What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in OR
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 Oregon 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 pick the best outdoor furniture – what to consider before buying, which materials work best for outdoor furniture in Oregon, the different different kinds of furnishings and more.
What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in Oregon
Climate – The climate and the weather in Oregon 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 OR?
These are the sort of questions you need to contemplate before buying outdoor furniture for your Oregon 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 kind of outdoor furniture you ultimately get. Make sure that the furniture isn’t so big that it dominates the space.
Also keep in mind 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'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 will add to the atmosphere and functionality so don’t buy before deciding 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 you can always 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 Oregon
Woods – Wood, being a natural material, is an excellent selection for outdoor furniture in Oregon because it weathers well. Teak is a popular choice because it is very strong, although it is more expensive than other available choices. Cedar is also a 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 choice for outdoor furniture in Oregon, especially if the furniture is going 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 would like 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 offers 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 Oregon Home
When it comes to outdoor furniture there’s something to fit everyone’s needs and tastes. Below are only a few types of outdoor furniture that can make your Oregon home more pleasing and functional.
- Swings
- Loungers
- Umbrellas
- Table sets
- Adirondacks
- Benches
- Gliders