What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in MN
Do you have a deck, porch, patio, sun room or pool? If you do, you’ve probably spent time contemplating what kind of outdoor furniture is best suited for the outside of your Minnesota home. The right furniture can make your outdoor space a truly livable extension of the interior and add value to your property.
Learn how to choose the best outdoor furniture – what to consider before buying, which materials work best for outdoor furniture in Minnesota, the different types of furnishings and more.
What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in Minnesota
Climate – The climate and varying weather conditions in Minnesota should be one of the top factors affecting which outdoor furniture you ultimately buy. Do you get extremely high or low temperature in the summer and winter months? Is there very little or an abundance of rain throughout the year? Have you got a lot of pollen in the air where you reside in MN?
These are the sort of questions you need to contemplate before you purchase outdoor furniture for your Minnesota home.
Your outdoor space – Your outdoor space will determine what kind of outdoor furniture is appropriate. The size of the space is, of course, the top concern and can limit the sort 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 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 adhere to it. Prioritize which pieces are most important, remember it's possible to get the additional pieces later on, and if you wait for the fall and winter season might be able to find outdoor furniture for bargain prices.
Best Materials for Outdoor Furniture in Minnesota
Woods – Wood, being a natural material, is an excellent selection for outdoor furniture in Minnesota because it weathers well. Teak is a popular choice because it's very strong, although it is more expensive than other options. Cedar is another popular choice for outdoor furniture.
Fabrics – When you're purchasing cushions, umbrellas or table covers confirm 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 Minnesota, particularly if the furniture is likely to be fully exposed to the elements. Metals will rust and turn 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 light weight 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. Opt for hard plastic resin materials if you choose this material.
Types of Outdoor Furniture for Your Minnesota Home
When you are looking for outdoor furniture there’s something to fit everyone’s needs and tastes. Below are just a few types of outdoor furniture that will make your Minnesota home more appealing and functional.
- Swings
- Loungers
- Umbrellas
- Table sets
- Adirondacks
- Benches
- Gliders