Turning outdoor space into extended living space has become a very popular trend and more and more people are looking to create an outdoor room in their yards. Like any decorating project, the furniture tends to be the most important aspect and the most expensive. Before rushing out and buying the prettiest or most appealing outdoor furniture, learn about the pros and cons of the construction and find patio furniture that will suit individual needs.
Steel Patio Furniture
Pros – Steel outdoor furniture is obviously incredibly durable and heavy so it’s not likely to be tipped over or blown over.
Cons – Steel lawn furniture can rust so it will need special treatment to keep it looking great. If the climate is one that features a snowy season its best to bring steel furniture inside, which can be difficult because it doesn’t collapse or store in small spaces well and it’s very heavy.
Aluminum Lawn Furniture
Pros – Aluminum patio furniture doesn’t rust and keeps its finish very well. Aluminum is lighter than steel furniture and it’s virtually maintenance free.
Cons – Aluminum outdoor furniture that is high quality and will last a long time is expensive. Not an unexpected benefit as quality often costs more. Aluminum furniture stores a little more easily than steel because it’s lighter and can be stacked, but it’s still a space hog if it’s being stored.
Wood Outdoor Furniture
Pros – Wood patio furniture is incredibly popular because it’s durable, doesn’t absorb heat like metals and plastics and is easy to refinish and paint for a new look or to restore beauty. Some wood deck furniture is collapsible and easy to store which is perfect for people with limited space.
Cons – Wood lawn furniture is still rather heavy and most of it needs to be stored indoors during the snowy season. Wood can also be expensive, especially if it’s teak or cedar which can be left outside year round.
Wicker Patio Furniture
Pros – Wicker lawn furniture is very lightweight, durable and attractive. It can be more comfortable than metal and wood furniture because it has a little give when compressed.
Cons – Good quality wicker outdoor furniture can be very expensive and it can be hard to store. The weather resistant variety also adds a little more to the price tag. Inexpensive wicker isn’t very durable and can unravel and poke people.
Plastic Lawn Furniture
Pros – Plastic patio furniture is usually very inexpensive, its durable and it often stacks for easier storage. Plastic also comes in a variety of colors and styles that suit a number of different décor styles. Plastic is also extremely lightweight so it can be moved easily and frequently if necessary.
Cons – Plastic outdoor furniture is cheap and often looks it. For people looking to create a refined outdoor room plastic just won’t cut it. Some plastic furniture isn’t as durable as others and can crack in extreme temperatures as well.
Fabrics
What to look for – Fabrics that are produced from tough acrylic fibers, so they resist stains and mildew while maintaining their good looks indoors or out. 100% solution-dyed yarns that are woven and not stamped – the color can’t fade or wash out, so you can be sure they’ll remain vibrant for years, even in the harshest sun! Variety in styles, colors and materials. You can mix and match and change the look every season.
To create a really great outdoor space for living, assess the function of the space, who will be using it, for what, when, how frequently, and how big the budget is. Use these criteria and the information above to select the right deck furniture.
What to look for when selecting products from your local retailer:
SERVICE: Your local retailer will stand behind what they sell and ensure your complete satisfaction.
CONSTRUCTION: Buy products that are made in the USA. Cheap, substandard and inexpensive furniture that is marketed through the internet and big box stores cannot compete with the service, quality and craftsmanship of products bought from your local retailer. For example, ask your retailer if their furniture has welds that are 360 degrees and reinforced joints. High quality furniture feels sturdy and solid. Do not settle for less. You may wind up replacing cheap furniture in a few years.
MATERIALS: If it looks and feels cheap it is. For example, some manufacturers of aluminum furniture use what feels like soda can aluminum. Superior patio furniture is made from aircraft grade aluminum. High grade aluminum provides lasting beauty and durability. Ask your retailer if their products are made with a powder coating which is 10 times thicker than wet paint often used on less expensive furniture. Superior outdoor furniture has commercial quality with resort durability.
SELECTION: Your local retailer will have a wider variety and selection than the big box stores. They have a dedicated staff to ensure that your selection will fit your living space and will suit the needs of your family. Ask if they have customizable fabrics, frame colors and collections from which to choose. 
