What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in WA
Do you have a deck, porch, patio, sun room or pool? If so, you’ve probably spent time contemplating what kind of outdoor furniture is best suited for the outside of your Washington 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 pick the best outdoor furniture – what to keep in mind before buying, which materials work best for outdoor furniture in Washington, the different different kinds of furnishings and more.
What to Consider Before Buying Outdoor Furniture in Washington
Climate – The climate and varying weather conditions in Washington 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 WA?
These are the sort of questions you need to contemplate before buying outdoor furniture for your Washington home.
Your outdoor space – Your outdoor space will determine what kind of outdoor furniture is appropriate. The size of the space is, needless to say, 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 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's 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 most.
Price range – You may be surprised at how expensive some outdoor furniture can get. Set a budget beforehand and stick to it. Prioritize which pieces are most important, remember you can always get the additional pieces at a later date, and if you wait for the fall and winter season you could find outdoor furniture for bargain prices.
Best Materials for Outdoor Furniture in Washington
Woods – Wood, being a natural material, is a superb selection for outdoor furniture in Washington because it weathers well. Teak is a popular choice since it is very strong, although it is more expensive than other choices. Cedar is also a popular choice for outdoor furniture.
Fabrics – When you're 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 option for outdoor furniture in Washington, especially 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 offers 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 Washington Home
When it comes to outdoor furniture there’s something to fit everyone’s tastes and needs. Below are only a few types of outdoor furniture that can make your Washington home more pleasing and functional.
- Swings
- Loungers
- Umbrellas
- Table sets
- Adirondacks
- Benches
- Gliders