A Complete Guide to Selecting Outdoor Patio Furniture

Outdoor living spaces have become a highly desirable extension of the home for many homeowners. Patios, decks, and porches provide an inviting area to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors in comfort and style. Investing in quality patio furniture helps transform these exterior spaces into fully-utilized living areas.

The right outdoor furniture makes it possible to dine al fresco, lounge with a good book, host family gatherings, or chat over coffee with friends. With beautiful, durable patio furniture, the outdoor oasis feels like another room of the house. Given the value quality patio sets add in terms of both enjoyment and home resale appeal, it is worth taking the time to explore options and make informed furniture choices. This guide covers key factors to consider when selecting patio furniture to maximize comfort and functionality for years to come.

Measure Available Space

When selecting outdoor patio furniture, it's crucial to start by accurately measuring the area where you plan to place the furniture. This will determine how much and what types of pieces you can choose.

First, sketch out the basic shape and boundaries of your patio or deck. Note any existing built-in features like a fireplace, grill station, or pergola that impact the layout. Measure the length and width precisely, accounting for any irregular shapes.

Next, map out how you intend to use each section of the space. For dining areas, measure the footprint needed for the table and chairs, allowing ample leg room. Plan for traffic flow, mapping out pathways for entering, exiting, and circulating around furniture. Measure doorway clearance to ensure pieces fit through.

Consider existing plants, trees, and landscaping elements that affect placement. Leave enough space between furniture and other features so pieces don't crowd or block access. Account for any stairs, railings, or sloped areas that eat into usable space.

With accurate measurements in hand, you can determine how much and which types of furniture best suit the area. This avoids purchasing items that are too large or too small. Proper planning of the layout also ensures the furniture arrangement facilitates conversation, traffic flow, and intended activities. Starting with a measured plan sets the stage for patio furniture that fits your space both functionally and aesthetically.

Select Durable Materials

When selecting patio furniture, it's important to choose materials that can withstand the elements and last for many years. Four popular options to consider are:

Poly

Poly furniture, made from recycled plastics, is an eco-friendly, durable, and low-maintenance option for patio furniture. It is resistant to rot, cracking, and splintering. Poly furniture withstands all types of weather, including sun, rain, and snow, without fading or deteriorating. It is also resistant to insects and does not need painting or sealing, making it an excellent choice for long-term outdoor use. Its durability and minimal upkeep requirements make poly furniture a standout choice.

Teak

Teak is a tropical hardwood known for its durability, weather-resistance, and rich color. It's more expensive than other materials but can last for decades with proper maintenance. Teak holds up well against sun, rain, and humidity. It requires annual cleaning and sealing to maintain its golden-brown patina.

Aluminum

Aluminum is lightweight, rust-proof, and weather-resistant. It's often less expensive than wicker or wood. Aluminum comes in various finishes and can mimic the look of wrought iron or wood. It requires little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. One downside is aluminum can dent easily.

Resin Wicker

Resin wicker has a woven look but is made from synthetic fibers coated in plastic. It resists fading, mold, mildew, and tears. Resin wicker is inexpensive, low-maintenance, and suitable for all weather. It can lose its luster over time but is still durable. The plastic coating can peel or crack.

No matter the material, consider your local climate. In hot, sunny areas look for fade-resistant fabrics. In damp climates mold-resistant materials are ideal. Make sure frames can withstand high winds or snow loads. For the best overall durability and minimal maintenance, you should go for poly furniture. Selecting the right patio furniture materials for your environment ensures they withstand the elements.

Focus on Comfort

Comfort is a key consideration when selecting patio furniture, as you want pieces that will accommodate relaxation and conversation. Opt for generously padded cushions and pillows that provide ergonomic support and softness. Look for adjustable features like reclining backs, swivel motions, and extendable footrests that allow customization for optimal comfort.

When hosting gatherings, modular sectional pieces allow you to configure the seating for conversation groups or dining. Seek out deep seating options with chaises that welcome lounging. Furniture with built-in side tables provide convenient spots for drinks and snacks. Look for lightweight, movable chairs like sling chairs that can be pulled up for extra seating or arranged in different configurations. Tables with extension leaves or drop-down sides allow you to expand or contract the surface area as needed. An umbrella provides cooling shade on sunny days.

Select pieces suited for the activities you envision hosting, whether casual family meals, parties with friends, or kicking back with a good book. Comfortable, flexible furniture enables your patio to facilitate varied functions and keeps your outdoor area inviting.

Choose Complementary Style

When selecting patio furniture, it's important to choose pieces that complement your existing home decor and aesthetic. The style should seamlessly extend the look and feel of your indoor spaces to the outdoors. For example, if your home features a coastal cottage style, look for furniture with weathered finishes, woven textures, and light, airy colors like white and blue. If your home decor skews modern, sleek lines, metallic accents, and neutral colors are ideal patio furniture choices.

In addition to style, look for pieces that serve multiple functions to maximize the use of your outdoor area. Sectionals with ottomans, chairs with pull-out footrests, and tables with built-in coolers offer flexibility for dining, lounging, or entertaining in the same space. Durable, weather-resistant fabrics like canvas and olefin are ideal for cushions and pillows that can be moved around and rearranged as needed. With some creative styling using outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and decorative accessories, you can transform basic patio furniture into a polished, welcoming outdoor living space that reflects your personal taste and complements your home.

Seek Quality Construction

When selecting patio furniture, it is important to prioritize quality construction for maximum durability and stability. For poly furniture, look for features like mortise-and-tenon joinery, which provides a strong and seamless connection between pieces. Hidden fasteners ensure a clean and sleek appearance, free from exposed screws or bolts that can rust or loosen over time. Marine-grade stainless steel hardware is crucial for its resistance to corrosion and ability to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

Avoid poly furniture that uses visible screws or flimsy connectors which can compromise the integrity and aesthetics of the furniture. Seek out pieces with thick, solid construction and reinforced joints for added stability. Examine the framing and connections to ensure secure attachment points between the furniture components, ensuring a long-lasting and sturdy build.

Quality cushions are also important for comfort. Look for fade-resistant and fast-drying fabrics like olefin that allow water to pass through quickly. The cushion fill should be thick and firm yet comfortable. Polyester fiber or foam fill will retain shape and not compress easily.

Well-constructed patio furniture made with weather-resistant, rust-proof materials can last for years. Spending a bit more upfront for sturdy and stable construction is a worthwhile investment that will save money in the long run. Properly maintained quality patio furniture provides a comfortable and stylish outdoor living space for years of enjoyment.

Compare Prices to Find the Best Value

When selecting patio furniture, it's important to find the right balance between quality and affordability. Investing in high-quality, durable pieces usually costs more upfront but saves money in the long run compared to replacing cheap furniture every couple of years. However, there are still ways to get great deals on premium outdoor furniture.

The off-season winter months are the best time to find sales, as retailers try to clear inventory before new models arrive in spring. Watch for markdowns, end-of-season sales, and clearance events during the end of summer, fall, and holiday sales events. Sign up for email alerts from manufacturers and stores to receive notifications about upcoming sales.

Set a realistic patio furniture budget based on your needs and space, then try to stick close to it. Having a spending limit helps avoid overspending on unnecessary features. Consider mixing pricier and more affordable items, splurging on upholstered seating, and saving on side tables.

Financing options like low interest store cards can make higher-priced purchases more manageable, but avoid deals that seem too good to be true. Always compare prices across retailers. With some strategic planning and smart shopping, you can furnish your patio nicely while staying within your budget.

Add Protective Elements

Making outdoor furniture last requires taking steps to shield it from the elements. Exposure to sunlight, rain, wind, and other weather conditions can gradually break down materials, fading fabrics and causing corrosion.

One key protective measure is choosing furniture made with UV-resistant materials. Look for pieces constructed from high-quality synthetic wicker, powder-coated metals, and fabrics designed to limit fading and deterioration from the sun's rays. Using UV-blocking fabric conditioners can provide additional sun protection.

During periods of non-use, furniture covers provide the best defense against damage. Look for covers made from weather-resistant and breathable materials like polyester that are specifically sized for your furniture pieces. Make sure to securely fasten covers to keep them in place. Remove covers periodically to check for mold or mildew.

Storing cushions, pillows, and removable fabric covers indoors will also extend their lifespan. When not using umbrella bases, ensure pole holes are plugged to prevent water collection and rusting. Take time before and after seasons of use to clean furniture and make minor repairs to get the most enjoyment from patio pieces for years to come.

Plan for Maintenance

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your outdoor furniture lasts for years to come. Establish a regular cleaning schedule based on how often the furniture is used. For light usage, plan to clean the furniture every few months. For heavy usage, clean it monthly or even weekly. Use a mild soap and water solution and a soft bristle brush to remove dirt and debris. Pay special attention to crevices and joints where grime can accumulate. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning.

Also, consider applying protective coatings like teak oil on wood furniture and polishing pastes on metal to prevent corrosion and discoloration.

When not in use, store furniture cushions and pillows indoors to prevent mold and mildew. Use furniture covers or bring smaller pieces inside a shed or garage. For larger items that can't be moved, ensure they are completely dry before covering them to avoid trapping moisture.

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your investment in quality patio furniture. Establishing a routine cleaning schedule and utilizing preventative measures like storage and protective coatings will keep your outdoor furniture looking its best for years of enjoyment.

Conclusion

Selecting the right outdoor patio furniture involves considering several key factors to ensure comfort, durability, and style. Carefully measuring the patio space and selecting materials suitable for local weather will provide long-lasting value. Prioritizing comfort through ergonomic design and cushions creates an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertaining. Complementary style and quality construction give the space aesthetic appeal. Comparing prices and shopping sales allow you to invest wisely. Adding protective elements like UV coatings and furniture covers extends the life of your purchase. Finally, proper maintenance keeps your furniture looking its best for years of enjoyment. Your outdoor living space is an invaluable asset, enhancing your quality of life. By making informed choices based on your needs, you can transform your patio into a cherished outdoor room for gatherings with family and friends. With the right patio furniture, your outdoor oasis awaits.