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Topic: Outdoor Furniture



Date Posted: Monday, November 25, 2013
Posted by: Judy Walker (Master Admin)


Tips for Buying Outdoor Furniture


When buying outdoor furniture, look for pieces that are highly durable and will last for several years. Your outdoor living space will not be complete without the appropriate furnishings. In fact, the quality of your outdoor furniture plays a significant role in making the space comfortable. Buying good quality outdoor furniture is quite challenging. Here are a few points to keep in mind.

Outdoor furniture manufacturers usually produce pieces that can stand up to natural elements. That said, homeowners should still understand the features that make furniture durable.

Choose weather resistant outdoor furniture

When buying outdoor furniture choose pieces that are weather resistant. Outdoor furniture is usually made of metal, plastic or wood. While wooden furniture looks classy, it can deteriorate from constant exposure to moisture and sun. Therefore, while buying wooden furniture opt for pieces made of treated wood or varieties that are naturally weather resistant.

Exposure to moisture can lead to the corrosion of metals. While moisture does not affect plastic furniture, it may lose its color due to constant exposure to sun rays. You should, therefore, keep your plastic furniture in the shade when it is not in use or buy covers for optimum protection.

Select the right materials

Generally speaking, the durability of your outdoor furniture depends upon the materials it is made of.

Furniture made of aluminum is low-weight, but it is highly durable. While iron furniture can be heavy, it is extraordinarily durable, too. Note that iron furniture needs to be treated to prevent corrosion.

Pine is a soft wood. You can't expect furniture made of pine to last long; however, it is less expensive. Furniture made of teak and mahogany is very stable and maintains strength over a long period. Teak, in particular, shows great resistance to swelling, shrinking, warping and rotting. Rattan is another ideal choice for outdoor furniture. Plastic is not as durable or strong as other materials, but it is quite cheap.

Buy well-constructed pieces

While buying outdoor furniture, pay attention to how pieces are constructed. Screws should be of brass or stainless steel.  Avoid buying pieces held together by glue because they tend to come apart over time.

Buy weatherproof pillows and cushions

Constant exposure to moisture makes your pillows and cushions susceptible to mildew. Exposure to sunlight may also cause discoloration. While buying pillows and cushions, opt for synthetic fabrics like acrylic. They prevent the growth of mildew. 

How to maintain your outdoor furniture?

Proper maintenance will increase the durability of your outdoor furniture. By applying oils, stains and sealers to your wooden furniture you can make them less susceptible to rotting. Some stains and oils may also block ultraviolet rays.

Rattan furniture should be kept in the shade. Wipe it with a damp cloth, but avoid chemical cleaners.

Care for metal outdoor furniture

Outdoor furniture made of steel is usually low maintenance. You just need to wipe it with a damp cloth. While aluminum is rust-proof, iron furniture needs to be treated with a good anti-rust solution.

Outdoor furniture covers

In the Fall and Winter, it is advisable to protect your Outdoor furniture with fitted covers for the ultimate protection from weather and moisture. At the very least, cover all your outdoor furniture with tarps. Another good solution is to store your outdoor furniture in your garage or shed until next Spring.



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