It s time to start thinking about spring. If you have finished decorating the interior of your home and have neglected to address your outdoor living spaces, now is the time to think about creating outdoor areas that are as beautiful and comfortable as the interior of your home. There is nothing more relaxing than sitting in your backyard on a beautiful sunny day. It s time to turn your patio or garden into a comfortable, stylish place to relax and entertain.
Choosing the right outdoor furniture is not as daunting as you may think. Here are a few tips:
- INVEST IN QUALITY. Avoid buying cheap outdoor furniture as it cannot withstand years of sun, cold, rain and snow. It may look fine the first year but that s about it. Invest in quality manufacturers who use quality materials. Outdoor furniture that is made of aluminum, both extruded and cast, will not rust because aluminum is a non-ferrous metal which means it has no iron in it. Outdoor furniture that is made of wrought iron or steel can possibly rust. Less expensive, inferior wrought iron or steel furniture is far more likely to rust than high-quality wrought iron or steel furniture. This happens because manufacturers of low-quality metal furniture often don't take the necessary steps to protect the metal from the moisture. Quality iron or steel furniture will be far less likely to rust due to their primer and powder-coating processes during production. Most high-quality outdoor furniture is designed to withstand the elements of nature and comes with 10, 15 or even 20-year warranties on their products.
- THE BEST TYPE OF OUTDOOR FURNITURE depends on your location. There are several types and each has its own unique benefits. For example, cast aluminum furniture and aluminum patio furniture cannot rust, which makes them great for coastal or humid areas. Wrought iron furniture is very sturdy and heavy, making it a great solution for windy areas. Certain types of furniture should also be avoided depending upon your climate. Wood furniture will hold up well in most parts of the country, but in states like Arizona, where it's very dry, wood furniture will require more frequent up-keep or maintenance. In the right climate teak patio furniture is durable, elegant and water-resistant.
- THE BEST FABRIC for outdoor cushions is acrylic. Because acrylic fabric doesn't contain any cotton, polyester or olefin fiber, it will not mildew, stain or break-down as easily. Currently, the leading brand of acrylic outdoor fabric is Sunbrella. Sunbrella not only uses acrylic fabric, but they solution-dye the material so that the color is solid throughout the fiber versus a pattern or color that is "printed" or "stamped" on the fabric after it has been woven. This is extremly beneficial because it ensures the fabric will be color-fast and will not fade over time and exposure to the elements.
- THE BEST STYLE. Outdoor areas are as unique as the structures they grace. Depending on the age, type and style of your home, you may have anything from a small balcony to a large outdoor living area. No matter which type of outdoor space you are dealing with, you should stick with furniture and accessories that complement your interior design.
