What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in NC
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 North Carolina home. The fitting 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 North Carolina, the different different kinds of furnishings and more.
What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in North Carolina
Climate – The climate and varying weather conditions in North Carolina 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? Do you have a lot of pollen in the air where you reside in NC?
These are the sort of questions you need to contemplate before buying outdoor furniture for your North Carolina 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. Make sure 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 is 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 prior to 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 adhere to 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 North Carolina
Woods – Wood, being a natural material, is a superb selection for outdoor furniture in North Carolina 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 also a popular choice for outdoor furniture.
Fabrics – If you're 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 North Carolina, particularly if the furniture is likely to be fully exposed to the elements. Metals will rust and grow 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. Choose hard plastic resin materials if you choose this material.
Types of Outdoor Furniture for Your North Carolina Home
When it comes to outdoor furniture there’s something to fit everyone’s tastes and needs. Below are just a few types of outdoor furniture that can make your North Carolina home more pleasing and functional.
- Swings
- Loungers
- Umbrellas
- Table sets
- Adirondacks
- Benches
- Gliders