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| Be sure to measure and try before you buy! |
The right furniture is the difference between having an outdoor living space and using it. The many available choices can make selection an intimidating process. Think of your deck or patio as an extension of your home and the process gets easier. A wildly colorful Caribbean-inspired outdoor room sounds like a fun idea, but if your style is really more on the traditional and serene side, wild and colorful probably won’t stand the test of time. Check out the following tips for even more advice about choosing the right outdoor furniture.
Measure Twice, Buy Once
You may have your heart set on that huge, luxurious outdoor sectional, but will it actually fit on your deck or patio? Consider traffic flow and safety in outdoor furniture placement just as you would indoors. Furniture should not block doorways or exits, and it should not be placed perilously close the un-railed edges or stairways. Once those limitations are factored in, you may have much less room for furniture than you realize. Store displays can look larger or smaller than they actually are, so take measurements with you when shopping.
What’s the Weather?
Lightweight aluminum is not an ideal choice for windy areas. High temperatures and dry air can make wood or wicker furniture crack and splinter. Too much moisture increases the chance of mold and mildew ruining upholstered cushions. Weather matters! Occasional rain or heat is normal, but do think about the challenges your environment may present before making a purchase.
Location, Location...
Nearly every type of outdoor furniture is well-suited for a deck or smooth concrete patio, but if you’re placing items on the lawn, directly onto bare soil or on pavers, take extra care to choose pieces that will do well in that location. Some wooden furniture can rot if placed on grass, moisture from the ground may cause corrosion on metal, and the small feet of a chair with graceful legs can get stuck in the spaces between stones or bricks. And even the most comfortable furniture in the world won’t be used if it’s placed in the blazing sun without any shade. Balance your personal tastes with shapes and materials that will function where you want to use them.
Sit Down and Relax
Buying Online is so simple, but it’s not always the best way to find furniture that you and your family will feel comfortable in. Go to more than one showroom, and try furniture in different styles and price points to get a better sense of what feels good. No matter how big or small your budget, you don’t want to end up with outdoor furniture that makes your back hurt after 10 minutes! Once you know the brands and item numbers of the pieces you like, you can comparison shop to find the best deals.
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