When it comes to outdoor furniture, it's a good idea to go with something that doesn't require constant upkeep. There are usually more than enough other patio chores to be done without having to worry about treating wood furniture or other high maintenance items.
The ideal patio furniture can be left out during just about any kind of weather and doesn't rust or rot from moisture. It should also be available in the look you want and add to the ambiance of your deck without making the place look cheap. There are several options that fit this profile.
Aluminum
This is a very lightweight metal that has been used for years as the base of patio furniture. While you may be imagining those hollow tube lounge chairs that are laced with plastic lacing, aluminum has come a long way. These days, it is available in more sophisticated designs that are easy to move and maintain.
Plastic
While plastic never really looks high class, there are definitely some nice sets of plastic patio furniture out there. Plastic tends to be more fragile than metal options, however, so if you do decide to go this route, be sure to choose nice sturdy furniture.
Plastic resists rain, but it can't be left out in freezing weather, so it will need to be brought inside during the winter. Fortunately, most patio furniture of this type stacks very well for storage. It's also very easy to wipe clean and usually doesn't stain.
Wrought Iron
For a truly low maintenance material for patio furniture, nothing beats wrought iron. It's strong, beautiful and requires nothing but the occasional cleaning. It can be left outside all year round without ill effect, too, meaning there is no lugging furniture around and trying to find a place to store it during the winter.
Wrought iron is also crafted into some very nice furniture and comes in several colors, with black being the most common. It is extremely easy to clean, as well.
Teak
Most wood isn't appropriate for year round outdoor use, but teak is a rare find. You'll pay more for it, but it's well worth the investment. This is a wood with a protective oil that helps keep the wood in excellent condition, no matter what the weather. It was originally used on ship decks, since it would withstand any element and once the ships were torn down, the teak was in such great condition that it could still be reused as furniture.
If you just don't like the look of metal or want something softer, teak is an excellent choice. It has also been successfully combined with wrought iron to create some truly beautiful furniture that is still amazingly low maintenance.
Fabric
If you choose to go with one of these materials for your patio furniture, you have the option of adding cushions to make the furniture a bit more comfortable. Cushions require a bit more care, so many people opt not to use them with their outdoor furniture.
However, there are some cushions that are actually quite low maintenance and can help you sit more comfortably on metal chairs. These cushions will need to be brought inside during winter, but you can get ones that have been sealed, or seal the fabric yourself with a spray and they will resist most rain and won't mold like other fabric left outside.
Choosing the best outdoor furniture for your patio might take a little time, but in the end it will be worth it. You'll have furniture that can withstand the elements and requires nothing apart from the occasional wiping to get rid of dust and fallen leaves. Low maintenance patio furniture is the best way to go. |
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