When choosing outdoor furniture, it’s important to choose materials that will stand up to the elements. This includes exposure to sunlight, rain and roughhousing from kids or pets.
There are many durable, aesthetically pleasing options for outdoor furniture. Learn about the different materials that make up luxury outdoor pieces and how they can enhance your backyard or patio.
Materials
Choosing the right material for outdoor furniture can make all the difference when it comes to comfort and durability. The best materials are those that blend in with the overall design of your yard and complement your family’s lifestyle. You’ll also want to consider your local weather conditions when making a purchase.
Several materials are available for outdoor seating, tables and stools, but wood and resin wicker tend to be the most popular choices because of their comfort, style and durability. These types of furniture are often available in a variety of wood species, colors and graining patterns to suit the aesthetics of your space.
While there are many different kinds of wood, the two most commonly used are teak and eucalyptus. These tropical hardwoods are very strong and don’t warp, crack or become brittle like other woods. They can be oiled or stained about once a year to help them maintain their original color and protect them from weather damage.
Aside from the obvious durability benefits, wood is also a natural choice because it ages well in the sun and can add to the beauty of your home. Wood is also naturally resistant to rot, decay and insects, so you’ll be able to enjoy your new patio furniture for years to come!
Metal is another common material for garden furnishings. Because of its strength, it can create thinner frames that can be shaped into more complex designs. Additionally, it’s an eco-friendly option because it’s made from recycled materials, and many manufacturers focus on “green” practices when handcrafting their products.
Plastic is another widely used material for outdoor furniture. Thermoplastic polymer resins like polyethylene are inexpensive and environmentally friendly. They are also resistant to all weather concerns, including water, mold and mildew.
Synthetic wicker is another popular material for patio furniture. While some wicker is made from low-quality PVC, others are manufactured using High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). This is a higher-grade material that doesn’t break down or unravel easily.
Before you buy any furniture, take a close look at the quality of the materials. Check to see if the manufacturer used high-quality HDPE or other synthetic resins. It’s worth it to pay a little extra for high-quality pieces that won’t unravel or crack. You’ll be able to use your new pieces for years to come and save money in the process!
Style
Choosing the right outdoor furniture is key to creating an inviting, relaxing space for guests and family. The furniture you choose should fit your lifestyle, as well as the look of your backyard.
For example, if you plan to spend lots of time lounging and entertaining guests in the back yard, opt for larger seating options. These pieces are more visually appealing and can serve as a focal point in your setup, like they do indoors.
If you’re looking for a classic aesthetic that is sure to make your patio feel like a vacation, opt for Balinese or rustic-style outdoor furniture. These pieces are often large and made from hardwoods such as eucalyptus, teak, or mahogany. They’ll add a timeless quality to your space and are easy to mix and match with other styles.
Another popular choice is rattan, which is made from natural plant fibers. This material has a long history in making tropical-inspired furnishings and is now resurging in popularity.
Rattan can be woven or solid, so it’s important to shop for quality to ensure that your furniture is built to last. You’ll also want to choose a material that is weather resistant.
All-weather wicker is a great choice for outdoor wicker chairs because it can withstand the sun and heat, and won’t fade in hot or cold weather. It is often woven over a rustproof aluminum frame for enduring heirloom quality and durability.
Woven wicker, also known as cane, is a common material for outdoor lounge furniture and can be found in a variety of styles. Many of these wicker furniture sets come with coordinating pillows or cushions in matching colors to help pull your seating together.
Depending on the style of your home, you may prefer a more traditional or modern design. You may want to go with a set of chairs and a coffee table, or you might prefer a more elaborate dining setup.
If you’re planning to spend a lot of time entertaining and hosting events, go for larger-scale seating such as sofas or loveseats. These pieces will be less expensive than individual chairs, but will still provide ample space for friends and family to sit comfortably.
Comfort
One of the most important factors in choosing outdoor furniture is comfort. You’ll want to select a piece that is comfortable enough for you and your family to relax in. The best choice is a piece that has ample padding, such as a chaise lounge or ottoman.
The most comfortable pieces will also be made from materials that are resistant to stains, mildew and mold. For example, the best patio coffee tables are made from glass or porcelain rather than plastic, while a high-quality aluminum table is built to stand up to the wear and tear of heavy use.
Choosing the most comfortable outdoor furniture will require a little research on your part, and you should consider the size of your space. A small porch might not offer much space for large pieces, but a larger backyard with a spacious patio will allow you to spread out and enjoy the outdoors in style. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to choose from, including wicker and teak, so finding the best combination for your space is no sweat.
The best time to buy is during the off-season, when retailers are slashing prices to clear their inventory. The most efficient way to shop for your new outdoor furniture is to look for deals on a single item, rather than buying a full set. This will save you from having to purchase an entire outdoor living room suite when you only need a sofa, loveseat and two chairs. There are also plenty of online discount stores and sales events to check out, like the recent Home Depot summer clearance sale.
Maintenance
Whether you use your outdoor furniture for a backyard BBQ or a restaurant patio, it’s crucial to take proper care of it to extend its lifespan. Besides keeping your outdoor furniture in great condition, it’s also important to protect it from harmful environmental factors such as rain and sun.
Depending on what material your furniture is made of, there are different maintenance techniques you can follow to ensure that it stays in top shape. For example, wood tables and chairs typically require a light coat of varnish or stain to keep them from fading or losing their color.
Wicker and rattan, however, are natural materials that need a little more attention to prevent them from rotting or degrading in the elements. These pieces should be wiped down with a mild soapy solution and dried off as soon as possible, as moisture can cause them to warp or crack over time.
Inspect your patio or lawn furniture at least twice a year to check for wear-and-tear issues, such as stains on cushions, rust, loose screws and squeaky hinges. If you find any of these problems, it’s probably time to replace them with newer and more durable pieces.
If your furniture is made of wood, it may need to be treated with a water-resistant preservative to minimize fading from the sun and protect it against fungus growth. In addition, it’s a good idea to clean it regularly (at least once or twice a year) to remove dirt and debris.
Metal furniture, on the other hand, can last for years without needing any special treatment. It’s a good idea to wipe down cast iron and other metal pieces with a mixture of soapy water and a sponge or cloth, ensuring that the surface is clean and dry before storing it for winter.
While metal is an extremely durable material, it can also rust easily in salty environments. Inspect for rust and repair it before it’s too late, using a rust-resistant paint or primer to make your furniture look like new again.