce the risk of mildew. It’s all about finding the right balance – you want to keep your furniture dry, but you also need to let it breathe.
You can find generic weight bench covers at most sports stores or online marketplaces, and they’re usually pretty affordable. They’ll give you some basic protection, but the thing is, weight benches come in all different shapes and sizes – like flat benches, adjustable ones, and those with extra features like leg curl attachments or preacher curl stations. Because of this, a generic cover will never fit perfectly, it’s always a bit of a compromise.
We make sure every waterproof bench cover we create at Curtains and Covers UK is tailored to fit your outdoor bench perfectly. To get started, simply measure your bench and send us the dimensions. We’ll use those measurements to craft a cover that fits like a glove, with no excess fabric bunching up or gaps for water to seep in. And you won’t have to worry about the cover blowing off in the wind, because it’s made specifically for your bench, not some standard size that might be too small. This way, you can enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about your bench getting damaged.
This fabric is really tough and can withstand the sun’s rays, plus it’s completely waterproof. It’s the same high-quality material used for covering boats, garden furniture, and other outdoor gear all over the UK.
Measuring takes about three minutes. You need:
Length — from the top of the back pad to the end of the seat
Width — across the widest point of the bench (usually the back pad)
Height — from the floor to the top of the back pad at its highest adjustment
When you’re measuring your bench for a cover, don’t forget to include any attachments it might have, like a leg extension or preacher curl. You’ll want to measure those separately to make sure the cover fits properly. And if you’re unsure about the size, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and go a bit larger. A cover that’s a centimetre or two too big will still fit fine and give you some extra room at the bottom.
● Remember to put the cover on after you’re done, every time – it’s not just rain that can cause problems, dew and moisture that builds up overnight can be just as bad for it over time.
● Wipe the bench down before covering it to avoid trapping moisture underneath
● Check the cover every few weeks for any pooling water and brush it off
● Store the cover indoors during long periods when the bench is not being used
Investing in a good outdoor weight bench cover is a smart move. It might seem like an extra expense, but trust me, it’s worth it. A proper cover can save you from the hassle and cost of replacing rusty equipment or fixing torn upholstery. You might not think you need it at first, but when the time comes, you’ll be glad you got one.
If you’re looking for a cover that’s tailored to your specific bench, rather than a one-size-fits-all solution, Curtains and Covers UK can help. They create custom covers using heavy-duty, waterproof fabric that fits perfectly and stays in place. This means you can get a cover that’s made to measure, ensuring a snug and secure fit for your bench.
Q: How do I know which size weight bench cover to order?
A: Measure the length, width, and height of your bench at its largest points. If your bench is adjustable, measure it at its tallest setting. When ordering a custom cover, provide these three measurements and we will make it to fit. If you are unsure, our team can help you work out the right dimensions before you order.
Q: Can a waterproof weight bench cover outdoor handle heavy UK rain?
A: Yes — a properly made cover uses coated, waterproof fabric with sealed or welded seams, which holds up in sustained heavy rain. The key is choosing a cover with fully waterproof fabric rather than just water-resistant material, and making sure the seams are sealed, as this is typically where cheaper covers fail first.
Q: Will leaving a cover on permanently damage my weight bench?
A: Not if the cover has adequate ventilation. A cover with small ventilation points allows air to circulate, which prevents moisture and mildew building up underneath. If you notice condensation collecting under the cover, it is worth giving the bench a quick wipe and airing it out occasionally.
Q: How long does a good weight bench cover last outdoors?
A: A quality heavy-duty cover made from UV-stabilised, waterproof fabric will typically last three to five years outdoors with normal use. Cheaper covers using thin or uncoated fabric may only last one season before the material degrades. Storing your cover indoors when the bench is not being used for extended periods will also extend its life.
Q: Do you make covers for benches with leg extensions or preacher curl attachments?
A: Yes. When you order a custom cover, simply include the measurements for any attachments and note them in your order. We make the cover to accommodate the full shape of your bench, so all parts are properly covered rather than leaving attachments exposed.
Leaving your weight bench outside might seem like no big deal, but trust me, it’s not a good idea. If you leave it out there
Industrial machinery and equipment doesn’t come cheap. A CNC machine, a generator, a hydraulic press — these are assets that need protecting when they’re not
Typically replies within a minute.
