No matter if it’s for hosting a game night or simply relaxing with friends, having the right patio furniture makes all the difference. From dining tables and chairs that bring your indoor living room outdoors to lounge seating that provides comfortable places for conversation – having furniture that fits makes all the difference when entertaining outdoors!
Selecting outdoor furniture can be daunting, but with some careful thought and consideration, you can create an inviting outdoor living area perfect for relaxing and hosting events.
Consider Your Space
Furniture can help turn an outdoor space into a living room for relaxing, dining and entertaining – but selecting the best pieces may prove challenging.
Durability should always be top of mind in areas with fluctuating weather patterns. Opt for materials that withstand sun exposure and rough use such as powder-coated steel or aluminum; wood is a timeless classic, while modern synthetic materials offer durable solutions with little maintenance needs.
Color is also an integral factor when designing any space, as light hues can make a space appear larger while warm tones create an inviting retreat. Mixing and matching furniture pieces can add flair, but make sure that their aesthetics complement each other aesthetically – for example pairing modern chairs with traditional sofas could cause the space to look chaotic and disjointed. Furthermore, be aware that not all pieces are created equal – be wary when making purchases and inspect them thoroughly for flaws like loose welds or broken casters before making purchases.
Determine Your Style
Setting out a clear vision for your outdoor space can help you narrow down the best furniture options. Whether you want to create an inviting seating area for socializing or simply relax and unwind, having a plan makes it simple to determine exactly which pieces and styles will meet your needs.
If you host game nights and wine tastings on your patio, bar-height tables might be necessary to accommodate multiple people comfortably. But if you prefer having intimate conversations instead, a cozy sectional with cushions and throw pillows might be more your speed.
Likewise, if you live in an especially hot or humid climate, selecting furniture with weather resistance may be essential to ensure long-term use. Otherwise, moisture could lead to mildew formation and warping in certain materials, while UV rays could fade their colors over time. Selecting the appropriate material ensures your furniture will stand the test of time!
Consider Your Budget
As tempting as it can be to dive right in when purchasing outdoor furniture, taking the time to carefully consider your space, style and durability is important before diving headfirst into any purchase decision. While Memorial Day sales, summer promotions and endless options on furniture-industry websites might tempt you, make sure that when making this purchase decision your purchasing decisions meet those criteria first before selecting something at random from them all.
Establish your budget before purchasing outdoor furniture. If on a tight budget, look for pieces with multiple uses such as multifunctional bar-height tables that allow casual dining or double as an accent piece in the living area.
As well, take into consideration what kind of weather elements exist in your area. If it’s hot with intense sunlight, for instance, purchasing durable materials like teak or metal that can withstand these extreme temperatures is highly recommended; when not in use you can cover or protect it with a tarp to protect it further from potential sunburns.
Take Care of Your Furniture
Outdoor furniture tends to be low maintenance, but even the toughest pieces require regular upkeep. Make sure all components, especially those prone to water or direct sunlight damage, are in good condition and inspect every component regularly for signs of flaws such as corrosion inhibitor treatment of metal furniture pieces or fabrics that resist mildew growth (for instance polyester or treated canvas fabrics are best).
Consider how your furniture will stand up in winter weather – be it plastic, metal, or wood – before purchasing it. If bringing it inside or storing it away is not an option, select materials that can withstand both low temperatures and freezing rain; often wood is the most durable material. Schleis advises using a wood-specific cleaner when cleaning and brushing with soft-bristled brush regularly to prevent scratching during this process; regular scrubbing with a cloth also helps reduce dirt buildup.
