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What Type of Outdoor Furniture Holds Up Best ?

Home and Patio Outdoor

Outdoor furniture makes spending time outdoors more enjoyable. While outdoor furniture shares many of the same comfort and style characteristics as indoor furniture, outdoor furniture must be durable enough to withstand the outside elements. Torrential rains, strong winds, blazing sun, and freezing snow can all damage your furniture. Although there are no truly weatherproof outdoor furniture products, the materials used can make a big difference.

Deciding on outdoor furnishings depends on your lifestyle, budget, and location as well as an understanding of the benefits and disadvantages of the materials used in outdoor furniture. In this guide, we discuss the pros and cons of different outdoor furniture materials and how they hold up against the elements.

Wood

Outdoor furniture made from wood is popular for its strength and durability. It also offers several options for style, finish, and comfort. The natural oils found in the wood help make it resistant to weather, water, and rust. With regular maintenance and refinishing, wood furniture can last decades. The most durable wooden furniture is often constructed of hardwoods like teak, acacia, eucalyptus, and white oak.

Pros of wooden outdoor furniture:

  • Resistant to weather, water, cracking, warping, and decay.
  • Eucalyptus is eco-friendly, sustainable, and resistant to insects.
  • Easy to maintain.

Cons of wooden outdoor furniture:

  • Requires refinishing and maintenance every two years.
  • Color can fade over time.
  • Susceptible to insects.
  • Can be expensive.

Metals

Thanks to its versatility, metal is another popular material used for outdoor furniture. Metal outdoor furniture comes in many forms, and designs can be molded into just about any shape. Depending on the type of metal used, the furniture may be heavy or lightweight, hollow or solid, painted or powder-coated. Metal outdoor furniture is commonly made from wrought aluminum, cast aluminum, stainless steel, and wrought iron.

Pros of metal outdoor furniture:

  • Durable.
  • Resistant to the wind.
  • Easy to maintain.
  • More design and style options are available.

Cons of metal outdoor furniture:

  • Prone to rust and corrosion.
  • Retains heat and cold.
  • Can be heavy, if made from wrought iron or stainless steel.
  • Might require cushions or other pads for comfort.

Resins and Plastics

Resins and plastics create low-maintenance, affordable, and lightweight outdoor furniture. Resin furniture, especially that made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), is a good option for those interested in the wicker or rattan style without the cost and long-term maintenance. Plastics are increasingly used for colorful and intricate pieces and in locations with high humidity and salt water.

Pros of resins and plastics:

  • Easy to clean and maintain.
  • Lightweight and easy to store.
  • Weather- and fade-resistant.
  • Durable.
  • Eco-friendly.

Cons of resins and plastics:

  • Too lightweight for windy locations.
  • Lower-quality resins are likely to crack, unravel, or become brittle.

Other Materials

Outdoor furniture materials aren’t limited to wood, resins, plastics, or metals. Depending on your aesthetic, lifestyle, budget, and location, furniture can be made with a combination of the four — or a completely different material. These other materials include composite, concrete, high-pressure laminate (HPL), and tempered glass. Furniture manufacturers incorporate these materials to add durability, improve design capabilities, and enhance resistance to weather.

Pros of other materials:

  • Last longer than resin and natural wood.
  • All weather-resistant, waterproof, and rust-proof.
  • Low maintenance.
  • More contemporary and modern look.
  • Can be used with other materials like wood, resin, plastic, and metal.

Cons of other materials:

  • Can be heavy and, in the case of concrete furniture, permanent.
  • More expensive than other materials.

Fabrics

Fabrics and upholstery, like linen, polyester, cotton blends, acrylic, foam, and vinyl are used to make outdoor furniture, accessories, and home decor. Commonly used in pillows, cushions, hammocks, sun shades, and floor poufs, these products increase the comfort and style of your outdoor furniture.

Pros of fabrics:

  • Weather- and fade-resistant.
  • Breathable.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Lightweight.
  • Endless design and style options.
  • Comfortable.
  • Affordable.

Cons of fabrics:

  • Often not waterproof.
  • Vulnerable to mold, moisture, and insects.
  • More durable fabrics like acrylic and quick-dry foam can be expensive.

In a city as stylish and humid as Houston, your outdoor furniture should reflect your aesthetic and lifestyle and be able to endure the elements. We hope this guide helped you determine what type of material you want your outdoor furniture to be made of.

Are you in the market for new patio or outdoor furniture? Houston Home and Patio is the premier outdoor furniture store in Houston. We offer the largest selection of outdoor furniture in the Houston area. From patio furniture to home decor and furniture repairs, our experts are here to help. Contact us online today or call 281-440-7667.

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Best Patio Furniture to Leave Outside All Year Long

Outdoor Patio with Table and Chair

Having an outdoor living space such as a deck is one of the joys of owning a home. You can enjoy the seasons together as a family and use it to entertain. Choosing the best patio furniture helps determine the success of these memorable moments.

As weather shifts, you face another decision: how to protect your investment in patio furniture. Should you leave your furniture outside all year long, or bring it inside? You should make the choice between these two, and come to an answer well before you buy.  The right choice means getting multiple years of use out of your patio furniture, and plenty of outdoor use. Here are some factors to look for in finding the best patio furniture for year-round use as well as a few suggested sets to consider.

Factors To Consider

The best patio furniture to leave outside through fall, winter, spring, and summer is made of the hardiest materials. First, consider your climate, and follow these suggestions:

  • Favor aluminum sets. Aluminum as a material is very low maintenance and highly resistant to corrosion caused by ice and moisture. It’s also easy to clean. Stainless or galvanized steel are good options as well.
  • If you prefer wicker, choose furniture sets with wicker made of polyethylene, which also resists moisture. Make sure the set comes with a weather-resistant frame.
  • Certain wood furniture sets can also stay out the entire year. Experts recommend choosing sets made of teak, which exhibit the most weather resistance of any of the hardwoods. Other options include mahogany or oak.
  • Plastic furniture sets may not fit with your look and feel, but they are a good option to survive inclement weather. However, if it gets bitterly cold in your area, this might not be the best choice because the plastic can freeze and crack.
  • For furniture cushions, accept only those made with reticulated foam, as that material repels bacteria and fungi and moves moisture through the cushion.

Best Patio Furniture To Leave Outside

Houston Home and Patio, a family-owned and-operated business for more than 40 years and through three generations, offers a large selection of all-season outdoor furniture and accessories. Choosing the right materials makes all the difference. Here are a few of the sets with the maximum durability to consider.

Aris by O.W. Lee

Using a wrought aluminum frame that can stand up to rain and snow, the Aris by O.W. Lee collection lets you piece together a furniture set that can include sofas, loveseats, lounge chairs, swivel rocker chairs, ottomans, and other pieces. The Aris collection also includes items made of wrought iron.

Classico by O.W. Lee

Made of wrought iron, the Classico O.W. Lee collection delivers a sense of retro elegance in its design. One major characteristic of Classico is its use of spiral designs, most notably in the arms of the furniture and the base. Classico offers much to choose from to develop your set, including club chairs, swivel rocking chairs, chaise lounges, gliders, sofas, loveseats, and more.

South Hampton by Lane Venture

The South Hampton collection by Lane Venture stands up to the elements year-round with its durable wicker large-scale weave. The pieces are hand-woven over the top of a premium aluminum frame using high UV polyethylene synthetic fiber. You can build your set to include pieces such as a lounge chair, loveseat, sofa, corner section chair, right-arm and left-arm loveseat, curved settee, or circular chaise lounge.

Aris by O.W. Lee

Using a wrought aluminum frame that can stand up to rain and snow, the Aris by O.W. Lee collection lets you piece together a furniture set that can include sofas, loveseats, lounge chairs, swivel rocker chairs, ottomans, and other pieces. The Aris collection also includes items made of wrought iron.

Classico by O.W. Lee

Made of wrought iron, the Classico O.W. Lee collection delivers a sense of retro elegance in its design. One major characteristic of Classico is its use of spiral designs, most notably in the arms of the furniture and the base. Classico offers much to choose from to develop your set, including club chairs, swivel rocking chairs, chaise lounges, gliders, sofas, loveseats, and more.

South Hampton by Lane Venture

The South Hampton collection by Lane Venture stands up to the elements year-round with its durable wicker large-scale weave. The pieces are hand-woven over the top of a premium aluminum frame using high UV polyethylene synthetic fiber. You can build your set to include pieces such as a lounge chair, loveseat, sofa, corner section chair, right-arm and left-arm loveseat, curved settee, or circular chaise lounge.

Roma by Alfresco

Geared toward outside dining, the Roma collection from Alfresco, made of cast and extruded aluminum, is another set of patio furniture you can leave outside all year. Roma furniture, showcasing spiral designs, includes dining chairs, lounge chairs, bar chairs, counter chairs, and other items for a good night of entertainment.

Drew by Ebel

The Drew set from Ebel is another wicker option that you will be able to leave on your patio all year and count on its durability. These pieces are made of rust-proof aluminum frames with handwoven weaves that are sure to last. The material is fully recyclable. In addition to resisting moisture, the Drew set also stands up to harmful UV rays.

For All Your Home and Patio Needs

Across three generations, Houston Home and Patio has helped shoppers make decisions about how to make their outdoor living spaces the most comfortable they can be. We pride ourselves on not just our broad selection but also the unique customer service relationship we will build with you.

If you are looking to design your new outdoor living room, spruce up your pool, or just add a bench to complete your garden, Houston Home and Patio has you covered. We have an on-site warehouse that allows for quick deliveries. Check out our website and then visit us for a consultation on your project. Call us or contact us online for an appointment.

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Update Your Patio Décor with Patio Furniture in Spring, TX

Patio Furniture Spring, TX | Houston Home & Patio

Why Update Your Patio Décor with Patio Furniture Spring, TX?

A patio is one of the best things a home can have. It gives you a place to entertain company or to escape outside when you need some relaxation. However, since it’s outside, patio equipment can become easily worn down over time. This happens slowly so that you may not even notice it’s occurring. However, if you take a closer look at your patio decor, you may realize that it could use some fixing up from patio furniture.

Updating your patio decor comes with some great benefits. For starters, it makes your patio area more enjoyable. You’re much more likely to spend time outside on your patio if there is some comfortable furniture in a relaxing atmosphere. In addition, upgrading your patio furniture provides a better environment when you have guests over. With the right patio decor upgrades, you’ll become the home where everyone wants to spend time.

Finally, upgrading patio decor is relatively affordable. When you consider how much enjoyment you’ll get out of it, upgrading your patio decor is one of the best financial decisions you can make for your home. Below are just a few areas to explore when you decide to upgrade your patio furniture.

Table and Chairs from Patio Furniture Spring, TXtables and chairs by patio furniture spring, tx

If you plan on having meals outside, start with your table and chairs. These will typically be the center of your patio and where you’ll spend the most time eating. Think about how many guests you usually have on your deck, as this will give you a good idea of how many chairs to get and what size table you need. When choosing outdoor furniture for Spring, TX, choose something that matches the color of your home or patio. In addition, prioritize comfortable seats so that you and your guests can spend time outside for hours without getting uncomfortable.

Lounge Seating from Patio Furniture Spring, TX

Whether you plan on dining outside or not, consider adding in some lounge seating on your patio. Lounge seating consists of chairs or couches that are extra comfortable, where you can sit back and relax for a while. They typically have cushions that are both comfortable and weather-resistant so that you can leave them outside without worrying about a passing shower. If you’re unsure where to start and limited in space, consider going with two chaise lounges with a small table between them.

Swings, Gliders, and Hammocks from Patio Furniture Spring, TX

There are, of course, other seating options besides lounge chairs. One option is to add a swing or glider to your patio set. A swing hangs overhead from a deck beam or strong tree branch and typically holds one or two people. Gliders are like swings, except they are supported on a stand rather than hanging. Both swings and gliders are perfect if you like a little rocking motion as you sit outside and enjoy the nice weather.

Another option is adding a hammock. Hammocks are great for lazy days when you want to take a nap outside or spend some time with a book. Many hammocks now come with stands to not need two posts or trees to install one. As long as you have a flat surface, you can set up a hammock that will provide hours and hours of relaxation on your patio. To make things even better, don’t forget to add some pillows and a light blanket.

Patio Furniture Spring, TX Offers Firepits

Don’t let the fun stop just because the sun goes down or the temperature drops a little. Firepits are a great addition to practically any patio set, as they provide the perfect place to gather around on a cool night. There are firepits in all sizes and styles available, making it easy to find one that perfectly fits your other patio decor. You can even get firepits that don’t require any wood, so your fire is always ready to go, and there’s no cleanup. Once you have a firepit set up on your patio, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do so much sooner as you find yourself spending most nights around it.

Decor Items from Patio Furniture Spring, TXpatio furniture spring tx offers wicker patio furniture

To complete the look of your new patio, there are some simple patio decor items you can add. Some great additions are some throw pillows to your new lounge chairs or gliders, a few laps around the patio to give the area more light, or some decorative clocks. You can also add a decorative area rug to your deck to give it a more comfortable feeling. A few small touches can go a long way towards completing your patio look.

Get Started on Your New Patio Look Today

If your patio has seen better days, now is the perfect time to make some updates. If you’re in the Spring, TX area, Houston Home and Patio is here to help. We have a wide selection of patio furniture and decor items that you’re sure to love. Shopping for patio furniture doesn’t have to be a difficult or expensive process. Visit our shop or contact us today to learn more about all the different patio items we offer.

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Update Your Patio Décor with Patio Furniture in Spring, TX| Houston Home and Patio – Houston, TX