Patio Furniture

When you have a large yard, entertaining outdoors is one of the best ways to accommodate a dozen or more people — as long as you have proper seating, that is. With all the outdoor furniture options available, it is easy to find affordable deck or porch furniture; the hard part is figuring out which patio set will work best for you.

For a jumpstart on picking the right patio furniture for your space, read the following advice:

How much outdoor patio furniture should I buy?

Before you head out to make your purchase, analyze your backyard or porch to see how much room you actually have to work with. In an outdoor space, you don’t want to overcrowd. Be sure to allow plenty of room for guests to walk around that beautiful patio furniture or porch swing.

If you have a larger outdoor space, you can always opt for patio sets. Outside patio furniture sets often come with five or more pieces — complete with outdoor chaise lounges, chairs, tables and sometimes patio umbrellas — so they can fill up your space in a fairly inexpensive way. Because they’re all part of the same outdoor furniture set, they create a cohesive, consistent look.

If you prefer a more eclectic mix, or maybe don’t have room for two outdoor sofas and chairs, you can always skip the outdoor patio furniture sets and try individual items instead. Even just a pair of outdoor chairs or bistro table and chairs can do the trick. To provide a lot of seating in a small space, opt for folding chairs or outdoor stools and benches, which take up less room and can be quickly scooted off to the side when not in use.

What outside furniture pieces do I need?

Once you set up your space, be sure to consider how the area will most often be used. If you love to eat out on your deck with family and friends, invest in deck furniture that includes a dining table instead of just outdoor seating. If relaxation is key, fill your space with comfortable lawn furniture, like a hammock, outdoor chaise lounge and side table to store snacks and icy drinks. If you are lucky enough to have a pool, there are plenty of poolside furniture ideas to help you relax in style. Although it’s great to have room for entertaining, it is more important for you to enjoy your space on a daily basis, so ensure it serves both (or several) purposes. Don’t forget to purchase some patio furniture covers to help protect and prolong the life of your pieces.

What is the best material for outdoor furniture sets?

There are a few different choices when it comes to outdoor furniture material. Metal, wicker, plastic and wood are among the most common, and each one has unique properties that make them ideal for different situations. Metal patio sets are often quite durable and sturdy, but have the potential to rust or become hot when exposed to the elements. Wicker patio furniture is comfortable and great for both the indoors and outdoors, but may not suit everyone's style. Plastic outdoor furniture is a good inexpensive and lightweight option that comes in all sorts of color and styles, but has the potential to fade over time. Last but not least, wooden patio sets are great for their solid construction and ability to stay cool in the heat, but can run a higher price tag and maintenance schedule. Decide what’s right for you in terms of usage, price and maintenance, then make an informed decision to get the perfect garden furniture for your outdoor space.