Having patio furniture on your property is a crucial step in making your house feel like home. It is a dream of many homeowners to create an outdoor oasis in their backyard or on their porch. A family gathering place can mean a swimming pool or a BBQ station, or it can simply mean creating a place for family time.
You should start by choosing patio furniture that elevates the décor of any backyard or outdoor area you want.
Investing in outdoor renovations leads to an average investment of $5,000 for American families. A third of these expenditures is allocated to patio furniture alone!
Depending on the amount of space available, outdoor furniture can be as simple as a few chairs and a table to as elaborate as an entire seating area with recliners, sun shades, and perhaps even fire pits. If you’ve always wanted to run a full outdoor bar station or even a movie theater set up in your backyard, you can!
All of these patio furniture ideas can be found on the market. However, there can be a lot of choices, and if you are in the market for outdoor furniture, it can be quite overwhelming
You don’t need to look any further than our buy patio furniture guide if you’re worried about choosing the right pieces for your patio. Below you can find a breakdown of what we have done for you:
Why should you invest in outdoor patio furniture?
Buy patio furniture that is compatible with the climate
Budget Considerations
Patio Furniture Types with the Most Durability
Outdoor furniture fabrics that are best
Outdoor Cushions: How To Buy
Why should you invest in outdoor patio furniture?
There are countless benefits to furnishing an outdoor area with furniture and accessories.
You can increase the value of your home even if your furniture is not left behind after the sale. 39% of sellers have reported selling their homes for up to 10% more when they stage it with furniture, according to the National Association of Realtors!
A dining area with seating can be the perfect place to celebrate birthdays, holidays, or other precious occasions with friends and family. By hosting the festivities at home instead of going out, you can even save some money in the long run!
While buying patio furniture, there are a lot of things to consider. Let’s get started.
Plan Your Outdoors
As a first step, it is crucial to consider the entire area of your outdoor space. Make sure you leave enough room for the furniture to move around, for chairs to be retracted or reclined fully. In the case of a small porch, you may not be able to fit a full outdoor dining set and should settle for an item of furniture that is smaller.
To calculate your usable space, you will need to take the following measurements:
Take a measurement of the area
If you plan on placing furniture outdoors, you must first measure all the outdoor spaces, such as the deck, porch, and your yard. You can compute the square footage of the room by multiplying the measurements of all sides.
Area of the surface
Additionally, you will have to determine how much space the furniture will take up. Hard cement, wood decks, grass, or a sandy area in the backyard might be used as this space. Your space will be better suited for furniture of the right size and shape if you determine the dimensions in advance.
What is the status of the property? Do you own it or rent it?
If you are renting the property or there is a chance you will need to move, it may not be wise to decorate your outdoor spaces with a lot of large, heavy furniture.
Instead of wooden or metal furniture, you may want to opt for lighter plastic patio furniture. Once moving day comes, you’ll find it much easier to pack. You might not be able to fit all your furniture into your new home, so rather than buying large furniture, choose small pieces instead.
Before you decorate any outdoor space, you might want to check with your landlord. The type of furniture you can bring into the space may be restricted by your landlord, or even its color and size, especially if the area is visible to other tenants.
Owning a house means that you get to choose the type of furniture you want to purchase. However, you may have to abide by some restrictions imposed by your homeowner’s association in your neighborhood.
Buy patio furniture that is compatible with the climate
Purchasing patio furniture requires you to take your climate into account. Outdoor materials can be greatly affected by the weather in an area. You may pick the wrong type, and it may wear out quicker or get damaged by the weather outside.
Keeping the following in mind will help you avoid making mistakes.
Water Bodies
It is generally best to avoid metal-framed furniture if you live near an ocean, a lake, or any body of water that is damp and humid. If you want to prevent weather damage and water damage, choose plastic or sealed and stained wood.
In addition to the wind, when storms come, you will want to choose heavy furniture that won’t blow away.
It’s hot outside
In areas where the temperature rises in the summer or during the midday, darker metals should be avoided when the temperature is very high. In addition to getting very hot and attracting more sunlight, dark colors could fade over time from exposure to the sun.
Avoid heavy pieces of furniture that will get very hot in hot climates like metal and plastic. Stick with lighter wood pieces instead. Make sure your furniture is shaded from direct sunlight by installing canopies and umbrellas.
The Ice And Snow
During the winter months, you may want to store outdoor furniture when not in use since snow and ice can accumulate. It may be easier for you to store it in a garage or shed, or with a protective cover fitted on it. Cold-weather wear can cause materials to wear down, so protecting them is important.
It’s raining
Softwoods such as pine or fir can quickly rot and rust. Plastic and synthetic resin make the best patio furniture for rainy climates – both of which are readily resistant to water. In addition, these materials also dry quickly, so your furniture can be used once the clouds have cleared.
A covering should be placed over your furniture if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain. In addition to preserving the materials, this will ensure that the furniture lasts longer.
Budget Considerations
Depending on the brand name, style, material, and size, outdoor patio furniture prices can vary quite a bit. It is very important to set a specific budget before you start shopping.
Most kinds of furniture are usually more expensive when they are made from higher quality materials. To have furniture that will last for decades, you should invest in more expensive pieces. Conversely, if your taste changes often or you plan to use it for only a couple of seasons, it is fine to get a lower-quality and cheaper piece.
Redecorating your space all at once is not necessary. Starting with items that you’ll most likely use at the moment can help you keep your budget on track.
Patio Furniture Types with the Most Durability
Depending on your particular interior design preferences, the environment in which you live, and your overall budget, choosing patio furniture will be the next step. The pros and cons of each material can differ, and depending on your taste, some may be preferable to others.
1. Patio furniture made of wood
Other popular styles include wood patio furniture, which offers exceptional versatility and variety. Strong, sturdy pieces made of solid wood last a long time.
Advantages
Several wood styles and colors are available.
Color and style can be altered by staining
When properly cared for, it is durable and long-lasting
Some woods are naturally weather-resistant
The best choice for all weather conditions
Patio furniture made from wood can be used in wet weather when it has been treated
It is resistant to extreme heat, humidity, and sun
Drawbacks
In the absence of maintenance or sealing, wood cracks, warps, or rots
It is often necessary to sand and re-stain after several years
Tips for Caring
Clean damp spots quickly by wiping them off with a cloth
Avoid sun and rain to prevent prolonged staining
Pricing
Prices for wooden patio sets with four pieces usually range from $400 to $800
You will need to spend $1,000 or more for a high-quality set made of expensive wood.
2. Patio furniture made of cast aluminum
Stainless steel patio furniture has become quite popular as it doesn’t rust or absorb moisture. An added layer of protection is typically provided by a powder finish.
Advantages
Durable and resistant to moisture and rust
Cleans up easily
Easily transportable due to its lightweight design
Suitable for any type of weather
A material that is versatile and durable, resistant to rain, sunlight, and extreme weather conditions
Drawbacks
A strong wind can easily tip it over
If the coating chips, the material will rust
Tips for Caring
Using mild soap and water, clean the surface
Protect any chipped areas from oxidation by maintaining them
Pricing
Four-piece chairs and table sets typically cost between $600 and over $1,000.
3. Rattan Patio Furniture
Patio furniture made of synthetic fibers such as PVC, nylon, or polyethylene can take on the appearance of wicker by weaving fibers together. Typically, resin wicker furniture is made of a variety of colors and patterns and is wrapped over a metal frame.
Advantages
Durable and highly resistant to weather
Colors will not fade in the UV-resistant material
Designed to last, they require virtually no maintenance
The best choice for all weather conditions
UV light, rain, and humidity can be tolerated
Drawbacks
In strong winds, the material can blow away
In direct sunlight, plastic resin can become hot
Scratches and cracks can occur with some plastics with time
Tips for Caring
After rinsing, let it air dry
Pricing
Several hundred dollars will buy you a smaller resin wicker set
Under $50 a piece, you can find individual chairs
4. Patio furniture made of wrought iron
For outdoor furnishing, wrought iron furniture gives off an old-fashioned, vintage look. Beautiful designs can often be produced from wrought iron, which is extremely durable.
Advantages
Heavy and extremely strong
A durable finish can prolong the life of the material
The best choice for dry weather
Rain is best avoided
The direct sun can make metal very hot, so you should cover it with cushions or a awning
Drawbacks
Whenever a coating is chipped, metal can rust, so re-painting must be done frequently
Because metal seats are often uncomfortable, it is best to cover them with cushions
Heavy furniture makes moving around difficult
Tips for Caring
Spots that are wet should be wiped up immediately, using a lightly moist cloth
In case of chipped paint, repaint
Pricing
Depending on the size of the group, aluminum patio furniture sets can range from $800 to more than $1000
5. Patio furniture made of steel
If you prefer a metal finish to wrought iron or aluminum, steel patio furniture is an excellent compromise. A steel patio set will usually last for years and is usually reasonably priced.
Advantages
The material is durable and does not bend or dent easily
It is possible to shape and style steel in many ways
Added rust protection with powder coating
It is best suited to any kind of weather
Even at extreme temperatures, steel can withstand rain and humidity
Drawbacks
Leaving seating areas in direct sunlight for long periods of time can cause metal to retain heat.
If exposed to rain and a great deal of water, the material can rust
Tips for Caring
Wipe dirty areas down with soapy water and dry them with a cloth
In case of chipping, treat it as soon as possible
For extra protection and shine, apply a coat of car wax
Pricing
The average cost of steel patio furniture is $450 to $700
Based on where you live, what material should you buy?
The following map can help you determine what materials work best in each climate around the nation.
Outdoor furniture fabrics that are best
It is easy to increase the comfort, color, and appeal of your patio furniture by choosing beautiful cushions and pillows. Since metal frames can get quite hot in the sun in hot climates, it’s a good idea to add weather-resistant fabrics to patio furniture.
Olefin
Fabrics made from Olefin are less expensive than acrylic but also very durable and weatherproof. Color is added to the olefin thread before weaving, so patterns can be created. Despite this, it is stain-resistant and easy to clean with soapy water. However, it is not quite as soft as other material types.
Tips for Caring
Stains should be treated right away with a damp cloth to remove moisture
If you would like to avoid shrinkage, hand wash in cold water with mild detergent
Dry by air
Acrylic
Fabrics made of acrylic are perfect for patio furniture that gets wet from time to time. Mold and mildew are not a problem with this material. Textiles come in every color under the sun, and with mild detergent, they are easily hand washed.
Even when exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time, acrylic fabrics remain bright and vibrant. Therefore, it is a popular choice for patio umbrellas, cushions, and pillows.
Tips for Caring
Can be washed in hot water and with fabric softener on the gentle cycle
Hand washing is a good option for delicate materials
Dry machine at low temperature
If necessary, iron
Polyester
It is easy to dye or even paint polyester cushions after weaving, and it is water-resistant. For added weather resistance, it is often coated in acrylic or vinyl. A coating of acrylic keeps the fabric soft, which allows it to be used in pillows and cushions. It is recommended to use vinyl coatings on umbrellas or screens, as they stiffen the fabric.
The color of polyester fades with time when it is exposed to harsh sunlight, so it is recommended to use it in a shaded area. Hand washing with mild soap and water is recommended.
Tips for Caring
A mild detergent and warm water can be used to machine wash
Invert cushion covers
Dry on low heat or air dry
Foam
The foam inserts in patio furniture cushions need to be properly cared for. There are a number of types:
Open cell foam allows water and air to pass through, which prevents mildew and mold growth. Despite its convenience, foam mattresses are relatively expensive.
The closed-cell foam in flotation devices has the advantage of repelling water, making them buoyant. If you plan on using your cushions around water often, this is a good choice. In contrast to other types of foam, it is less comfortable to sleep on.
Foam made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) – This type of foam is used in outdoor upholstery because it is non-deformable and stays firm. As a bonus, this foam dries fast, is mold-resistant, and can be recycled.
Foam made from polyurethane absorbs water and dries slowly. It is, however, treated in order to prevent mold and mildew growth. For this type of foam, it is best to cover it with a plastic cover to keep it from getting too wet.
Foam made from polyester is one of the least expensive options and dries quickly. Over time, however, it tends to lose its shape, especially if it is washed frequently. Wrapping it with an additional protective covering is recommended to prevent this.
Outdoor Cushions: How To Buy
It is best to measure your old cushions before tossing them away in order to get new outdoor cushions that will fit perfectly. Make sure that your new cushions are the same shape, thickness, width, and length as your old ones.
If the outdoor cushions you once had are no longer available, or if your patio furniture didn’t come with any, you may be able to measure the furniture itself. Take precise measurements of each seat you wish to outfit with new cushions using a tape measure.
Take special care while measuring to make sure the new cushions will fit snugly. Cushions with square backs won’t fit very well if your seats have curved backs. Even if you cannot find an exact match, find a cushion approximately the right shape since outdoor cushions are soft.
Here are some bonus tips
1. How Do I Know When To Buy Patio Furniture?
Shop around for clearance prices at the end of the season to get the best price on patio furniture. Summer or early fall is generally the time for this.
You would be better off starting shopping at the end of the winter if you want the widest variety of options. Stores usually receive their latest shipments when spring and summer designs are being designed.
2. Buying patio furniture: how much should I spend?
Obviously, your budget plays a major role in this decision.
The most common cost of a backyard renovation is about $1,000 to $5,000, which typically means that about $300 to $1,600 is spent on outdoor furniture.
Final thoughts
Your home can be elevated – and your summer days and leisures will be more enjoyable – by having a beautiful outdoor space. However, if you want a beautiful patio that lasts for years, you’ll need to plan before purchasing patio furniture. Look at our patio chairs and patio conversation sets for your next purchase.