If you have a patio, you definitely want some furniture for it. This guide lists 7 essential tips for buying patio furniture.
When summer comes around, there’s no better way to unwind than by spending time outside.
Studies show that getting outdoors more often can have a positive effect on your mental health. So, if you’re experiencing stress in any form and outdoor chill area can do much to improve your wellbeing.
It all starts with designing an outside space and buying patio furniture that enhances the experience for you.
Here’s how to buy patio furniture to suit your home.
1. Budget Considerations
It’s common to go over budget when it comes to home improvements. Don’t fall into that trap with patio furniture.
Whether you’re buying outdoor furniture online or at one of your neighborhood furniture stores, it’s important to shop around to ensure you get the best prices.
It’s a good investment to buy the best quality patio furniture you can afford.
Never compromise on quality in favor of price. You’ll only end up replacing your patio furniture much sooner than you expect to.
2. Mind the Weather
Since your patio furniture’s going to spend all its time outside in all kinds of weather, take this into consideration while shopping.
The type of weather in your area has a huge effect on how long your patio furniture will last. Very hot, sunny weather will cause wood to splinter and crack.
Intense sunshine will cause your upholstery or cushions to fade and strong winds will soon re-arrange lightweight patio furniture on your behalf.
While you’re shopping, ask the shop attendant about how much maintenance’s needed to keep your patio furniture in good shape.
Outdoor furniture made from metal, all-weather wicker, cedar, and teak will remain in pristine condition for years with very little upkeep.
3. Buying Patio Furniture to Suit Your Space
It’s tempting to buy a patio set based on an elegant floor display in the store or online. Before you go shopping measure your available area and plan a layout that works for you.
Make a list of what you need before you go shopping.
You should base this on the size of your family, whether you’ll be eating outdoors on your patio, and whether you need protection from the sun.
It’s easy for lavish in-store displays to sway you from your budget and a list helps keep you on track.
4. Storage Solutions
While it’s often not practical to store your patio furniture while it’s not in use, it’s important to shelter it from the winter elements.
In general patio furniture’s designed for sunny days, so it may become damaged in inclement or cold weather. Covers afford some protection, but it’s best to find somewhere you can store your patio furniture in the wintertime.
If you’re short on space, it’s a good idea to consider patio furniture that folds up for storage. Another option is patio furniture that you can disassemble for winter storage.
A garage or basement will do find for your patio furniture as long as it’s protected from damp as well as chewing insects and rodents.
5. Comfortable Cushions
Comfort is key when it comes to relaxing, right? No patio furniture set up’s complete without cushions. Don’t let this put you off buying a set you like though, it’s easy to get cushions made, or buy them separately.
It’s important to choose a good quality fabric that resists mold, mildew, and moisture. You don’t want something that will fade quickly in the sunshine either.
When buying cushions, the best way to test comfort levels is to sit on them. Be sure to choose a neutral pattern and color for your patio cushions, so that it doesn’t clash with your overall design.
To prolong the life of your cushions, it’s a good idea to store them inside when you’re not using them.
Another often-overlooked factor is the size of patio furniture like rockers, recliners, and chaise lounges. Trying them out for size in the store is one of the best outdoor furniture tips especially if you’re unusually tall or short.
Hammocks and daybeds are other good options when it comes to comfy patio furniture.
6. Space Saving Patio Furniture Tips
If you want to maximize your outdoor space, it’s a good idea to consider multi-use furniture items.
An ottoman could serve as extra seating if needed. A bench that doubles up as a dining chair is a good investment.
Be sure to consider usable space when designing your patio layout. Traffic flow has more impact on your choice of furniture than measurements alone.
Bar tables, café and bistro tables work better in smaller spaces since they take up less room than regular tables and chairs. Smaller pieces also work better if your patio has an irregular shape.
7. Design Aspects
Finally, consider the overall design of your patio when you go shopping for furniture.
Will you place the furniture on a hardwood deck or a paved area? Different styles of patio furniture lend themselves better to different types of patios.
If your patio has a pool nearby, it’s a good idea to choose waterproof, quick-drying patio furniture. Uneven ground means you should consider chairs and tables with self-leveling legs.
Color also comes into the design aspects of planning the perfect patio. While it’s a good idea to play it safe with neutral tones, patio’s are happy places and lend themselves well to bright, cheery colors and patterns.
More Lifestyle Ideas
A comfortable and well-designed patio can add value to your home and your daily life. Take your time choosing the perfect patio furniture to bring it to life.
Whether you’re buying patio furniture or wondering about the ins and outs of saving for retirement, we can help.
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