A piece of outdoor furniture is a fantastic addition to your home. Whether placed in the patio, backyard, or garden, it offers a place for relaxation, family time, entertaining guests, and hosting gatherings. Finding furniture to use outside the house is relatively similar to buying pieces that are used inside the home, although there are a few differences due to element exposure. Here are things to consider when picking the best outdoor furniture.
- Size. Decide on the specific area where you will place the furniture and measure it. This will ensure that the pieces that you will get will be the right size and that they will fit perfectly in your space. Getting something that is bigger than your space will be problematic while buying a smaller option will not maximise the use of your area.
- Weather. Find furniture that will work best for the weather in your city. If you live in a sunny area, get pieces that will not easily break due to the heat of the sun, or if you live in a wet place, items that do not easily corrode are ideal. Choose weather-resistant outdoor furniture if you live in areas with rapidly changing temperature.
- Material. There are different materials to choose from. Equip yourself with knowledge on their advantages and disadvantages to make a smart decision. Wood and rattan are two of the most popular choices. They give that natural feel, and they are also from renewable sources. While they are on the more affordable end, the drawback is that they need treatment at least every other year to keep them protected from the elements, including sun and rain.
Wrought iron and steel are the sturdiest of these materials. With proper maintenance, they will last for several years. However, steel and iron furniture pieces are heavy, and they also need to be painted regularly to prevent them from rusting. PVC, plastic, and aluminium share the same characteristics of being lightweight, easily maintained, and rust resistant. They are also inexpensive, but they are not that sturdy. Without proper care, they could easily break and may require replacement.
- Style. Outdoor furniture comes in various forms. Find pieces that will work with the overall look that you want for your house. Furniture designs range from simple to more intricate ones. Whether you prefer a clean and simple feel or a bold and sophisticated look, it will be easy to find what you need as long as you know what you are looking for.
- Budget. Set a specific budget so it will be easier to narrow your search. Stick with items in your price range to avoid spending more than what you can afford. With proper research, it is not impossible to find durable and gorgeous pieces that meet your style and fall within your budget.
- Functionality. Some items offer multiple functions such as a chair and storage in one. These pieces are convenient and provide a lot of use.
Secure your outdoor furniture pieces in storage during harsh weather to keep them looking fine and to extend their lives.