An inviting patio can become the center of gatherings; but purchasing cheap patio furniture may become obsolete in just a few short years.
Opt instead for a quality set that’s comfortable, affordable and durable – materials such as aluminum, recycled plastic or teakwood may help resist corrosion, mildew growth and saltwater environments.
Set a Budget
Patio furniture should transform your outdoor space into an inviting retreat, where you can unwind with a book and cold beverage. An aesthetic space doesn’t need to break the bank; just be sure not to compromise quality, durability and comfort for price.
Setting and sticking to a budget when purchasing patio furniture is essential. Saving money now by buying cheaper pieces could end up costing more down the line due to rapid wear-and-tear.
Consider also what materials your furniture is constructed from. For furniture that looks like wood, try selecting materials with durable grains with water-repellant properties, such as eucalyptus or teak. If the environment is of paramount concern to you, recycled plastic furnishings resist rust, mildew and saltwater build-up while being easy to maintain, making this choice great if you have young children or pets in the household. Additionally, choosing eco-friendly outdoor furniture may save money as they won’t need replacing as frequently!
Look for Form Follows Function
Once you understand how you intend to utilize your patio, find furniture that meets those purposes. For instance, if you plan on entertaining large groups on your patio, an outdoor dining table and chairs might be necessary; otherwise if you prefer more intimate reading nooks instead, choose smaller but more comfortable seating arrangements instead.
When considering different styles of patio furniture, remember that form follows function. Although many outdoor pieces are made from wood, aluminum or wrought iron, you may come across pieces crafted through a process known as rotomolded plastic that appear handcrafted but actually were manufactured through molds created using this process. Rotomolded plastic furniture may prove cost-effective as it resists mildew growth as well as mildew infestation and saltwater corrosion – providing durable protection at an economical price point.
Consider also how easily you’ll maintain the furniture you select. While wrought iron, aluminum and wood furniture is typically easy to keep clean and maintain, long exposure to elements could result in rust. When selecting metal pieces make sure they have features such as powder coatings, sanded surfaces or corrosion-proof hardware for best results.
Comfort Is Key
Patios should provide a peaceful sanctuary where visitors can unwind in comfort. To accomplish this, patio furniture must be accommodating: choose pieces with thick cushions and ergonomic designs as well as adjustable features to maximize comfort. It’s wise to try out potential purchases in person before making your decision so you can judge if it meets your personal comfort standards.
Durability and maintenance requirements should also be taken into consideration when selecting patio furniture. Look for materials that can withstand the elements such as aluminum, wrought iron and teak that can be easily maintained and finished to protect them against harsh weather conditions, making these pieces popular choices for patio use. Alternatively, for a more natural aesthetic consider furniture made of wicker or wood which requires more care over time but add timeless charm to any outdoor living space.
Ergonomic patio furniture is designed to enhance the seating experience by providing extra cushioning and support, as well as help prevent any associated aches or pains from long periods of sitting. There are various styles and materials of ergonomic outdoor furniture, from reclining chairs to benches with lumbar support available.
Once you’ve carefully considered size, space and cost factors when choosing patio furniture, its time to consider style. When searching for patio pieces that match the architectural style of your home and reflect your personal flair it may also help if you play around with color and pattern combinations to find what will look best in your patio space.
Aluminum or Wrought-Iron?
Wrought iron patio furniture has long been popular, but many customers are opting for aluminum as an increasingly flexible material for outdoor furnishings. Buyers prefer these lightweight yet resilient materials over wood, wicker and rattan pieces due to easier cleaning, water resistance and lower weight issues compared to these more traditional forms. In fact, certain pieces can even be designed to mimic these more classic forms for greater design options in their backyards, gardens and decks.
Aluminum is naturally resistant to rust, making it an excellent material choice for outdoor seating and dining sets. As aluminum is much lighter than its iron counterparts, homeowners can quickly move chairs and tables around as needed for sun/shade needs or summer night gatherings around a fire pit.
Aluminum’s malleability also allows it to be formed into intricate designs while remaining sturdy; this manufacturing process gives rise to pieces like Tropitone’s whimsical seaside-inspired lines and Telescope’s smooth curves for its Butterfly lounge chairs.
Aluminum furniture stands out as being more comfortable for guests sitting down to relax under the sun than its counterpart, wrought iron, as it doesn’t heat up as rapidly, helping prevent them from burning their skin when sitting down to rest in the heat. Furthermore, its natural ability to dissipate heat makes aluminum suitable for use even in colder climates without needing additional blankets or protection coverings on top of its furniture pieces.
Steel reacts to temperature variations by heating or cooling to the touch depending on how hot or cool it is outside, potentially causing discomfort for people sitting on chairs or sofas, necessitating additional blankets or covers to remain cozy and relaxed while sitting.
Wood?
Wood furniture adds an organic vibe to a patio space and can be extremely long-lasting with proper maintenance. Deciding if wood is the right option depends on factors like budget constraints, desired ownership term and climate considerations.
Though all wood will eventually fade over time, some varieties are more resilient to the elements than others. Teak has natural oils that provide protection from rain, sun and insects; Ipe is a dense tropical hardwood which naturally resists rot, warping, splinters and insect damage as well as resists fading with exposure to light – in time it develops an attractive silver-gray patina and looks beautiful!
But it is important to keep in mind that while Ipe and Teak are two of the more durable woods for patio furniture, they still can become damaged if improperly maintained. Therefore, it is vital to purchase quality wooden patio furniture treated with an outdoor sealant or stain that will withstand weather elements over time.
Plastic, polywood and wicker patio furniture can be an economical way to save money without the maintenance required of traditional wood furniture. But it is essential to remember that even lower-cost pieces may become damaged if improper care is taken when caring for it or its design is unthought-of; always invest in high quality pieces with great reviews that will last – rather than buying something flimsy that needs replacing in just a few years!