Choosing Outdoor Furniture

Choosing outdoor furniture can be a tricky endeavor. There’s a lot of options out there and prices vary greatly.

To make the best decision, consider all your needs. For example, if you love entertaining, invest in a large dining table setup. Consider the weather in your area as well; hot, dry conditions can cause wood to splinter and salty air can dull and discolor metals.

Material

The material that furniture is made from is a big factor in how durable it will be. Depending on your climate and how often you use your outdoor furniture, you should select a material that is resistant to weather elements like sun, wind, rain and snow.

The materials that frame your furniture also have a major impact on how long it will last and how comfortable it will be. Steel is a common option for furniture frames as it can be shaped into intricate designs and has good strength and durability. However, it rusts easily so you should look for galvanized or stainless steel if you decide to go with this option.

Wood is another common choice for furniture as it can withstand the elements and provide an attractive aesthetic. If you choose to go with wood, make sure that it is sourced from sustainable forests so that you are not contributing to deforestation. Natural wood will eventually fade to a silvery grey color over time but you can maintain its appearance with regular maintenance or staining.

Plastics are also popular for making furniture because they are lightweight and affordable. However, there are several different types of plastics, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. For example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is inexpensive and flimsy but it has poor heat endurance and will melt in extreme temperatures. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a better choice for outdoor furniture as it is more durable and can withstand all kinds of weather conditions.

Metal is another durable material for furniture frames and is usually combined with other furniture materials to add comfort. However, metal can become hot in the sun and some metals expand or contract when exposed to extreme temperatures, which makes them more susceptible to break downs.

Style

Patios, decks and other outdoor spaces beckon us to soak up the summer sun. To make the most of these outdoor rooms, we need furniture that reflects our lifestyles and blends with our home’s architectural style and landscaping.

The most basic consideration is the overall style of the furniture. From rustic and farmhouse styles to minimalist and modern, there are plenty of choices available. The type of weave used on the seating is another important factor. Generally speaking, flatweave rattan is lighter and more affordable than high-end wicker pieces.

It is also important to consider the amount of seating needed and how it will be arranged in the space. Some seating options are modular and can be adapted to fit changing needs. For example, a chaise lounge can be transformed into a loveseat or even a sofa. Similarly, many tables can be paired with chairs to create a seating area for two or three.

The weather conditions in your region will also impact what kind of seating you need. Too much sun can fade fabrics, splinter wood and promote rot; too much moisture can weaken metal. A knowledgeable furniture salesperson will be able to help you select the right style and materials for your climate.

When buying online, request fabric samples and wood/metal swatches. This will give you a true feel for the color and quality. Also remember that product photos are typically viewed on backlit screens, which can make colors appear brighter than they actually are. Requesting a physical sample can prevent disappointment when the furniture arrives and may even save you money in the long run. If you want to be extra sure, you can always purchase a set and return it later.

Comfort

If you’re using your outdoor furniture for relaxation, comfort is key. The best seating will have a plush cushion, sturdy yet stylish frame, and support that prevents you from getting stiff after long periods of sitting.

In addition, look for a fabric that will hold up to the elements. Many brands use Sunbrella fabric, which is water-, fade- and stain-resistant. However, other performance fabrics like polyester will also work just fine.

The scale of your outdoor furniture is another important factor to consider. Large pieces such as sectional sofas and tables can quickly dominate a space and overpower other décor. However, smaller pieces such as a bistro table and chairs can work just fine in a smaller space.

Finally, you should consider the functionality of your new furniture. If you’re planning to use your patio for remote working, choose a versatile piece that can accommodate your laptop and other office necessities. There are many ergonomically-designed outdoor lounges that will give you the support and comfort you need to work from home or on the go.

Choosing comfortable and durable outdoor furniture is easier than ever with the help of the right designers. Whether you’re looking for modern, sleek design or dreamy Bohemian comfort, you’ll find the perfect furniture to suit your unique style. For example, if you want to create a sleek and sophisticated space, you can turn to StyleNations for a generous selection of customizable outdoor sofas that are sure to suit your aesthetic. Their Urba outdoor sofa, for example, features a hard acacia frame that’s well-suited to withstand light rainfalls and polyester-wrapped seat cushions that are designed specifically for the outdoors.

Durability

When it comes to durability, the way a material responds to its environment is crucial. For instance, if you live in an area with high humidity, your outdoor furniture should be water resistant or treated to resist moisture. Moisture can cause mold, mildew and other unsightly stains as well as affect the comfort of your guests.

In addition, if your outdoor space is exposed to sunlight, you may need your furniture to be able to withstand UV rays. Constant exposure to the sun can cause many materials, such as wood, to deteriorate over time. This deterioration may result in the development of an aesthetically pleasing patina or may simply mean that your furniture will lose its vibrancy over time.

You should also consider how much your furniture will be used in order to determine how durable it needs to be. For example, will you be using it for relaxing evenings with family and friends or will it be a place for hosting parties and events? Choosing more durable furniture that can withstand the wear and tear of heavy use is often a wise investment.

Metal is typically the most durable material for outdoor furniture. It is strong and flexible enough that manufacturers can create chairs and tables with intricate designs. It is also lightweight and resistant to rust when treated with a polyester powder coating. Additionally, various production techniques allow manufacturers to produce metal furniture without the need for bolts and screws, which can break under pressure. However, some metals are hot in the sun and can become uncomfortable to sit on for long periods of time. In addition, some metals are susceptible to rust if exposed to salt in the air.

Maintenance

It’s no secret that outdoor furniture must be able to stand up to the elements. Unlike furniture in a home’s interior, it must be able to endure rain, sun and snow, extreme heat and cold and high winds. It must also withstand the corrosive effects of salt air and the damage caused by insects, mold, mildew and fungus.

These factors are all affected by the material from which your patio furniture is constructed. You can find a wide range of outdoor furniture, from woods like eucalyptus and teak to metals such as wrought iron or aluminum and from synthetic resins to wicker. Each has pros and cons for particular climates and outdoor environments.

Some materials need minimal care and require a simple soap-and-water wash, while others may need specialized products or require regular staining. Think about how much time you have available for maintenance and what your lifestyle is like, as these will impact the type of patio furniture that’s right for you.

Another factor that influences the maintenance of outdoor furniture is whether it can be easily moved from one spot to another. If you need to change the layout of your patio or deck, for example, consider a modular design that allows pieces to be taken apart or assembled into different configurations. Similarly, look for versatile outdoor chairs and sofas that can be used as benches or converted into a dining table. This flexibility is not only practical, but can improve the functionality of your space. In addition, keep in mind that if you are shopping online for your patio furniture, it is best to request fabric, wood and metal samples so you can get a feel for the weight and texture of each piece.