As the weather begins to warm, it’s time to bring out the patio furniture, take out the cushions from storage, and fire up the grill for some burgers. However, after last season’s furniture arrives, it no longer seems to be in guest-ready shape, causing would-be entertainers to look for new outdoor seating options. They immediately find that there are several options! So do first-time outdoor furniture consumers, who might be overwhelmed by the variety of materials, patterns, and alternatives. Keep reading for tips on navigating the sea of alternatives if you’re seeking new seating and dining options for your outdoor living space.
The Teak Place offers comfort and utility to your deck or patio, extending your living room outside. For example, a weather-resistant table and chairs expand your dining room outside, while calming rockers or Adirondack chairs create a living room with a blue-sky ceiling. The first step in selecting the right outdoor furniture is to assess how you want to utilize your outside area. Do you want to dine on your patio or relax by the fire? Will you cater to large audiences or smaller, more intimate gatherings? When it comes to purchasing, the answers to these questions will guide you in the right direction.
Material Selection
When shopping for furniture, choose easy-care materials and pieces that suit the design and feel of your landscape and home. There are various options.
- Natural wood is durable and appealing, but it will require regular maintenance and preservative treatments to keep it from deteriorating. Choose weather-resistant woods such as redwood, teak, cedar, and cypress for low maintenance.
- Rattan and wicker. Natural materials like rattan and wicker add a casual, relaxed feel to your deck, but they will need to be weatherproofed every few years. The resin coating on synthetic rattan and wicker is significantly more durable.
- Made of wrought iron and steel. Although both materials are extremely robust, they will require cushions for comfort. They’re great for the outdoors, but they must be coated or treated with a weatherproof finish regularly to prevent rust.
- PVC, aluminum, and plastic. These materials are rustproof, lightweight, inexpensive, and easily cleaned with soap and water. Because of their small weight, they may need to be secured in high winds and storms.
These materials will keep your furniture appearing brand new for many years to come. However, regardless matter how waterproof the furniture is, you should maintain it all winter to extend its life. Consider how much storage space you have before making a purchase. Additionally, sit in the chairs and raise and lower the umbrella a few times before purchasing. Make sure you appreciate the convenience and utility.
Ensured High Quality
When shopping, don’t always assume that the lowest price is the best indicator of quality. So, how can you determine whether a piece of furniture is of great quality?
- Finish consistency. Wood should be polished evenly and without flaws, even in hidden areas such as the underside of tables. Paint-coated metals should have a consistent finish. Wicker should not be unraveled or haphazardly wrapped around the frame.
- Joints that are snug and well-fitting. Metal welds must be somewhat smooth. Examine the surface for exposed, unpainted metal or, worse, rust streaks.
- Make sure the chairs don’t wobble or flex too much (some flexibility is OK, especially on tubular metal chairs designed to be springy). Repeat the process when you’ve finished building the table.
- The retailer’s return and exchange policy. Just in case your components are defective or incomplete when they arrive or are picked up.