How to Buy Patio Furniture That Lasts

Patio furniture is a key to decorating and enjoying your outdoor living spaces. However, if you have ever owned patio furniture you know that the elements make it difficult to buy patio furniture that will last. Either it decays, mildews, chips, or becomes so dirty and stained no one uses it.

Follow these steps to ensure you buy patio furniture that will endure the elements and be enjoyed for years.

Instructions

1. BECOME FAMILIAR WITH OUTDOOR PATIO MATERIALS.

   - Regular plastic - lightweight, easily moved, won't mold, gathers dirt, and easily blows away.
   - Aluminum - will not mold or mildew, light weight, can be easily bent or dented.
   - Iron - solid, not easily damaged, lasts forever if properly maintained, but will rust if coating is damaged.
   - Wood - subject to mold, mildew, or weathering, often requires refinishing yearly. Teak and cedar are among the more durable and weather resistant natural woods.
   - Recycled plastic-wood - made to look like wood, heavier weight, resists mold, helps recycle used plastic, and does not require refinishing. It is similar to iron in its lasting quality without potential for rust.

   You will have to make the choice as to which material will suit your purposes the best, and last the longest.

2. BE CAREFUL IN CHOOSING ANY CUSHIONED PATIO FURNITURE.

   Make sure that any cushions will not allow water into the cushioning material. Also, check for weather resistant material that can be left out in the sun and rain without fading. You will still need to bring these inside during off seasons and long period without use, however they will last longer.

   Also make sure that your cushions are easily replaceable. They will need replaced after a few years.

3. PURCHASE PATIO FURNITURE THAT IS TREATED AND TREATABLE.

   If you choose to purchase natural wood patio furniture, you will need to retreat it every year. Be sure to understand the treatment requirements. Many patio cushions and patio furniture covers can be treated to increase their mold and mildew resistance. Check into how this is done before writing the check.

4. LOOK FOR DEALS, BUT BUY QUALITY PATIO FURNITURE.

   Everyone wants a deal. However, in patio furniture, you usually get what you pay for to a certain degree. If you want patio furniture that will last, be ready to fork out hundreds of dollars. When you find a brand, style, and material you like find out the retail value. Then check for that particular furniture on discount websites, ebay, Craigslist or in local shops during off season sales.

   See more tips and warnings below.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring your patio furniture inside or under shelter during periods of disuse.

• Pay attention to outdoor furniture at restaurants, golf clubs, and resorts for ideas.

• Ask about product guarantees.

• Avoid buying cushions and furniture that can't be washed.

• Avoid patio furniture that is not guaranteed.

Resources

• eHow Home and Garden Topic Guide