How to Prevent Plastic Chairs from Cracking

2. How to Prevent Plastic Chairs from Cracking: Tips for Longevity and Durability • Plastic chairs are popular for their affordability, versatility, and easy maintenance, and they are highly favored in homes, offices, cafes, and outdoor areas. Plastic chairs are not exempted from wear and tear like any other furniture, though. The most frequent problem that people experience with plastic chairs is cracking, which may happen over time because of many factors such as improper use, external conditions, and poor maintenance. • Cracked plastic chairs not only affect the visual beauty of your environment, but they are also unsafe and uncomfortable. Luckily, with the right care and attention, you can avoid your plastic chairs from cracking and make them last longer while keeping their functionality and appearance intact. • In this blog, we will discuss some necessary tips on how to avoid plastic chairs from cracking and increase their lifespan.

3. 1. Avoid Exposure to Extreme Temperatures • One of the most frequent causes of plastic chair cracks is continuous exposure to intense temperatures. Too much heat or cold can be weakening to plastic, making it brittle and subject to cracking. This is particularly so for outside plastic chairs which are subjected to weather conditions. • How to Prevent It: • Keep Plastic Chairs Inside: In case you possess outdoor plastic chairs, attempt keeping them inside your home during adverse weather conditions like severe heat or cold. When it is impossible, cover them using a protecting tarpaulin or a furniture cover to keep them protected from the sun, rain, and snow. • Stay Away from Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight exposure can lead to plastic fading and cracking with time. If your plastic chairs are placed outside, try placing them in the shade or using umbrellas or canopies to limit direct sunlight exposure. • Stay Away from Hot Surfaces: Avoid placing plastic chairs close to heat sources such as stoves, heaters, or fireplaces. Too much heat can warp and crack plastic, weakening the chair's structure.

4. 2. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance • Plastic chairs can accumulate dirt, grime, and spills over a period of time, which can cause damage to the surface and put a strain on the material. Regular cleaning is not just essential for looks but also for the overall well-being of your plastic furniture. • How to Prevent It: • Clean Frequently: Clean your plastic chairs with a soft sponge or cloth and mild soap to get rid of dirt, food crumbs, and grease. Never use strong chemicals or abrasive cleaning equipment, as these can scratch the surface and lead to wear and tear. • Rinse After Salt or Chlorine Exposure: For plastic chairs that are placed outdoors, particularly close to the ocean or swimming pools, it's best to rinse them using fresh water to eliminate salt or chlorine residue, which can etch the plastic eventually.

5. 3. Don't Overload the Chairs • Plastic chairs also have weight capacities that depend on the quality of the material and the design. Overloading the suggested weight can strain the plastic and make it crack or break when pressed. This is particularly the case if the chair constantly faces loads, like individuals sitting back aggressively or setting heavy items on the chair. • Prevention: • Check Weight Capacity: Always verify the weight capacity of your plastic chairs prior to use. Never put heavy items on them or let them be used by people who are heavier than the recommended weight capacity. • Distribute Weight Evenly: When several individuals are sitting on the same chair, have them sit with weight evenly distributed so that no area is strained. Leaning too far back or unevenly shifting weight can result in stress points that can eventually cause cracks.

6. 4. Keep Plastic Chairs in a Stable Environment • Plastic chairs are more susceptible to cracking when they undergo abrupt movements, impacts, or excessive bending. For example, pulling a chair on a hard surface floor or falling it from a high platform may create cracks in the material. Also, uneven surfaces may exert extra pressure on the structure of the chair. • How to Prevent It: • Lift, Don’t Drag: Always lift plastic chairs when moving them instead of dragging them across the floor. This prevents the legs and seat from experiencing unnecessary stress or pressure, which can lead to cracks over time. • Use on Even Surfaces: Put your plastic chairs on even, smooth surfaces to reduce the risk of instability. Do not put them on rough or uneven surfaces since the friction and pressure will cause damage to the plastic.

7. 5. Guard against Chemical Exposure • Plastic is vulnerable to some chemicals, which can degrade or cause it to crack. When subjected to strong chemicals such as bleach, oils, or solvents, the plastic's molecular structure weakens and is more prone to cracking. • How to Prevent It: • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Don't use harsh chemicals or abrasives when cleaning your plastic chairs. Use only mild soap and water or specifically formulated plastic surface cleaners. • Store Away from Chemical Spills: If your plastic chairs find themselves in areas where chemicals or oils are utilized (e.g., kitchens or workshops), go out of your way to avoid chemical spills that might harm the material.

8. 6. Inspect and Repair Minor Damages Early • At other times, slight chips or cracks may appear in plastic chairs because of minor bumps or wear and tear. The cracks might not appear to be serious initially but end up causing more damage over time.