Good porch furniture should be designed to withstand the elements, including sun and rain. Look for pieces that can resist UV rays and moisture build-up, or can easily be cleaned with soap and water.
Choose lounge chairs, stools and benches that align with your design objectives and aesthetic. Search for pieces made of weatherproof metals and finishes that can withstand outdoor conditions while being easily cleaned with mild soap and water solutions.
Synthetic Resin Wicker
The best wicker porch furniture is constructed of synthetic resin, as it does not absorb moisture like natural materials such as bamboo and rattan do. This helps prevent mildew and mold growth from damaging natural fiber furniture quickly; in addition, fading may not occur as often with synthetic resin furniture.
Synthetic wicker furniture is easy to keep looking its best over time with just a quick rinse of water – all it takes to eliminate dirt, mildew and stains is to simply give a good quality set a good rinsing. A good quality set also weighs less and can easily be moved around for use in large outdoor spaces and patios, and offers various colors and styles that complement any decor scheme.
Tortuga Outdoor offers the Valencia collection for high quality resin wicker sets at an excellent value. Handwoven from all-weather resin wicker in driftwood frame color that complements any decor, this dining table comfortably seats six and requires minimal upkeep and maintenance.
Be mindful that not all resin wicker furniture is equal. Some big box stores sell knocked-down wicker pieces assembled using nuts and bolts with no structural integrity whatsoever. When searching for manufacturers that produce top-grade resin that has been thoroughly tested to withstand sunlight fading effects, quality resin should always take priority over plastic additives that may fade quickly over time.
Location should also be taken into consideration, since extreme hot temperatures can shorten the life of wicker sets and salt air can deteriorate resin furniture over time, which can be avoided by applying waterproof sealer on it. Finally, be sure to purchase aluminum frames instead of steel which can rust.
Rattan
Many people, including salespersons who sell furniture, use the terms rattan and wicker interchangeably; however, there is an important distinction between the two materials: rattan is a type of material while wicker refers to weaving styles.
Rattan is an organic material and close relative of palm trees that grows abundantly throughout Southeast Asian rainforests. It can be easily transformed into furniture by shaping or weaving it, while dyed colors may also be chosen. Furthermore, its lightweight nature makes it easier for moving or arranging purposes while its long lasting qualities ensure its long term use.
Furniture made of rattan is an attractive addition to any home, adding exotic charm that fits with various design styles ranging from shabby chic to boho-style. Additionally, rattan can add warmth and relaxation to modern or classic spaces while pairing well with plants and natural materials such as wood.
Rattan furniture can be transformed into nearly any piece of furniture you can think of – dining tables and chairs to coffee tables and sofas. Furthermore, its versatility allows it to withstand sunlight and rain as it has excellent resistance properties.
Not to forget is that natural rattan will fade when exposed to direct sunlight; thus most rattan furniture is designed for indoor use only. You can prevent this by applying regular coats of boiled linseed oil on the furniture itself.
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron is a relatively soft type of metal that’s stronger than steel but less brittle than cast iron. Created through smelting, which involves heating and melting metal ore, it softens with heat making it easy to work into intricate designs. Wrought iron contains less carbon than cast iron for an easier forming experience as well as being more malleable.
Wrought iron furniture traditionally consisted of pieces of metal being hand forged and welded together by skilled artisans, which was an expensive process requiring much labor. As industrialization advanced, however, this method became less prevalent; today only older antiques and specialty furniture made by skilled artisans remain.
Wrought iron chaise lounges are an elegant choice of outdoor furniture that create a luxury resort-style seating experience in your backyard. Add one near the pool or beneath a pergola as a shady spot where you can unwind with a good book and cool drink of lemonade.
When shopping for wrought iron patio furniture, look for modern features such as sleek silhouettes and simplistic details with a clean black finish. Additionally, ensure that it features anti-rust protection made for outdoor use.
Wrought iron furniture has a timeless aesthetic, often featuring midnight black as its primary hue. However, its versatile material comes in various finishes such as glossy silver and matte bronze to complete its aesthetics. To preserve its look and preserve it from corrosion by regularly cleaning and painting it. Spray down your furniture with degreasers or solvents before rinsing and drying before priming its surface with exterior-grade paint that contains an antirust inhibitor before painting again with exterior grade paint with antirust properties.
Aluminum
Aluminum is an excellent material to choose if you want something durable that won’t rust easily, such as outdoor furniture. It withstands harsh weather elements well while needing minimal upkeep – often just wiping it down with damp cloth will do. Plus, aluminum doesn’t corrode rust like other metals do! It makes an excellent choice for coastal climates as well.
Hollow or tubular aluminum furniture is lighter and less costly than its cast counterpart, yet still offers more style options while withstanding most weather conditions. Plus, its highly customizable finish options enable you to craft an aesthetic that’s uniquely your own!
Commercial-grade powder-coated aluminum is an indestructible metal that won’t rust, making it the ideal material for outdoor furniture. Aluminum is one of the most recycled materials out there – in fact 75% of it produced is still being recycled today! Plus it is one of the lightest metals out there making aluminum patio furniture easy to move as the sun moves across the sky or for hosting guests for an informal backyard barbeque.
As you decorate with aluminum, be sure to incorporate other textures such as woven baskets, terra-cotta pots filled with plants and flowers, topiary trees or throw pillows of different colors into your decor for added visual interest. Don’t be intimidated by breaking the design rules when decorating with aluminum; there’s plenty of room for bold geometric rugs or eclectic combinations of patterns as long as mildew-resistant fabrics are chosen for outdoor spaces.
Wood
Wood porch furniture is an iconic choice, offering sturdy construction with plenty of styles. Natural wood can also be stained or painted in various hues to suit your color scheme and aesthetic preferences. When selecting the wood for your furniture pieces, be sure to select pieces such as acacia or teak that can withstand weather elements on an ongoing basis – both resist rot, insect damage and sun and wind exposure while developing an exquisite patina of silver-gray patina that lends sophisticated timeless looks.
Acacia and eucalyptus furniture is comparable to teak in terms of hardiness, but often less costly. Over time, both will weather to a light grey or silvery brown that resembles teak’s appearance – although these alternatives may not withstand as much rain or sleet as teak does.
Adirondack chairs are timeless front porch staples. To update and refresh them, give them a coat of exterior paint in an inviting shade like sugar-plum. Or add an unexpected twist by stenciling simple games (such as tic-tac-toe) on one side of their frame to transform one into an instant game board!
Wood swings or gliders add classic charm to any porch, especially in larger areas. To make the porch seem as an extension of your home and create an inviting environment for guests. If your swing has chains or ropes attached to it, consider replacing it with marine-grade braided nylon or polyester to reduce risk of splinters or damage caused by weather elements.