Tips on Buying the Best Outdoor Furniture

If you have ever shopped for outdoor furniture, you might be left confused at all the choices. Some outdoor furniture lasts longer than others and some might look better than others. When you make your choice, you want to get good looks and get the most for your money. Outdoor furniture is not cheap, so you want to do everything you can to explore your options for good-looking, long-lasting outdoor furniture.

When you decide it is time to look for outdoor furniture, consider the following:

Will the furniture be constantly exposed to the elements?

Will the furniture be moved from time to time?

What do you plan on using the furniture for-extended use out by the pool-or occasional use on a covered patio?

What is your budget?

How big is the space you are furnishing?

What style do you prefer?

When you have answers to those questions, here is a handy guide to help you shop for furniture.

Wicker:

Wicker is a beautiful choice for outdoor furniture. It is a classic choice with a distinctive look. Typically, a high quality wicker is long lasting and durable and with the right padding, can be very comfortable. In addition, you have a lot of options when you choose wicker. You can get all kinds of shapes and sizes and your choice of color. Because wicker can range from inexpensive to costly, make sure you are picking the right kind of wicker for your needs.

For example, rattan furniture looks great. However, it is often the least expensive because it is not good for extended exposure to the elements. Unless it is treated, it can ruin in excessive sunlight and exposure to moisture. Rattan is a good choice for indoors, or in a covered patio area. When you opt for rattan, look for one that has a close weave and no splinters.

If you love the look of wicker, but want to keep it outside, you might want to consider a synthetic wicker. This kind of wicker looks just like the real thing, but offers you flexibility to leave it in exposed areas. Synthetic wicker usually has a sturdy aluminum frame and is also UV resistant. It is also easy to clean-just spray it down with water and detergent when it gets dirty.

Aluminum:

Aluminum is a popular choice for outdoor furniture. However, because it is often made hollow tubes, it is lightweight. This is not the best choice for places that are subject to high winds. It is not as sturdy as solid aluminum, but it is long lasting and will not rust. Because it is lightweight, you can move this furniture easily, so it is a good choice for outdoor entertaining.

When you select aluminum furniture, there are typically two types: wrought aluminum and cast aluminum. Wrought is made by forging the metals, so it can offer you a classic, simple design. Look for pieces that have no cracks. In addition, you want to find pieces that have the joints welded and not bolted. Bolted pieces can rust very quickly. Cast aluminum is different because you can find this furniture in more intricate designs. Molten aluminum is poured into molds. It is very functional and durable, but you will find that cast aluminum is much more expensive that than wrought furniture. Look for aluminum furniture with a power coat finish to help it resist the weather.

Wood:

Wood is another very popular choice when it comes to outdoor furniture. Wood has a nice look and feel and most of the time, can be left outdoors for a very long time. In addition, it does not absorb heat like aluminum and it is easy to clean. It is important to remember that when you choose wood, you may have to periodically maintain the furniture.

Teak is a good choice for outdoor furniture because it is very strong and durable. It is also resistant to rot and decay. You will find that teak will be a more expensive wood choice, but will offer you years of use. Eucalyptus is a nice choice that has good color and long durability. This wood is not as strong as other choices, but it is very weather resistant. This wood will naturally turn colors in over time, or can be treated to maintain the natural color. Another popular wood for outdoor furniture is a tropical hardwood called Balau. It is less expensive that teak and is just as durable. You will need to treat this furniture from time to time with wood oil, as this will increase the life-span of your furniture.

When you look at wood furniture to go outside, make sure you consider the price you pay as a long-term investment. If you buy furniture that is inexpensive, you can bet that it will not last nearly as long as some of the other more expensive wood choices.