Patios are not just a place to eat and chat with friends and family, but they are also a space where you can enjoy nature and relax after a long day. This area essentially extends your living space. See more about patios on this site here.
However, when you have so many options for backyard furniture, how do you choose? Here is a guide on finding the perfect chairs and tables for your home.
When it comes to patio furniture, there are a variety of different styles to choose from. Whether you want something classic and timeless or something more modern and contemporary, there is definitely a style that will suit your taste. Here is a brief overview of some of the most popular types that you may want to consider:
Classic: The classic style is typically made from wood or wicker and features a traditional design. This type of furniture is often seen in outdoor spaces that are designed to have a more natural feel.
Contemporary: Modern or contemporary designs are usually made from materials like aluminum or plastic and feature clean lines and a minimalist design. This type of furniture is perfect for creating a sleek and modern look in your outdoor space.
Rustic: Rustic styles are usually made from wood or wicker and feature an earthy and rugged element. These types are perfect for creating an inviting and cozy outdoor space.
Things to Know Before Buying
1. Consider the Weather in your Area
You might want to build a rooftop above the patio when it frequently rains in your area. If it’s too hot, get patio furniture ideas from the link provided that will be ideal for outdoor exposures regardless of the climate. The dry and hot conditions generally make wood crack and splinter. At the same time, frequent rains may typically result in rotting wood.
Stronger winds will make aluminum chairs fly. Iron can be ideal for a windy place, but it will not stand a chance against salty air when the property is near the beach. Too much sunlight will discolor and dull the paint. It will bleach wood and fabrics and degrade various synthetic materials.
To ensure that what you buy will last, inspect its inherent properties. Metal does not generally react to sunlight, but rubber and plastic tend to be affected by too much ultraviolet light. Generally, you will find wood with high-quality finishing. Still, it will break down in time, so you might consider refinishing everything or getting a replacement about once every ten years.
2. Know your Patio Space
Get accurate measurements of your outdoor space and consider its shape. If you have a broad and wide deck, then anything can fit. This is similar to getting furnishings in your family or living room, where you should leave more than enough space for groupings and several guests. The traffic flow should be smoother as well.
When you have a smaller deck, you might want to consider smaller chairs and tables that look like dining sets. This is because the stools and the bar tables are narrower. Smaller profiles like bistro furniture that looks like a café can also help.
Before going to the shop, get measurements of your space’s dimensions and take a picture. You can also draw everything and assign measurements to each wall so the salespeople will know what to recommend. The best ones are not too big or too small for your area.
3. Determine the Placement
When you think that the chairs and tables are too exposed to the weather, you might want to consider building an overhead covering for them. Consider some factors on whether you want to place them on grass or hard concrete. Others also have options of placing the furniture on a paved patio or wooden decks.
Just make sure that the materials are a good match with their surroundings. For example, it is not a good idea to place pine furniture on grassy surfaces, especially if the patio is exposed to the elements. Moisture can cause the wood to rot, and it will also corrode other metals. See more tips in this link here: https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/patio/designs/8-tips-patio-furniture/.
4. Comfort should be your Primary Goal
You are going to use the space to relax, so you must be comfortable with your tables and lounges. Place cushions or make your own soft and fluffy pillows. Ensure that the fabric is resistant to mildew and the covers do not quickly fade.
If you are shopping for upholstery, it is worth noting that the furniture itself will outlast them, so only buy affordable ones. You will be more likely to replace the cushions a lot of times in just a decade, but you can always keep them away when you are not using them. For off-seasons, always store them in a shed or dedicated storage to protect the materials from the rain or sun.
Aside from comfortable sofas, recliners and chaise lounges are also excellent options for relaxing. Others may want daybeds and hammocks, but it is totally up to you.
