DecmBlog

The characteristics of good patio furniture are recognized in the various materials the furniture is fashioned from.

Good patio furniture is a pride to own and a pleasure to use. Whether it is serving the function of day to day use for recreational purposes or serves as an alternate eating or lounging area for guests in a public establishment such as a restaurant or hotel, good patio furniture can be fashioned in timeless styles and made of durable materials that last for years and years.

The characteristics of good patio furniture are directly related to the type of materials used to create it and the usefulness it provides. The various kinds of patio furniture materials include wood, wrought iron, wicker, recycled plastic, mosaics and aluminum.

WOOD
The basic types of wood used to make patio furniture include:

• Brazilian Cherry - heavy duty, high quality, durable, small grain that is perfect for outdoor use.

? Cedar - naturally weather resistant and a beautiful reddish brown or gray color, works well for both outdoor and indoor furniture.
? Cypress - contains natural oils that resist rot and insects, is warp resistant and is best for outdoor use. Can be left natural or stained with an acrylic.
? Knotted pine - resists insects, weather and decay, looks naturally beautiful for outdoor use when stained, particularly with natural knots exposed but must be stained regularly.
? Teak - considered the most popular outdoor use material, it’s fine grain can last for up to 75 years if used natural without a finish.

WROUGHT IRON

• Low maintenance, works great indoors or outdoors.
• Rust resistant surfaces display hand crafted quality for years.
• Sturdy construction is weather resistant and comes in a variety of decorative styles

WICKER

• Comes in varying qualities, the best of which lacks shredded fibers, has a lustrous appearance and is smooth to the touch.
• Usually comes with cushions which are necessarily comfortable.
• Does not withstand rain, dew or moisture and can become warped or damaged.
• Should not be left in prolonged sun or can experience fading and material deterioration.
• Is easily maintained by wiping down furniture with a damp cloth.
• Great for indoor and properly protected outdoor use.

RECYCLED PLASTIC

• No stain or finishing required.
• Durable all weather material is environmentally friendly.
• Stylish with no maintenance required.
• Easily cleaned with a damp cloth.
• Works great for both indoors and outdoors.

MOSAICS

• Most commonly recognized as marble, concrete and stone.
• Heavy construction makes for permanent furniture, limiting style changes.
• Finished tile designs are maintenance free and weather resistant.
• Can be costly to install but last a lifetime.