Patio Furniture Buying Guide
From rattan to teak to wrought iron, the many types and designs of patio chairs, patio tables and accessories — like chair cushions, umbrellas, pergolas and more — make it easy to find stylish outdoor furnishings. Find comfortable furniture for any outdoor occasion or outdoor décor style.
Things to Consider When Buying Outdoor Furniture
- Is the furniture appropriately scaled to the outdoor area where it’ll be used? A small deck or backyard patio can be dwarfed by large furniture groupings. Conversely, a spacious deck looks best with a larger grouping.
- Will the outdoor patio furniture seat the required number of people? Consider outdoor dining, conversation and who’ll typically use the furniture. Keep in mind that stackable metal or resin chairs are stored in a small space, ready for when you need more outdoor seating.
- Do the styles and colors of the furniture blend with your home? Treat the outdoor space of your deck or patio as you would any other room in your home when decorating. Outdoor furniture is available in many styles, from coastal to modern. Choose from cushions with colors as vivid or subdued as you like.
Frame Construction
Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant. Durable and tough, aluminum can withstand wear and tear. Finishes adhere well to aluminum, which is important when you consider your outdoor furniture may be exposed to moisture and harsh weather. There are plenty of colors and finish options available.
Steel is heavier and stronger than aluminum but not as heavy as iron. Steel-framed furniture is quite durable.
Iron is the strongest and heaviest of all metal patio furniture and certainly won’t blow away. Iron chair frames require cushions for comfort. Since wrought iron is rust-resistant rather than rust free, it may need occasional paint touch-ups.
Wicker is suitable for indoor or outdoor use, making it a great choice for sunrooms, porches, decks or patios. Outdoor wicker furniture works best with cushions.
Furniture Sets
You can find several types of patio table and chair sets, as well as sets containing couches and loveseats, allowing you to easily create an inviting area for relaxed dining or conversation.
Bistro sets are ideal patio furniture for small spaces (a balcony, a small patio at an apartment or a breakfast nook) and are available in most materials. Go with a wrought-iron set for a classic look or a cushioned set for added comfort. Bistro sets come in standard and balcony-height options and can be dressed up with decorative seat cushions.
Dining sets for the patio are the way to go for enjoying meals outdoors, and you can find them in groupings of five to 11 pieces. If you only need a large dining table occasionally, look for a set with an extendable table. Wooden or cushioned chairs give your patio the same comfort as a dining room.
Conversation sets provide the comfort of a living room outdoors. Adding a pair of conversation chairs with ottomans and an accent table creates a nice sitting area for a front or back porch. If you have a large family, look for a set with a couch and coffee table so everyone has room to spread out. Modular sets can be grouped into different configurations depending on the occasion.
Patio Chairs and Other Seating
Swivel rockers and cushioned patio chairs are two popular seating options, and they can double as dining chairs. You can also find outdoor recliners, hammock chairs and patio egg chairs.
Caned and woven seat options are comfortable with or without a cushion and work great in pairs with a small accent table. Chairs are available with high, mid or low backs. If you want extra support or just a pop of color, decorative cushions are available for all chair types.
Additional seating pieces have gone beyond the traditional chaise lounges to include benches, daybeds, gliders, swings and garden stools. Collections offer chairs with matching ottomans, patio loveseats and outdoor sofas, providing all the comforts of indoor furniture. For the ultimate in relaxation, treat yourself to a hammock.
Patio Tables
While you can find tables in patio sets, you can also buy them individually to create a custom dining or conversation area that works for your space. Table tops come in glass, tile, wood or metal options, so you can pick the surface that best meets your needs. In addition to dining tables, you can find stand-alone bar-height tables, coffee tables and end tables. A patio table with an umbrella hole is a must if you plan to add shade. Want to enjoy on cool spring or fall evenings? Look for a fire table to keep your patio cozy.
Pergolas and Gazebos
Pergolas and gazebos are great additions if you want covered areas for your outdoor space. Pergolas have slatted, louver-style timbers to filter sunlight and provide ventilation. Often used for partial shade in pathways, gardens and patio areas, pergolas can be freestanding, anchored or wall mounted. You can also use them with or without a pergola cover for additional shade. Check out our pergola ideas to see different styles and placements.
Gazebos are ideal for large seating areas in a yard. Hard-top gazebos are primarily made from wood, metal or vinyl and provide greater sun protection than pergolas. Soft-top gazebos also provide sun protection and are less expensive than hard-top gazebos, but they’re a more temporary option since they have lighter frames and can be moved. Grill gazebos are a nice option to cover and protect outdoor cooking areas from sun and weather.
Umbrellas, Pergolas and Other Accessories
Umbrellas, canopies, pergolas and gazebos create a dynamic look and give you a break from the summer heat, whether you’re relaxing or enjoying patio dining. Pair coordinating tables and umbrellas to round out your patio or deck ensemble. Dining and side tables come in a variety of materials (glass, tile, wood or metal) so you can easily find the best option. Don’t forget rugs, outdoor heating, such as fire pits, and an unlimited variety of outdoor décor accessories to create the ultimate outdoor living space.
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