Protect outdoor statues, sculptures, fountains and decorative stonework with a Winter Cover
Conservation Winter Covers protect garden statues, sculpture and outdoor decorative stonework from damage caused by frost, snow, heavy rainfall and fluctuating temperatures during the colder and wetter seasons.
Without proper protection, historic statuary and valuable works of art are left exposed to the ravages of winter and can become cracked or damaged. As a conservator, curator, estate manager or private collector, safeguarding these treasures is a priority, and investing in conservation Winter Covers now can save significant costs in repair and restoration later.
Cliveden Conservation offers two different types of Winter Covers, a three-layered thermal system for colder climates with freezing temperatures and a single layer protective cover to provide a solution for warmer wetter conditions.
Our protective covers for statues, sculptures, works of art and other outdoor decorative objects are made to specification and come in a range of different colours. Their secure and user-friendly design means they can be easily installed and removed, saving time and effort.
Winter Cover: Three-Layer Thermal Protection
Climate: Cold and Freezing Conditions
Cliveden Conservation has designed a three-layer, moisture impermeable system that is windproof, waterproof, insulating and provides UV protection. This cover tackles water infiltration and the freeze thaw cycle, the process that causes cracks to widen and deepen over winter.
Standard Features:
- Eliminates water penetration
- Reduces biological growth (green algae) and soiling from guano
- Three-layer breathable system
- Stops deterioration through wetting and drying cycles.
Extra Benefits:
- Allows air circulation and creates a stable micro-environment
- Reduces temperature fluctuations
- Insulates against freezing conditions
Suitable for outdoor statuary and decorative objects made of stone, marble, terracotta and cast concrete. Available in bottle green, olive green or navy blue.
Winter Cover: Single-Layer Protection
Climate: Wetter and Humid Conditions
Our marine grade canvas cover is waterproof and provides UV protection. It is designed to keep outdoor sculpture and modern works of art made from a variety of materials dry and clean throughout the seasons. It is suited to larger or more complex shapes and sizes.
Standard Features:
- Eliminates water penetration
- Reduces biological growth (green algae) and soiling from guano
- Stops deterioration through wetting and drying cycles.
Extra Benefits:
- Marine grade canvas construction
- Prevents UV fading and water staining
- Suited to a wider range of materials and larger or more complex objects
- Range of colours to suit your environment
Suitable for outdoor sculptures and other works of art made of stone, resin, wood, metal and cast concrete. Available in a range of colours.
Why Winter Covers are a good investment
Investing in protective conservation Winter Covers for an individual piece or outdoor art collection is a smart decision.
It prolongs the life of important historic statuary and valuable pieces of modern outdoor art and reduces the risk of costly repairs. Our Winter Covers are durable and can be used time and time again.
Customers include National Trust properties such as Waddesdon Manor, and cultural institutions such as Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village, alongside private collections and historic properties across the UK, Europe and the United States.
How to order your Winter Cover
All our Winter Covers are custom-made to provide the best protection They also come in a range of colours.
Our Winter Covers team will advise you on how to take measurements of the statue, or we can arrange a site visit. You will receive guidance on how to install, remove, store and care for your Winter Covers.
Not sure which Winter Cover suits your climate? Our team can advise on the best option for your collection.
Our collection management and conservation services
For year-round protection of your outdoor statues, sculptures and decorative stonework, we strongly recommend regular inspections and maintenance by our conservators.
With our collection management expertise, you can reduce the risk of unexpected costly damage and ensure your treasured masterpieces remain in excellent condition.
Order now for Winter
Cliveden Conservation Winter Covers FAQ
Are conservation Winter Covers for garden statues, outdoor sculptures and historic decorative stonework a good investment?
Winter Covers are not just about protection; they are a cost-effective solution to prevent expensive repairs. A small investment in a durable cover can save you significant sums that might otherwise be spent on restoration work.
Additionally, protective covers make a big difference in your overall garden statues’ care and maintenance routine. By minimising exposure to the elements, your statues require less frequent cleaning and repair, allowing you to focus on other aspects of landscape management. Not only do they prevent physical damage, but they also shield your statues from pollutants and debris that could mark their appearance.
Why are Winter Covers essential for outdoor statues, sculptures and decorative stonework?
Winter Covers provide a critical barrier against harsh and fluctuating weather conditions. Moisture and frost are notorious for causing significant damage. When water seeps into the porous surfaces of stonework and subsequently freezes, it expands, leading to cracks and structural damage. By using our three-layered Winter Cover you can effectively mitigate this risk.
Proper coverings also ensure that your statues remain in pristine condition throughout the winter. Long-term exposure to harsh weather without protection can lead to discolouration, erosion and other forms of deterioration. By investing in high-quality, custom-fitted conservation Winter Covers, you can enhance the longevity of your garden statues, sculptures and decorative stonework, preserving their beauty and value for future generations.
Do I need to cover cast concrete statues and decorative stonework?
Yes, Cliveden Conservation’s Three-layer Winter Cover will protect large concrete statues, sculptures and decorative stonework from damage caused by freezing and wet conditions.
Our Single-layer Winter Cover will protect cast concrete from damaged caused by excessive rainfall in warmer climates. Our team can advise on the most appropriate covers for your objects.
Do I need a bespoke Winter Cover for my garden statue or sculpture?
Custom-fitted covers are ideal for outdoor statues, sculptures, works of art, or decorative stonework with intricate shapes or architectural features to provide comprehensive coverage that standard off-the-shelf covers might miss. By taking careful measurements, we can design a Winter Cover that accommodates the specific needs of each object considering its size and shape.
How often should I check my outdoor statues and sculpture collection?
Strategic planning is essential for ensuring year-round protection of your outdoor statues, sculptures and decorative stonework. Regular (yearly) inspections and maintenance reduce the risk of unexpected costly damage and ensure your treasured masterpieces remain in excellent condition.
By investing in quality conservation Winter Covers and collaborating with experts like Cliveden Conservation, you can develop a long-term comprehensive preservation approach that addresses the unique needs of your collection and protects it for the future. Inspections naturally occur when removing covers, and when reinstating them at the start of the winter.
Should I clean outdoor statues and decorative stonework?
Conservation cleaning is an essential part of maintaining your outdoor statues. Seek advice from conservation experts about suitable cleaning materials and methods.
What are the common errors which cause damage to statues, sculptures and decorative stonework?
One of the most common mistakes is overlooking regular maintenance, which can lead to deterioration over time. Regular inspections and cleaning are essential for keeping your statues, sculptures and decorative stonework in good condition.
Statues near trees, bushes or hedges are especially prone to biological growth (green algae) and soiling from guano. Cutting back nearby growth where possible reduces acidic excretions and improves airflow. Root growth is also worth watching, as it can exert enormous pressure on stonework and undermine stability.
Another problem is using protective covers which are not made to measure as this can leave a sculpture inadequately protected. A bespoke Winter Cover is the best option.
Neglecting climate-specific needs can also compromise the integrity of your statues. It’s vital to choose Winter Covers and maintenance practices that align with the specific weather conditions in your area.
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