The Do’s and Don’ts of Buying Outdoor Furniture

So you’re looking to upgrade your backyard, patio, or deck with some quality outdoor furniture? Before you go any further, there are a few essential things to understand before buying. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as going to the store and picking out something that looks slick — there are multiple factors to consider when choosing furniture that ticks all the right boxes when it comes to aesthetics, durability and quality. To help you out, we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the do’s and don’ts of buying outdoor furniture. Let’s get into it.

Don’t: Sacrifice Quality for Price

As tempting as it is to go for the cheaper option, quality is key when it comes to choosing the right furniture for your outdoor space. Investing in something that’s better quality will end up saving you more money in the long run.

Outdoor furniture takes a beating – more so than indoor furniture. Not only does it have to handle frequent use, but it also has to regularly battle the elements. That’s why a well crafted, high quality piece of furniture will be a valuable investment for your outdoor area – it’ll last for years to come, rain or shine.

Do: Buy According to Your Needs

Buy furniture that suits your needs.That simply means making sure your furniture accommodates your lifestyle.While it’s easy to be seduced by a particularly beautiful piece, always keep in mind that establishing your needs should always be the priority. There’s no use in spending money on extra chairs when everyone just wants to sit at the table.

For example, if you’ve got minimal storage space and a tight budget, you might think it’s safe to opt for lightweight furniture because it is easy to store, inexpensive and able to hold up in some weather conditions. But while it seems like a good idea at first, it’s important to note that these options will decay a lot quicker.

If you’ve got young children, you might want to think about investing in more durable options made from long-lasting and reliable materials that don’t tear as easily.

Working with a specific colour palette? Ensure your chosen piece fits with your overall décor. Making sure all your pieces work together will create harmony and balance in your space.

If you entertain frequently, you may want bigger and sturdier options that can accommodate a lot of people comfortably and frequently. On the other hand, if your outdoor furniture is solely for everyday use, you might need something a little more casual and cosy. It’s all about choosing furniture that’s fit for its end use.

Don’t: Neglect Durability

Aside from looking good, you must make sure your outdoor furniture can withstand all kinds of weather, including rain, snow, heat, UV rays, and more. The last thing you want is for your brand new piece to crack or fade after just a few months.

High-quality wooden frames don’t sway under pressure or bend under weight – which makes them a dependable option. Despite the fact that they might cost slightly more upfront, high-quality frames are worthy in the long run because they hold up better over time.

Keep in mind how much weight different types of materials can handle. A rattan chair might look gorgeous, but it won’t hold up well if you plan on hosting barbecues every weekend.

As a rule of thumb, purchase furniture made from durable products such as Teak Wood, especially if you’re buying it for outdoor use, as you can be sure that it will stand the test of time.

Cushions are also important. While cheap cushions are popular and simple, they aren’t as dependable as more premium ones – Devon uses solution dyed acrylic cushions that are designed to last and withstand the elements. Buying new cushions every few years or so can ensure that you maintain that modern yet comfortable look for your outdoor furniture.

Do: Measure your Sizing

It’s time to get the tape measure out. When choosing outdoor furniture, size always matters. Pay attention to scale when shopping for outdoor furniture; you want pieces that feel just as good outside your home just as they do inside.

Although cost is often a factor, it’s not always a reason to stick with small furniture; sometimes spending more on custom-built furniture can lead to better quality. So before you buy, measure your space; then look for something that fits both visually and physically.

For example, if you’re looking at sofas in sets of two or three, take measurements from your outdoor area and compare them to sofa dimensions. Better yet; consult a pro who can help find sizes and shapes that work well together and suit your needs.

Ready to choose the perfect outdoor furniture to suit your space? Check out our latest collections or get inspired by our latest client projects.