Patios are meant for relaxing and enjoying beach homes, so choose furniture that can withstand the elements. Ideal patio furniture should be designed to withstand intense heat, strong winds, and rain without damage or degradation.
Many designers advise storing or covering cushions and furnishings when not in use to prevent moisture absorption, which leads to mildew growth. Unfortunately, this can be time-consuming.
Cast aluminum
When purchasing outdoor furniture, there are various materials from which you can choose when shopping for patio sets. Options range from rattan and wrought iron pieces, wood pieces and even polymers like HDPE (High Density Polyethylene). One material which stands out for durability and style is cast aluminum – one of your best bets when it comes to durability and style!
Cast aluminum furniture stands out from other metal options with its ability to rust. This is an especially beneficial feature if you live in humid climates; marine fog and salt water from the ocean can wreak havoc on other forms of outdoor furniture, yet cast aluminum remains resistant. Plus, cast aluminum’s lack of corrosion means less likely break-down over time compared to buying pieces made out of wrought iron or steel furniture pieces.
Cast aluminum furniture is popularly chosen because its maintenance requirements are relatively minimal. Simply spray down with water from a hose and wipe with cloth regularly will keep it looking its best. Repainting it may also be possible; for more information regarding how best to do this, consult the manufacturer of your set for recommendations for touch-up paint that matches its original hue.
As opposed to cast aluminum patio furniture, wrought iron patio furniture may only need occasional brushing with a stiff bristled brush and wiping with a cloth; the difference in maintenance requirements may not be as significant. Wrought iron is heavier than cast aluminum so may not be suitable for those who like rearranging their seating frequently.
Cast aluminum offers another advantage: it can be designed in various forms. From extravagant, waving Tropitone Butterfly lounge chairs to more modern silhouettes like Hanamint Windward collection chairs, there is sure to be a cast aluminum patio furniture set that meets your tastes – including sets that combine extruded and cast pieces such as Hanamint’s chairs featuring lightweight extruded legs/arms/seat/back pieces for additional strength.
Cushions
Nothing says relaxation like cozy outdoor furniture seat cushions. If your patio set doesn’t include them already, or has worn-out seats with torn or faded cushions that no longer provide adequate support, replacement cushions can make your seating experience more relaxing – not to mention increase its style and appearance! With options ranging in sizes, shapes, fabrics and styles suited to suit all decors you are sure to find the ideal cushion solution to complete the experience.
Your choice of cushion can have an enormous effect on its appearance, comfort, and durability. When selecting the ideal option for you it is essential to consider its size as well as whether or not you would prefer solid foam or poly fiber fill. You also have various edges from squared-off front corners to standard rounded back corners available to choose from.
Solid foam cushions offer firm support with lasting shape retention. Furthermore, they’re better at resisting mold and mildew than fabric-covered pillows; you could fill one with polyester fiber batting for increased softness or both foam and cotton batting for increased warmth and softness.
Synthetic Texteline filling material, composed of polyester yarns coated in PVC and water-repellant, may also make for good cushion fill. Unfortunately, however, its drawbacks include becoming extremely hot in direct sunlight and losing color more rapidly than other materials – therefore making it suitable for cushions situated in shaded areas of your yard.
Sunbrella fabric is an attractive option for cushion fabric because of its fade resistance, 100% waterproof nature and ability to resist mold and mildew growth. Plus it’s simple to keep clean. However, Sunbrella’s expense and lengthy production timeline makes it less attractive.
Invest in cotton canvas seat cushions dyed to fit with your decor for cost-cutting and comfortable seating, yet durable and fade-resistant. Unfortunately, their drawback lies in their moisture absorption capabilities which could result in mold or mildew growth if stored improperly; you can extend their lives and continue enjoying them longer this way.
Fire pits
An outdoor fire pit can become the centerpiece of any patio, providing warmth on cold nights while creating an intimate setting where friends and family can gather for relaxation and conversation. Choose between traditional gas-fueled fire pits or sleek electric models; any fire pit will add drama to any deck space.
Before purchasing an outdoor heater or fire feature, be sure to verify local codes as it could violate them. A tabletop version works great in small spaces while larger units provide heat throughout an entire outdoor seating area while acting as an additional coffee or side table.
There is an array of fire pit options to choose from, and it should fit both your taste and budget. Stainless steel makes an excellent low-maintenance choice, available in black, bronze and copper hues and resistant to rusting. Another popular material option is wrought iron which boasts intricate details that create an elegant classic aesthetic and has been used in outdoor furniture for centuries – ideal for creating traditional looks in outdoor settings.
Aluminum furniture remains an affordable solution if your budget is limited, offering both water and rust resistance as well as being lightweight enough to move around your patio easily. Plus, with so many attractive finishes to choose from, there’s sure to be one perfect for matching with existing furniture pieces!
If you prefer more contemporary design, concrete fire pits are an excellent choice. Their durable material requires minimal upkeep, can withstand extreme temperatures, can be painted or left natural; simply seal it regularly against rain and other weather conditions.
Decorative accents
An abundance of decorative accents can turn any patio into an inviting spot to unwind and pass away the hours. Keep your space organized and tidy with stylish shelves holding patio essentials, or turn your backyard fence into a pretty backdrop for potted plants. Illuminate the area with paper lanterns or candlelight to set off the tranquil scene in your backyard oasis. Choose a chic woven stool as extra seating or add simple planters for table arrangements – add bird feeders to attract feathered friends as well as wind chimes hanging from trees can all make your space feel cozy and relaxing – add bird feeders & wind chimes in order to sway with breeze!
Bold colors can make a dramatic statement in your patio decor, without going overboard. Leanne Ford Interiors created this modern patio featuring modern white furniture offset by technicolor throw pillows in technicolor tones for an eye-catching combination. Alternatively, for something less dramatic try pairing neutral hues with wood accents and earthy tones for a timeless yet contemporary aesthetic.
Bright blues and yellows can bring both peace and fun to any patio setup. Pair brown or natural teak furniture with buttery yellow or soft denim blue cushion covers or pillow cases; adding indigo or sapphire throw pillows on your sofa set can amplify their brilliance further.
When looking to add something special to your patio, outdoor twinkle lights may add an enchanting effect. These inexpensive decorative accessories add just the right amount of ambience during evening parties; string them above a fire pit for extra ambiance or use a row as part of an after-dinner gathering space.
Make the most of your patio with outdoor wall art, plant stands and other functional pieces such as clocks or address signs to add visual interest and functional accents that elevate its design. A practical addition for a porch or balcony might be a clock. Meanwhile, an address sign is ideal for identifying your home from the street. A water fountain or sculpture makes an eye-catching focal point that combines form and function while decorative bird feeders add interest without needing maintenance.