What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in MI
Do you have a deck, porch, patio, sun room or pool? If so, you’ve probably spent time considering what kind of outdoor furniture is best suited for the exterior of your Michigan 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 decide on the best outdoor furniture – what to keep in mind before buying, which materials work best for outdoor furniture in Michigan, the different different kinds of furnishings and more.
What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in Michigan
Climate – The climate and the weather in Michigan should be one of the top factors affecting which outdoor furniture you ultimately buy. Do you get extremely high or low temperature throughout 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 MI?
These are the sort of questions you need to contemplate before you purchase outdoor furniture for your Michigan home.
Your outdoor space – Your outdoor space will determine what type of outdoor furniture is appropriate. The dimensions of the space is, of course, 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 bear 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 is your outdoor space used for? How will the the outdoor furniture be used 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 you decide what you really need 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 may find outdoor furniture for bargain prices.
Best Materials for Outdoor Furniture in Michigan
Woods – Wood, being a natural material, is a superb selection for outdoor furniture in Michigan because it weathers well. Teak is a popular choice since it is very strong, although it is more expensive than other available choices. Cedar is another 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 choice for outdoor furniture in Michigan, especially 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 a good choice because it doesn’t rust, is lightweight and still durable.
Plastic – It may 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 opt this material.
Types of Outdoor Furniture for Your Michigan Home
When you are looking for outdoor furniture there’s something to fit everyone’s tastes and needs. Below are just a few types of outdoor furniture that will make your Michigan home more appealing and functional.
- Swings
- Loungers
- Umbrellas
- Table sets
- Adirondacks
- Benches
- Gliders