Five Things You Should Know When Purchasing Patio And Garden Furniture

Choosing Garden and Patio Furniture

With the approach of spring several home-owners will be thinking of changing the look and ambience of their outdoor by adding different items of patio furniture. Adding pieces of patio furniture or accessory to your lawn or garden can increase the beauty of your patio, garden or lawn and add tremendous value of your property.

The variety of patio furniture available has increased exponentially in recent years with varying choices in shape, size and materials. Families are now spending much more time outdoors whenever possible and have added tables and chairs, benches, stools love seats, and more exotic items such as swings and rocking chairs. Accessories such as bird houses, planter boxes and garden bridges will also add a special touch to your patio or garden.

The main materials used in the manufacture of patio furniture are hardwoods (Red Cedar, Chinese Oak or Java Teak), Metals (Aluminum or Vast Iron) and Plastics. All of these materials have attributes that make them attractive for making patio furniture.

Patio furniture made from plastics is lighter in weight when compared to the other two materials. Plastics also offer the advantage of low maintenance when used for outdoor or patio furniture as they require no painting or treatment over the life of the items.

The relatively light weight of aluminum compared to cast iron has caused its increased use in the manufacture of patio furniture. There is however is a relatively high demand for heavy metal furniture especially in public parks and gardens which are easy targets for thieves and vandals

Despite the benefits of metal and plastics hardwood remains the material of choice for garden or patio furniture. Western Red Cedar the most popular hardwood used in the manufacture of outdoor and patio furniture contains natural oils that act as preservatives to help the wood resist insect attack and decay. Cedar is also a dimensionally stable wood which means that it lies flat and stays straight. Properly finished and maintained, Western Red Cedar ages gracefully and endures for many year

The natural look and feel of wood allows garden and patio furniture pieces to easily blend with the plants in your lawn and garden. In addition hardwood has the following advantages when used for garden or patio furniture.

• Unlike Plastic or Resin, garden and patio furniture made from hardwood will not bow or sag over time and will not be blown across the yard by light winds.

• When used for Garden or Patio Furniture hardwood will not become dull sun scorched and faded, but rather will hold its naturally beautiful appearance for several years.

Patio furniture comes in a range of prices depending on the material used and the items chosen. You could make a difference by spending a few dollars on a birdhouse planter box or several thousand dollars to do a makeover of your patio and garden by adding seating, garden swings fountains and garden bridges.