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What Type of Outdoor Furniture Holds Up Best ?

Waterproof Outdoor furniture with lighting and trees

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 with a gorgeous view

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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Top 6 Best Pieces of Patio Furniture for Spring, TX

Choosing furnishings for your living space is an essential process because what you pick will impact your comfort and ability to relax in your home. But when you live in the Spring, Texas, area, you can also extend your living space into the outdoor areas on your property. Decking out your patio with high-quality and comfortable furnishings can encourage guests to spend time outdoors while feeling relaxed and comfortable. Take a closer look at the top six pieces of patio furniture to add to your outdoor living space.

Best Patio Furniture

Dining Table With Chairs

A dining table with chairs is a useful addition to any outdoor space. Putting this type of outdoor furniture on your patio ensures that those using the space have an area to sit down and dine alfresco. Since the climate is pleasant here in Spring throughout the year, eating outside is an enjoyable activity whether you’re dining with your immediate family or throwing a cookout with friends. You can also use the table to do other activities, such as playing games or working from home.

When choosing an outdoor dining table with chairs to add to your patio, look for styles designed and rated for outdoor use. Certain materials may warp or sustain damage when exposed to the elements, so unless you want to put the table away when it’s not in use, opt for one that will hold up well. If you plan to sit outside for longer periods, you might choose chairs with padding or a cushion for improved comfort.

Sofa or Couch

sofa and couch set

When you want to maximize comfort in your outdoor space, adding some indoor-inspired pieces can make that happen. A comfy couch or sofa is an appealing option, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outside. Many of the pieces offered at Houston Home Patio, a trusted patio furniture company located in the Spring area, are made from materials that can get wet and won’t fade, even when exposed to the elements. Tie the space together with an outdoor rug that adds a touch of softness beneath your feet.

Umbrella

Since the sun’s rays can get hot, especially during the late spring and summer months, it’s worth investing in an umbrella as part of your patio setup. Patio umbrellas come in various sizes and styles, including freestanding and table-mounted options. In addition, it’s helpful to get an umbrella that can tilt to block out the sun no matter where it’s positioned in the sky.

Barstools

If your outdoor space features a kitchen with a bar, adding barstools is a great option to increase seating without disrupting traffic flow. Barstools are highly functional and encourage people to sit down, even when preparing food or chatting with the grill master of the patio. You can choose from various styles and heights, including swiveling stools, bar stools with and without armrests, and coastal-inspired options. All of these styles and more are available at Houston Home Patio, a leading patio furniture company in Spring, Texas.

Fireplace or Fire Pit

A fire can make a space feel cozier and more welcoming. A gas fire pit or fireplace provides those benefits without producing smoke, making either option a great addition to your patio. You can shop for traditional fire tables with space around the edges for plates and cups and more modern styles with clean lines. It’s smart to add seating around your fire pit or fireplace, allowing people to sit next to the fire and enjoy its warmth and ambiance. 

Hammock

If relaxation is your main priority, adding a hammock to your patio is a must. For many people, a hammock feels like a getaway, allowing the user to gently swing while being immersed in their natural surroundings. If you have trees that allow adding a hammock, you can hang it between them. If your trees won’t support a hammock or you don’t want to hang it, you can also get a stand that allows you to put it wherever you want.

As you decide which of these top-rated patio furniture pieces are ideal for your outdoor space, head to Houston Home Patio to look at the options we have in stock. Our selection includes all different styles and designs, ensuring that every customer can find what they want to deck out their patio.