Choosing the right outdoor furniture can completely transform your patio, deck, or backyard into a relaxing oasis. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to determine what the best outdoor furniture is for your needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting outdoor furniture, provide an overview of the most popular materials and styles, and recommend some of the highest quality products available today.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Outdoor Furniture
Several important factors should be taken into account when shopping for outdoor furniture to ensure you select pieces that are comfortable, durable, and design-forward.
Weather Resistance
Outdoor furniture must be able to withstand the elements including sun, rain, snow, wind, and temperature extremes. Look for materials like teak, aluminum, wicker, and stainless steel that are weather-resistant. Also consider cushions and fabrics with fade-resistant technologies and removable covers that make cleaning and storage easier during off-season months.
Comfort
Don’t sacrifice comfort just because the furniture will live outdoors. Look for chairs, loungers, and sofas with supportive cushions and backrests. Test pieces in person when possible and favor ergonomic designs.
Style
Choose a style that fits your taste and complements the architecture and landscape of your outdoor space. Clean-lined modern furniture can work well in contemporary settings while rustic wood tables and chairs fit cottage-style homes. Classic wicker sets offer timeless appeal.
Durability
Outdoor furniture takes a beating from constant sun, moisture, dirt, and wear. Favor brands that use solid construction with quality hardware and materials built to last season after season.
Easy Maintenance
Cleaning and caring for outdoor furniture extends its lifespan. Opt for materials like aluminum or synthetic wicker that simply need an occasional wash down versus wood that requires sanding, sealing, staining and may be prone to splintering.
Budget
Outdoor furniture runs the gambit from budget-friendly to luxury. Set realistic expectations based on what you can afford and look for sales, discounts or value collections to maximize your investment. Quality sets used regularly are worth spending a bit more on.
Most Popular Outdoor Furniture Materials
The main materials used to construct outdoor furniture each have their own benefits. Consider which will best suit your lifestyle and design.
Teak
Teak is a premium hardwood valued for its gorgeous grain, warm golden hue that patinas over time, and exceptional weather-resistance. It requires minimal maintenance and can last upwards of 50 years or more with proper care. While expensive, it represents a worthwhile investment in long-lasting luxury.
Wicker
Wicker refers to woven furniture made from materials like rattan, reed, bamboo and synthetic polymers. It has a casual, organic look and comes in a variety of weave styles from airy to tight patterns. While outdoor wicker requires more protection from the elements than teak, its affordability makes it a popular choice.
Aluminum
Aluminum outdoor furniture is praised for its lightweight feel, corrosion-resistance, and outdoor-friendly finish. It’s easy to clean and available in a wide range of styles from contemporary to traditional. While prone to dents, scratched powder-coated paint can be touched up to keep pieces looking fresh.
Stainless Steel
Sleek stainless steel lends a modern, cutting-edge look with durability to match. Rust-resistant steel frames hold up well outdoors while mesh seat and back materials promote airflow and poolside pieces resist moisture. Expect higher price points but superb quality.
Plastic
Plastic outdoor furniture offers budget-friendly pricing and low-maintenance convenience. While styles and quality vary greatly, the best plastic options mimic wood grain or wicker weaves. Look for UV-protected polypropylene or resin materials for added durability.
Wrought Iron
Classic and ornate wrought iron sets stand up to weather and add sophistication to outdoor spaces. This solid material requires little upkeep when properly sealed and painted. From bistro sets to benches, wrought iron makes a handsome furnishing choice.
Best Styles of Outdoor Furniture
Shopping for outdoor furniture by style allows you to create a cohesive look for your patio or backyard space. Consider what furniture pieces make sense for how you want to use the space and the overall aesthetic you hope to achieve.
Patio Sets
Pre-configured patio sets take the guesswork out of furniture buying with everything needed to outfit a seating area. Typical patio sets include a sofa or loveseat, accent chairs, coffee table or ottoman, and side tables or end tables, all in matching materials and style. This versatile style works well for creating a conversation nook.
Dining Sets
Outdoor dining sets centered around a dining table make it easy to share meals alfresco. Look for weather-resistant table tops like teak or synthetic materials that accommodate 4, 6, 8 or more diners. Matching chairs, benches or stools complete the space. Some sets include cushions, placemats and umbrella.
Sofas/Sectionals
Deep seating sofas, loveseats, chairs and sectional configurations expand layout possibilities. Modular designs allow you to arrange pieces in different shapes. These plush seating options bring the comfort of indoor living outside. Durable cushions and Sunbrella type fabrics resist fading.
Loungers
Recline and relax outside on weather-resistant loungers and adjustable chaise chairs. Look for cushioned chaise lounges that allow you to sit upright or stretch out flat. Sturdy aluminum or teak frames, fabric slings and supportive cushions enable all-day comfort.
Hammocks
Few furnishings evoke laid-back relaxation like a hammock swaying gently in the breeze. Cotton rope hammocks come in single and double sizes. Hammocks on free-standing bases or hammock swings add mobility and convenience. Add thick mattress-style padding for extra comfort.
Conversation Sets
Create an intimate gathering area with conversation sets consisting of two armchairs, a loveseat or sofa, and a side coffee table ideal for placing snacks and drinks. These scaled-down arrangements cater to casual conversation and are easy to maintain.
Poolside Furniture
If outfitting an outdoor space for lounging poolside, look for furniture specifically designed for pool areas. Waterproof, lightweight aluminum is ideal for chairs and chaises. Teak tables can endure splashes and spills near the pool’s edge. Avoid cushions not made for getting wet.
Fire Pit Seating
Groupings of upholstered benches, chairs or built-in seating surrounding a fire pit create a special spot for evening ambiance. Look for fire retardant fabrics and water-resistant cushions. Chat sets with two benches and a table allow both intimate and open shape arrangements.
Bar Height Pieces
Elevated bar tables and high-top chairs lend an inviting look and encourage mingling. Groupings of two or four bar height pieces adjacent to a patio, kitchen or poolside create a casual dining and cocktail area. Match this furnishing style to your decor.
Top Brands of Outdoor Furniture
Reputable manufacturers produce outdoor furniture designed to withstand seasons of use. These leading brands offer diverse styles, quality construction and weather-resistant materials worthy of investment.
- Woodard – Since 1866, this maker has defined luxury outdoor furniture with gorgeous teak, wrought iron, aluminum and wicker designs. Their collections offer unmatched quality and comfort.
- O.W. Lee – Known for handcrafted wrought iron furnishings, O.W. Lee uses old world techniques on conversation and dining sets, loungers, and fire pit seating resulting in heirloom quality.
- Brown Jordan – Sophisticated modern silhouettes define Brown Jordan’s LED-lit collections crafted from marine grade polymer and aluminum. They set the standard for trend-driven style.
- Lane Venture – From deep seating sofas and sectionals to dining sets, Lane Venture’s outdoor furniture has premium comfort and customization with sustainably-sourced teak and handwoven wicker.
- Harmonia Living – Featuring weather-resistant aluminum frames, UV-treated wicker, and luxurious cushions, Harmonia Living’s designs are both durable and comfortable.
- Summer Classics – Known for comfortable, cushy outdoor sofas and sectionals available in countless durable fabrics and frame finishes, Summer Classics proves style and comfort can co-exist.
- Winston Furniture – Casually elegant wicker furniture made of all-weather resin wicker over aluminum frames distinguishes this brand along with customizable collections.
Shopping Tips for Buying Outdoor Furniture
Follow these top tips when you shop in-person and online for outdoor furniture to score quality pieces at the best value.
- Inspect frames, fabric & cushions closely for quality materials and construction, not just style.
- Test out comfort and ergonomics by sitting in chairs and loungers. Lie down on chaises and sofas.
- Look for fully welded aluminum joints, thick plush cushions and weather-resistant fabric like Sunbrella.
- Choose thick, high-density foam cushions at least 5-6 inches thick for comfort.
- Confirm frames, tabletops, cushions and fabrics come with warranties of 1-5 years for peace of mind.
- Plan to use furniture covers, clean regularly and stash cushions when not in use to get the most longevity.
- Shop off-season clearance sales to score quality pieces at significant discounts to maximize value.
- For online purchases, opt for free shipping when available and easy returns just in case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Furniture (FAQs)
Q: What type of outdoor furniture is the most durable?
A: Teak is widely considered the most durable outdoor furniture material due to its weather, insect, and rot resistance. Quality aluminum and synthetic wicker also offer long-lasting durability. Stainless steel is resistant to rust. Look for durable, weather-resistant construction.
Q: How can I make inexpensive outdoor furniture last longer?
A: Even budget outdoor furniture can last longer with proper care. Always clean and store furniture when not in use. Paint metal to prevent rust. Seal concrete and wood pieces. Choose furniture covers and keep fabric out of standing water or snow.
Q: Should I choose wood, wicker or metal outdoor furniture?
A: All three materials have pros and cons. Wood like teak offers unparalleled longevity while lightweight wicker is affordable and low-maintenance. Durable aluminum resists corrosion and is easy to clean. Choose the aesthetic and qualities most appealing for your needs.
Q: What fabrics work best for outdoor furniture cushions?
A: Performance fabrics like Sunbrella resist fading, are easy to clean and are breathable to allow moisture to evaporate. Polyester blends and woven acrylics made for outdoor use also hold up well compared to cotton and other indoor fabrics.
Q: Can I leave outdoor furniture cushions outside year-round?
A: Cushions left outside year-round will deteriorate more quickly from exposure to moisture, sun and dirt. Storing cushions indoors or using cushion covers when not in use extends cushion life significantly.
Q: What’s the best way to weatherproof outdoor furniture?
A: Teak oil helps seal and protect teak wood while epoxy-based sealers can weatherproof metal frames. Wicker can be hosed off and hand-washed. Use UV protectant spray on cushions after cleaning. Check manufacturer guidelines for the best weatherproofing methods.
Conclusion
Creating an inviting outdoor living space starts with choosing high quality, weather-resistant outdoor furniture tailored to your style, needs and budget. Take the time to evaluate materials, construction, comfort and aesthetics when investing in outdoor furniture you’ll enjoy for seasons to come. Look for durable materials like teak, wicker, aluminum and weather-resistant cushions. Shop end-of-season sales for best value but don’t sacrifice quality for savings. With proper care and maintenance, the best outdoor furniture can provide enjoyment for years on your deck, patio or backyard.