Patio Furniture Guide
Never before have so many manufacturers acknowledged the outdoors, specifically patios and porches, as a part of our living areas. As a result, we now have an enormous selection of chaise lounges, table and chair sets and lounge furniture. Just in time for the warm weather, here are some buying tips and ideas that will have you planning your next outdoor bar b que in time for the weekend.
Chaises invite guests to get comfortable and enjoy the sun and are available in materials such as wood, wicker, aluminum and metal. Many come with coasters for easy moving.
Wicker – Constructed of only the sturdiest materials, these are often what many people choose, especially when placing furniture around their pool areas. Double chaises easily seat two and nearly all can be reclined. For your double chaise, you can select either two full length cushions or one that will cover the seating and back areas in its entirety. Wicker is always weather-treated and holds up well in inclement weather. Consider adding accent pillows for an added touch of personality.
Aluminum – Lightweight and sturdy, aluminum is another great choice for outdoor furniture. It’s always weather proofed and coated for even more years of use. These are also ideal for lounging around your pool area.
Metal – Not usually one’s first choice, but these are an alternative for those who prefer the weight and sturdiness offered with metal. Attached with welds and PVC coated, these materials are rust resistant due to their powder coating finishes
Wood – Wood is an excellent choice since it weathers beautifully, especially with teak. Because wood chaises are treated to ensure no decay or insect invasions occur, these are popular choices. You’ll discover most wood seating and back areas are contoured for additional comfort since many prefer to not hide the beauty of natural wood with seat cushions.
You can virtually add another room onto your home simply by adding a table and chair set to your deck, patio or porch. With the ease in which cushions can be changed, you’ll feel as though you’re looking at new furniture with each cushion swap.
Wood patio sets offer the natural look and remains cool under the hot sun, making them an obvious choice for many. Your design options are endless and you can find them with slatted backs and even slatted tables. Many who love the look of the slatted table tops often add glass, thereby ensuring the look isn’t lost and neither are drinks that can tip over. Any collection you choose can easily be stained to a darker or lighter color to suit your tastes.
Metal patio sets are still popular choices, although they do get hot to the touch under the hot sun. They’re protected against rust with sealants and come assembled, which is another added bonus. There are many cushion sets that will act as a buffer between the metal and the sun and are always recommended.
Wicker patio furnishings offer a bit of elegance to your outside living area and offer a wide variety of styles, both in seating areas and tables. You’ll find many with curves and fluted legs. They’re easy to coordinate with cushion sets.
Accessories
You’ll most certainly want to add accessories, especially once you see how beautiful your patio furniture looks in your yard or patio area.
Accent tables – Just as in your living room or den, accent tables are perfect additions for adding plants and candles.
Umbrellas – A must have for outside dining, an umbrella keeps the sun shielded as you’re enjoying your meals. Be sure to select an umbrella that is large enough to cover not only the table area, but your guests as well.
Benches – These remain a favorite and are easily assembled around your favorite shade tree or along your patio. They’re great when you need additional seating or storage areas.
Cushion Sets – Be sure to carefully measure your furniture before purchasing cushion sets. You can ruin the look of your outside furniture if your cushions don’t complement the shape of your patio set.
