Outdoor Patio Sets

Outdoor Patio Furniture Sets - Understanding The Different Materials

Outdoor patio furniture is a great way for you to add the ability to either relax or entertain your friends or family outdoors. There are patio sets, outdoor pouch swings or even hammock with stand for you to choose from. For a more formal kind of setting, patio sets are ideal.

Finding the right type to match your needs and your outdoor setting is very easy to do as patio sets are available in several different types of materials. All you need to do is understand what these materials mean for you as far as cost, durability and easy in which they are cleaned and maintained.

Most people when they think of outdoor patio furniture sets think of wicker. Authentic wicker is made from plant material. It is formed by either using willow switches or natural reeds. In its natural state wicker is brownish however it is commonly painted white. Although sturdy and light weight wicker tends to last longer in an enclosed setting that keeps it safe from the elements. Wicker can be very easily hosed down for cleaning and it's not really overly expensive.

If you love the look of wicker but you want to gain the ability to use it in a less sheltered area consider purchasing an outdoor patio set made from a resin wicker. It looks identical to natural wicker but will give you the ability to have it out in the sun and rain. It will cost a little more initially but will be worth it if you need the extra durability. Resin wicker furniture sets are very easy to clean using just the hose and mild soap.

Wood is also a very popular choice for outdoor patio furniture sets. These sets are usually more expensive because in order to be water and sun resistant you need to use less common species of wood. These woods include teak, cypress and cedar. All of these woods will naturally age but they will not rot and for the most part are insect resistant and vertically maintenance free. If this type of wood is not really in your budget then you may want to consider wrought iron.

Wrought iron patio sets come in many different styles and sizes. They are heavy and solidly made and can be found in several colors. These sets are either powdered coated or painted to get their color. You can simply wash theses sets down with soap and water but you will want to keep an eye out for any chips in the paint and touch them up quickly. Untreated chips can lead to rust spots.  If wrought iron won't look good in your area you could choose to go with aluminium.

Patio sets made from aluminium range from the very cost effective sets to very expensive sets so finding one to fit your budget should be very easy. The only real down fall to aluminium is if it is made with thin tubing the aluminium can be dented. The higher end pieces tend to be made from thicker cast aluminium, making them very durable. Almost all of the outdoor patio furniture sets will require some sort of cushion to make them more comfortable. Choose a cushion that is UV and water resistant and you will complete your set perfectly.