What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in AZ
Do you have a deck, porch, patio, sun room or pool? If so, you’ve probably spent time thinking about what kind of outdoor furniture is best suited for the outside of your Arizona home. The fitting furniture can make your outdoor space a truly livable extension of the interior and increase the value of your property.
Learn how to decide on the best outdoor furniture – what to consider before buying, which materials work best for outdoor furniture in Arizona, the different varieties of furnishings and more.
What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in Arizona
Climate – The climate and the weather in Arizona 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 hardly any or an abundance of rain throughout the year? Do you have a lot of pollen in the air where you live in AZ?
These are the sort of questions you need to contemplate before buying outdoor furniture for your Arizona home.
Your outdoor space – Your outdoor space will determine what kind of outdoor furniture is appropriate. The size of the space is, obviously, the top concern and can limit the sort of outdoor furniture you ultimately get. Make sure that the furniture isn’t so big that it dominates the space.
Also take into account whether it's 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 is 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 before deciding what you really want to use your outdoor area for the 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 it's possible to get the additional pieces down the road, and if you wait for the fall and winter season you could find outdoor furniture for bargain prices.
Best Materials for Outdoor Furniture in Arizona
Woods – Wood, being a natural material, is an excellent selection for outdoor furniture in Arizona because it weathers well. Teak is a popular choice since 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 make 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 selection for outdoor furniture in Arizona, particularly if the furniture is likely 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 want to go with metal frames aluminum is an excellent choice because it doesn’t rust, is light weight and still durable.
Plastic – It might not sound like the most aesthetic option but plastic provides a lot of variety, it’s affordable and it’s very weather resistant. Go for hard plastic resin materials if you choose this material.
Types of Outdoor Furniture for Your Arizona Home
When it comes to outdoor furniture there’s something to fit everyone’s tastes and needs. Below are only a few types of outdoor furniture that will make your Arizona home more pleasing and functional.
- Swings
- Loungers
- Umbrellas
- Table sets
- Adirondacks
- Benches
- Gliders