MasterPlan Outdoor Living
Tips For Selecting Outdoor Furniture
Posted July 27, 2023 in Blog, Design/Build, Furniture, General, Hardware, outdoor design, Outdoor Living Room, Videos
Before selecting outdoor furniture, be sure to consider the specific outdoor environment and choose furniture with suitable materials, durability, aesthetics, maintenance, and performance. Factors like your geographical location and placement need to be considered, as different materials have varying resilience to weather conditions.
Maneuverability and weight should also be taken into account when selecting the best outdoor furniture. Since understanding the fundamental materials used in outdoor furniture will help you make informed decisions, here’s a list of the most common outdoor furniture materials:
- Plastic furniture: Is often the most affordable option, but there are drawbacks to consider. While it is lightweight and can be made from recyclable materials, plastic furniture tends to have a less appealing look and shorter lifespan. Flimsy plastic chairs and tables are prone to breakage, drying out, and fading when exposed to sunlight. Additionally, this material is easily scratched and can show signs of aging quickly. Although there are higher quality options available that are more resistant to stains, mildew, and chipping, even these pieces may not withstand strong winds. If a sudden summer storm arises, you’ll find yourself scrambling to gather your furniture before it gets blown away or causes any damage.
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- Cast aluminum: Is an excellent choice for outdoor furniture due to its lightweight nature, durability, and surprising strength. It is particularly well-suited for contemporary spaces and offers protection against rust and moisture damage through its powder coating.
Dining sets benefit from the use of cast aluminum as the chairs can be easily moved in and out while still providing ample support and comfort. But, it is important to note that there are different investment levels available for aluminum furniture, with heavier-grade options offering enhanced durability.
- Wrought iron: Is a timeless and elegant material that has long been used for outdoor furniture because it is best suited for formal or classic settings, as it adds a touch of sophistication to any space. One of the main advantages of wrought iron is its durability and strength, making it capable of withstanding any weather conditions throughout the year. However, older wrought iron may require regular treatment with rust protection or paint to prevent corrosion. On the other hand, newer wrought iron pieces are often pre-treated with a weather-resistant layer that helps protect against moisture, rust, and corrosion. While this material may not be the most comfortable to sit on, it is perfect for unique spaces or hidden garden nooks. If you plan on using wrought iron furniture for functional purposes rather than just decoration, we recommend using weatherproof cushions for added comfort and to minimize sun exposure on the metal surface as it can become hot if left out in the sun.
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- Wood: When it comes to outdoor furniture, the allure of wood furniture lies in its natural beauty and aesthetic appeal. However, it’s important to understand that not all wood is the same. Softwoods like pine, cedar, and fir offer some level of resilience against weather conditions but will gradually age and develop a greyish hue if left untreated. On the other hand, choosing pressure-treated pine or other softwoods can provide approximately 20 years of outdoor durability with minimal protection against water damage and decay. While hardwood furniture may require a higher initial investment, it’s worth considering that not only will your set exude elegance and sophistication, but the hardwoods themselves are engineered to withstand a lifetime of use. We highly recommend teak when it comes to wood furniture. Exceptionally strong and durable, teak can last for generations in a wide variety of climates with zero to little maintenance. The high rubber and oil content of teak wood leaves it impervious to rain, weather, and pests, making it virtually immune to rot.
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Are you looking to build a new outdoor kitchen in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania to enjoy a summer of meals outside, remodel and renovate your existing pool in Allentown, Pennsylvania so your grandkids can enjoy it all summer, or build a custom outdoor living space that will create lasting memories? If so, then look no further. Because we understand the importance of getting value for your investment and don’t want you to have the hassle of coordinating with multiple crews or dealing with complicated plans, permits, or approvals. That’s why we are proud to partner with homeowners in the Lehigh Valley to help them avoid wasting time, money, and space when it comes to transforming their backyard into a custom outdoor living space.
Our award-winning design/build process ensures that all engineering, project management, contractor scheduling, inspections, permit applications, and other essential details for your new custom outdoor living space in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania are taken care of for you by experienced, reliable, & trustworthy professionals. You’ll never have to worry about communicating with your HOA or township either. So relax and watch your dream outdoor living space come alive as we handle all of the heavy lifting so that you can focus on planning how you will enjoy your new custom outdoor living space.
Here’s how you can get started today:
Call: Schedule your meeting!
Collaborate: Create your perfect plan!
Construction: With an approved design, construction starts!
Celebrate: Raise a toast to your transformed home and the new life that comes from it!
CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR DESIGN MEETING!
(610) 628-2480
If you’re considering a custom outdoor living space, we have the perfect resource for you. For a limited time, download an exclusive copy of “Your Guide to Building a Custom Outdoor Living Space,” and rest easy knowing you’re making the right investment in your home. With this tool, you can stop worrying and start creating the custom outdoor living space of your dreams today!
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