Outdoor Patio Furniture – A Guide to Choosing the Right Pieces

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Choosing the right patio furniture for your home is more than just about what looks good. You also have to consider the climate where you live and the environmental conditions your furnishings will have to endure.

For example, wood may not be suitable for areas with harsh winters and wet weather. Synthetic materials like resin wicker typically perform better in these situations.

Size

The size of outdoor furniture is crucial, especially when balancing space aesthetics with functionality. Oversized pieces can cramp small patios, while more miniature furniture might feel lost in large spaces.

Aside from size, the type of material used is also vital to remember when shopping for outdoor patio furniture. Some materials are naturally more resistant to moisture, rust, and bacteria growth than others. Teak, for example, is known to last longer than other wood types when left outside.

Another great choice is metal furniture, such as the cast aluminum furniture sold at Lazy Susan, which is UV-resistant and invulnerable to rusting. It also looks stylish, making it an excellent choice for those who want their patio furniture to blend in with their backyard garden or poolside.

Material

The level of comfort is another major factor to consider. Many manufacturers now incorporate ergonomic principles into the design of sun loungers, deck chairs, and sofas – considering factors like seating angles, leg inclination, and pressure on key body points. The result is a comfortable patio furniture set that lasts much longer than low-cost or flimsy options.

The durability of outdoor patio furniture depends on the material, the climate, and how it’s used. Some materials require minimal maintenance season after season, while others must be treated and refinished annually to prevent rusting or damage from weather changes. Look for items with a protective finish or fade-resistant performance fabric.

Comfort

A patio furniture set is a significant investment, and you want to ensure you’re happy with how it looks and feels. That means picking a design that complements the decor you already have.

The type of material also matters since it impacts how long the furnishings will last. For example, wrought iron is susceptible to rust and requires regular maintenance. Powder-coated metal is an alternative that resists corrosion and doesn’t require polishing.

Natural materials like wicker and wood are better for casual or rustic designs. Teak furniture, for instance, is a durable option that resists moisture and requires little maintenance.

Style

The style of patio furniture you select will impact the appearance of your outside area. Whether your home’s aesthetic leans more contemporary and modern or rustic and bohemian, you want to ensure the style of your patio furniture matches so everything looks cohesive.

For example, go for a wood-based table or benches if your home has a traditional vibe. These pieces are enduring and blend well with almost any design scheme.

Metal patio furniture also offers a sleek look that complements classic and contemporary setups. Bare metals rust easily, so invest in pieces coated with protective sealants to prevent damage from moisture. Remember that colors appear brighter on back-lit screens (desktop, tablet, or mobile devices) when shopping online. Ask retailers for fabric swatches and wood samples to get an accurate gauge of color and texture.

Maintenance

When people gather to eat, relax, or play on your patio, they’re bound to spill guacamole onto sectional sofa cushions, knock over a glass of wine at the dining table on your screened-in porch, and wipe down poolside sunloungers with suntan lotion. All that, plus dingy, stained, or weathered furniture, can quickly detract from your patio’s overall appearance.

A little preventative maintenance can make your patio furniture look new for years. Consider using a scrub brush designed for your specific type of furniture to remove built-up dirt, debris, and set-in stains. Always clean with mild soap and water before your furniture gets too dry. Rust can also discolor some metal furniture, so keeping a good supply of marine-grade rust-resistant cleaner on hand is essential.

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