What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in AK
Do you have a deck, porch, patio, sun room or pool? If you do, you’ve probably spent time considering what kind of outdoor furniture is best suited for the exterior of your Alaska home. The right furniture can make your outdoor space a truly livable extension of the interior and increase the value of your property.
Learn how to choose the best outdoor furniture – what to consider before buying, which materials work best for outdoor furniture in Alaska, the different different kinds of furnishings and more.
What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in Alaska
Climate – The climate and the weather in Alaska should be one of the top factors affecting which outdoor furniture you ultimately buy. Do you get extremely high or low temperature during the summer and winter months? Is there very little or an abundance of rain throughout the year? Do you have a lot of pollen in the air where you reside in AK?
These are the sort of questions you need to contemplate before you purchase outdoor furniture for your Alaska home.
Your outdoor space – Your outdoor space will determine what sort of outdoor furniture is appropriate. The dimensions of the space is, needless to say, the top concern and can limit the type of outdoor furniture you ultimately get. Be sure that the furniture isn’t so big that it dominates the space.
Also keep in mind whether it is a covered, open area or both. If there's a fire pit or pond account for this in your planning and don’t crowd those areas.
Purpose of the outdoor furniture – What's your outdoor space used for? How will the the outdoor furniture be utilized in the space? Some people use their outdoor space primarily for entertaining while others use it for quiet relaxation. The outdoor furniture that you choose can add to the atmosphere and functionality so don’t buy prior to deciding what you actually want to use your outdoor area for most.
Price range – You might be surprised at how expensive some outdoor furniture can get. Set a budget beforehand and follow it. Prioritize which pieces are most important, remember you can always get the additional pieces at a later date, and if you wait for the fall and winter season you could find outdoor furniture for bargain prices.
Best Materials for Outdoor Furniture in Alaska
Woods – Wood, being a natural material, is a superb selection for outdoor furniture in Alaska because it weathers well. Teak is a popular choice because it is very strong, although it is more expensive than other options. Cedar is also a popular choice for outdoor furniture.
Fabrics – If you are purchasing cushions, umbrellas or table covers be sure that they are made with outdoor fabric. These fabrics are fade resistant, mildew resistant, waterproof and typically sturdier than fabrics used for indoor furniture, linens and clothing. Typical outdoor fabrics include polyester, acrylic, polyester-cotton blends and other synthetic fibers.
Metals – Metals aren’t always the best option for outdoor furniture in Alaska, particularly if the furniture is going to be fully exposed to the elements. Metals will rust and become brittle out in the rain and sun if they aren’t treated. If you would like to go with metal frames aluminum is a good choice because it doesn’t rust, is light-weight and still durable.
Plastic – It might not sound like the most aesthetic option but plastic offers a lot of variety, it’s affordable and it’s very weather resistant. Opt for hard plastic resin materials if you choose this material.
Types of Outdoor Furniture for Your Alaska Home
When you are looking for outdoor furniture there’s something to fit everyone’s tastes and needs. Below are just a couple types of outdoor furniture that will make your Alaska home more appealing and functional.
- Swings
- Loungers
- Umbrellas
- Table sets
- Adirondacks
- Benches
- Gliders