How to Design Your Dream Patio: A Complete Handbook on Selecting and Arranging Outdoor Furniture for Style and Comfort

 The Outdoor Furniture you choose for your home makes a significant impact on the look of your patio or backyard. It also needs to withstand the elements. That means it should be sturdy enough to resist rust and strong enough not to tip over in a breeze (even those beautiful lightweight deck chairs are prone to that). And since it will likely need to be cleaned frequently, you’ll want something that can easily be wiped down with a cloth.

Different kinds

There are many different kinds of outdoor furniture, but the frame material is often the most important factor to consider. Woods like teak are naturally resistant to water, rot and insects; however, they can be expensive, and require regular maintenance in the form of oiling or painting. Softwoods like pine and cedar are less durable, and must be treated with special chemicals to protect against the elements. Synthetic materials like plastic and wicker are often the most budget-friendly, and are extremely weather-resistant.

Synthetics

Some synthetics, like rattan, are incredibly lightweight, and can even be folded flat for storage between uses. The problem is that they can often feel flimsy, and they can be susceptible to cracking and fading over time. Unless they’re specifically designed for outdoor use, it’s best to steer clear of these types of materials.

Aluminum

Metals like aluminum, steel and iron are often very sturdy, but can be brittle over time, and should be protected with a protective coating to prevent rusting. They’re generally very heavy, too, and can be difficult to move around the yard. In addition, they can become hot or cold to the touch in extreme conditions, and may be uncomfortable to sit on.

Stores

Department stores may not be the first place you think of when shopping for Outdoor Furniture , but Macy’s has a huge selection in a variety of styles. They also offer financing options, and can tell you if an item is available to see in person at a local showroom. They have a great return policy, too--you can return items within 30 days for a small shipping fee.