With spring upon us, many people are starting to turn their attention to their outdoor living experience. By adding the right pieces to your outdoor space, you are able to transform your porch or patio into a summertime oasis. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor dining table and chairs or a relaxing set of lounge chairs for you and your best friend to soak up the sunshine, Hickory Furniture Mart has everything you could ever want. But before you start shopping, here is our complete guide to making sure you find the look and feel that truly transforms your outdoor space into a true outdoor experience.
Determine Your Budget
Your first step when investing in new furniture should always be determining your budget. This will keep you from overspending or falling in love with a piece that is not in your budget range. Make sure you leave room for outdoor accessories like outdoor rugs, umbrellas, cushions, and planters to complete the look of your outdoor space.
Measure Your Space
There is nothing worse than buying a new lounge chair that you love, only to get it home and realize it won’t fit in your space. To avoid situations like this, take extensive measurements of your outdoor area beforehand. In doing so, you will be able to not only determine the size, shape and number of pieces you need, but also make sure that everything you purchase fits comfortably. Consider walking the space and entertaining friends when taking your measurements to avoid any overcrowding. Consider drawing your space out on paper. This will allow you to truly conceptualize the space. We also offer a room planner feature on our site to help you lay out each room and space in your home.
Know Your Environment
Because you are not able to control Mother Nature, you will want to make sure you keep in mind your outdoor space’s exposure to the elements. Are you purchasing pieces for a covered patio, or will you need furniture that is going to be exposed to sunlight all day long? Do you live in a climate where rain (or even snow) will be a constant consideration? Take note of these factors to ensure you invest in quality pieces that are professionally weatherproofed in order to extend the life of your outdoor furniture.
Consider the Material of Your Outdoor Furniture
One of the most important aspects of choosing your outdoor furniture is deciding on the material that works best for your space. There are a number of popular materials used in designing outdoor furniture, so you will want to take note of the characteristics and benefits of each.
Wood
Wood is the most classic choice, and has been popular for decades. With options like teak, cedar, eucalyptus, and more, the variety of wood species gives you many styles to choose from. Wood is used most when you want to create a natural and warm look to your space. It’s very durable and resistant to weather. But, keep in mind that in order to maintain that durability, it requires regular maintenance, like oiling and sanding.
Metal
Metal is an extremely durable and long-lasting option that is well-suited for the more harsh weather conditions. Also available in a wide range of materials (aluminum, wrought iron, stainless steel), metal can also be finished in a variety of styles, like powder-coating or anodizing. Some metals are lightweight and easy to move, which is a great option for those with smaller spaces that might need to move around their furniture more often or those living in areas where storms are prevalent and furniture needs to be stored away periodically.
Plastic
The most budget-friendly option for material is plastic. Plastic comes in many colors, shapes and styles. While plastic likely won’t last you for a long time, it is weather-resistant and low maintenance, making it perfect for those needing a no-fuss, temporary solution.
Wicker
A timeless classic, wicker is made from woven synthetic or natural fibers, like rattan or bamboo. It is one of the most lightweight options, which allows for versatility in your space, and is incredibly easy to store in cooler months. This material is another low-maintenance options that still offers character and style. However, keep in mind that if you live in an area with lots of pollen, wicker may not be the best option as it will require additional cleaning during each pollen season.
Concrete
Concrete is another material that is perfect for harsher climates and outdoor weather conditions with its extreme durability. Available in many colors and styles, concrete does not have to be boring or color-less – instead, it can provide a very modern and stylish look to your outdoor area. Its heavy weight makes it perfect for windy climates or balconies and rooftop spaces.
Check for Warranty and Maintenance
As mentioned, a number of styles and materials will require a certain level of maintenance to ensure their durability and pleasant aesthetic over time. Keep this in mind when shopping, and consider how much time you are willing to invest into maintaining your outdoor furniture.
And don’t forget to ask if a warranty is offered on your outdoor furniture. Some manufacturers will offer warranties that cover your furniture for a specific period of time after purchasing it, while others will require that you personally maintain your furniture to ensure its longevity.
Ready to get started? Our team at Hickory Furniture Mart is ready to help you build that perfect outdoor space just in time for summer. Showrooms currently offering outdoor furniture are Amish Oak & Cherry, Good’s Home Furnishings, Hickory Park Furniture, and Southern Heritage Home.