What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in NY
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 exterior of your New York home. The proper furniture can make your outdoor space a truly livable extension of the interior and add value to your property.
Learn how to decide on the best outdoor furniture – what to consider before buying, which materials work best for outdoor furniture in New York, the different varieties of furnishings and more.
What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in New York
Climate – The climate and varying weather conditions in New York 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 live in NY?
These are the sort of questions you need to contemplate before you purchase outdoor furniture for your New York home.
Your outdoor space – Your outdoor space will determine what sort of outdoor furniture is appropriate. The size of the space is, obviously, the top concern and can limit the kind of outdoor furniture you ultimately get. Ensure that the furniture isn’t so big that it dominates the space.
Also take into account 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 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 at a later date, 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 New York
Woods – Wood, being a natural material, is a superb selection for outdoor furniture in New York because it weathers well. Teak is a popular choice because it is very strong, although it is more expensive than other choices. Cedar is another popular choice for outdoor furniture.
Fabrics – If 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 choice for outdoor furniture in New York, 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 would like to go with metal frames aluminum is a good choice because it doesn’t rust, is lightweight 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. Choose hard plastic resin materials if you opt this material.
Types of Outdoor Furniture for Your New York 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 New York home more appealing and functional.
- Swings
- Loungers
- Umbrellas
- Table sets
- Adirondacks
- Benches
- Gliders