Four Essential Factors You Should Take Into Consideration While Buying Outdoor Furniture

Photo Courtesy: Winston Furniture

You know what they say about how you value something only when it’s gone or in the process of it. Yeah, now that same thing has become the truth for outdoor spaces and nature as we know it. A lot of people have come to appreciate nature – be it the humble backyard or the sprawling lawns or just the golden rays of sun hitting our faces.

This has led to a marked trend in residential decks and porches. So much so that, it’s become a luxury every single person dreams to have in their home. Add to that the unmatchable curb appeal, and you have the most irresistible prospect on your hands. Now, every porch, deck or plain outdoor space needs some furniture, if you want it to serve some purpose. But, before you buy the latest styles and the top of the shelf products, you might want to give these four important factors some consideration.

1) Space

Part of a garden area, seen in the English summertime, in Six Ashes, Shropshire, England – Photo Courtesy: Lee Haywood

Space helps you decide just how much you need and how far you should go on decking up the outdoors. Too much furniture and you turn your porch into a dingy marketplace, one that is impossible to maneuver. Too little furniture and your outdoors look like a page from Lilliput. Always keep the traffic in mind, before you decide the size and placement. Smaller spaces should call for nothing beyond a bar table and few stools. A little coffee table with cozy chairs does the trick too. Anything more, and you turn your outdoor into a claustrophobic’s nightmare, right in the open!

2) Weather

Photo Courtesy: Dan4th Nicholas

Weather is something that can make or break the look of your outdoors. It also plays a massive role in deciding what material of furniture you choose. For areas where the weather is constantly shuttling between strongly sunny and heavily windy, wood is a bad idea. The smartest choice is to go for something that remains durable in all weathers. Plastic and aluminum form good and pocket-friendly choices here. However, if you’re feeling a little rich, you can always go for teak furniture. That thing is near invincible. Consult with a professional or someone who knows about outdoor furniture in order to save you from a decision that’s nothing but a royal waste of money.

3) Purpose

Photo Courtesy: Dinner Series

The purpose helps you define the theme, or the flow of design. This in turn helps you focus on the finer details like the color, fitting, positioning etc. Do you want your deck or backyard to represent a more formal setting? Or is it just for the family to gather round and have a laugh over food and drinks? You also need to consider the amount of time and energy you’re willing to invest in furniture maintenance.

4) Budget

At the end of the day, this is what it all boils down to. The cost will decide what you can afford and what you should stay miles away from. Setting the budget requires a good measure of research and planning. It helps you finalize the material and style of furniture, the accessories, and the like. If you intend to save money, always keep an eye on the holiday season; that’s when the sales are out, with to-die-for prices. And don’t forget to negotiate and bargain, always, at every chance you get. You can also take a trip to the flea market and the yard sale; they do have hidden treasures that manage to baffle even the greatest skeptic.

To be honest, you don’t need a stroke of genius to pull off an amazing outdoor area. Just a little research, smartness and patience are all you need.

John Williams is a frequent blogger who writes for Timber Living Outdoors which deals in furniture for outdoor settings. His hobbies include bowling and fishing.