If you are considering buying outdoor furniture, there are a few things that you should know first. The most important of these are weather, durability, and multipurpose use.
Weather is the most crucial factor
Weather is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing outdoor furniture. Luckily, there are many options that can withstand even the worst weather conditions. But it’s not always easy to pick the right furniture, so here are some tips to keep in mind.
The material that you use is a big factor. You can choose from steel, aluminum, wicker, and synthetic resin. Each of these materials has its own pros and cons. Choosing the right material can ensure that your outdoor space remains attractive for years to come.
In addition to selecting the right material, you’ll also need to decide on the right scale for your outdoor area. If you live in a relatively small space, you may want to opt for smaller pieces of furniture. On the other hand, a larger patio may require larger furnishings.
Depending on your location, you may need to consider other factors, such as cost and maintenance. For example, you might need to add mosquito netting if you live in a high-risk bug area.
Outdoor furniture can make your outdoor space both comfortable and entertaining. However, it’s essential that you choose the right material to withstand the elements.
Regardless of the material that you select, you’ll need to give it a good cleaning and maintenance regimen. Some of the more specialized materials will need special attention. Natural woods are some of the most beautiful, but they require extra care.
Another option is to get a cover to protect your furniture. Store-bought covers tend to become brittle after a few seasons. Alternatively, wrapping your furniture is a cheaper, more efficient way to protect your investment.
There are other factors to keep in mind when buying furniture, such as the design of your home or property. If your area has a windy climate, you’ll need to take special precautions when placing your furniture. Similarly, your outdoor furniture may need to be stored indoors during storms.
While the best quality furniture won’t ensure your outdoor space will survive a couple of bad winters, it will help you to spend more time outdoors. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, playing a game of tennis, or grilling out, it’s never a bad idea to have a few things to keep you and your guests comfortable.
Multipurpose furniture
Multipurpose outdoor furniture is a recent fad among aficionados of all things outdoor. These multifunction outdoor pieces are designed to save space and provide comfort. They are also highly functional. For example, there are loungers and stools with storage. There are multipurpose yard lamps as well.
Several manufacturers are competing in this space. This includes Agio International Company, Brown Jordan, Florida Patio Furniture Inc., Keter Group, and others. One of the most important features of these products is their versatility. While one product might be a dining table, another might be a seating bench or a parasol base.
The market has been split into segments by size, with North America accounting for the largest chunk. Some companies in this segment include Ashley Home Stores, Ltd., Barbeques Galore, Century Furniture LLC, and other notables. Besides, the market is fueled by the proliferation of high-end outdoor living spaces. Moreover, the rising middle class in North America is driving demand for multifunctional outdoor furnishings.
Multipurpose outdoor furniture is made from lightweight materials, making it easy to carry. Despite this, they are also resistant to UV rays and rain. In addition, their longevity makes them a long-term investment. Other notable features include the ability to transform from one function to another.
For instance, you can turn your rattan coffee table into a bar stool or even a seat. You can even hang a pot from a tree branch and enjoy the fruits of your labour. Similarly, a fire pit is not only a functional piece of furniture, it also serves as a barbecue when the mood strikes.
Among the most popular categories are seating sets and tables. Several brands are producing these products, ranging from small tabletop models to large patio sets. To make matters more fun, some are designed to stack and roll. Among the most interesting ones are the Devoko line of patio furniture. Moreover, they come in an assortment of styles and colors.
It’s not surprising, then, that several companies have rushed into the market. Market players are continually seeking new ways to gain market share. However, they have to be careful in choosing the right ones.
Materials that won’t fade in the sun
When choosing outdoor furniture, you want to make sure that the material is strong and durable enough to withstand the elements. The materials that you choose should also have the right UV protection to keep the color from fading.
Outdoor furniture made of synthetics or natural fibers can fade over time. These types of materials are inexpensive and easy to clean. They can also be used to create a unique and stylish look. However, there are certain drawbacks to each type.
Fabrics that are woven with acrylic fibers are strong and resistant to mildew and weather. Additionally, they are also stain-resistant and comfortable. This makes them an ideal choice for outdoor seating.
Polyester is another popular option for outdoor upholstery. It is more durable than silk and will hold up well against the sun. However, it will show fading faster than other fabrics.
Recycled plastics are a great choice for outdoor furniture. This type of material can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
Aluminum is also a popular choice. Although it is lightweight, it can be prone to scratches and rust. For extra protection, consider powder coating it.
If you plan to use your furniture near saltwater, it’s best to choose an aluminum material that’s powder coated. Powder coating also helps increase resistance to fading.
PP, which is an abbreviation for polypropylene, is another popular option for outdoor furniture. Although it’s durable, it can degrade quicker than some grades of polyethylene. PP is often used in conjunction with other plastics to improve durability.
PP is also a good choice for furniture that is left out in the sun for prolonged periods of time. PVC is less durable, and it can break under windy conditions. It can also get hot to the touch.
If you need additional color or protection, you can purchase polyester powder coating for your aluminum furniture. Also, you can use a commercial spray-on fabric protector to protect the upholstery.
Synthetics are a popular choice for outdoor furniture, because they can be colored to match your decor. There are many different designs and styles to choose from.
Durability
If you want to buy outdoor furniture, you’ll need to choose materials that are durable. These can last for years and save you money.
You can get metal, wood, and synthetic materials. Generally, metal is one of the strongest materials. However, it can be susceptible to rust and corrosion. It also needs to be protected from moisture.
Wood is natural, but it can rot and decay over time. To protect your outdoor furniture from rotting, you may need to treat it every few years. Also, wood can be affected by insect burrowing.
Synthetic materials are lightweight and easy to care for. Plastic and resin furniture is made from recycled materials. They are resistant to mold and mildew.
Metal is sturdy and can be worked into various shapes. Plain steel can rust easily, so you should seal it with a protective finish.
Aluminum is a strong and lightweight material. But it can crack or break if it’s exposed to extreme temperatures. You can powder-coat aluminum to keep it rust-proof.
Polypropylene is a highly durable and heat-resistant plastic. It can be used in any decor style and is available in a variety of colors. Polycarbonate is a tough material, but it is prone to scratches.
Man-made synthetic materials are becoming more common in outdoor furniture. These include polyvinyl chloride, nylon, and polyethylene.
These materials can be molded into shapes and textures that you can’t find in nature. They are easy to clean and are inexpensive. Many people are choosing these materials for their outdoor furniture.
Polyurethane (PU) is a good choice for outdoor furniture. The PU drying process uses liquid chemicals. In addition, it’s waterproof. This type of material is more resistant to weather than metal and hardwoods.
Aluminum is relatively cheap and lightweight. It’s also flexible. Although it can be rust-resistant, it doesn’t work well in windy areas.
Wood can be stained or sealed to add to its durability. Some species of wood rot when they get too cold. Teak is a popular outdoor wood, but it can be warpy.
Newer outdoor woods are designed to be resistant to rot and other damage. Examples include composite wood-plastic wood, carbonized wood, and anti-corrosion wood.