When choosing outdoor furniture for your home, you want to ensure you take your time and choose wisely. This is because you don't want to buy just the cheapest option you can find, as uncomfortable furniture will mean not being able to enjoy your space no matter the landscaping or surroundings. Cheap furniture may also not hold up well to inclement weather and you may wind up replacing furniture that is worn or weathered every year, costing you more money in the long run. Note a few tips and reminders for choosing outdoor furniture for your home.
1. Material's appearance
Teak is a very popular material for outdoor furniture as it's rugged and durable but still offers a very relaxed and natural look. Teak will age to a silvery grey color, which many homeowners actually like. However, if you want to maintain the look of wood with your furniture, you might choose bamboo instead. This material is also durable but it will retain its look indefinitely.
For a more contemporary look, opt for metal furniture. Metal stands up to rugged weather so it's also good for the worst climates and terrains. Metal will mean a sleek look, but remember that metal does get very warm in direct sunshine and will hold cold temperatures. Choose thick cushions if you do decide on metal furniture; these will make them comfortable and will also tone down the stark look of metal pieces.
2. Maintenance and repair
You might choose the material of outdoor furniture based on its looks, but also note the maintenance needed. Wood may need to be stained and repainted every year, or have a sealant added each season. Aluminum doesn't rust but steel does, so you might need to sand down your steel furniture if it should rust or corrode over time. While you can usually hose down metal furniture for a quick cleanup, teak often needs to be washed with a wood soap so it doesn't get dry.
Along with the material, note the connectors for chairs with backs that fold down; if they're made of metal, they may rust over time. Plastic connectors might last much longer before they need replacing. Thin vinyl straps on seats may actually wear out under your body weight and need replacing after time, while teak or metal will hold up over the years. Consider this needed maintenance and potential repairs to your furniture before you choose what you want for your outdoor space. For assistance, talk to a professional like The Greenery Garden Centre.
