Your Next Outdoor Furniture Purchase Should Be Your Last

I just read an informative article by Cindy Metcalf', detailing what you should look for the next time you're in the market for outdoor furniture. She speaks about her naivity on the subject and hopes that everyone will learn from her mistakes. She confesses, "Unfortunately, I didn’t spend a great deal of money or time shopping around, and after only a few years, it’s beginning to show it. I’ve learned a few things about the quality of outdoor furniture and knowing a little more would have prevented me from having to purchase it again so soon."

She urges those in the market for patio furniture to do their homework. She said, "See if your retailer offers a variety of manufacturers for outdoor seating groups, lounge chairs and tables in materials such as wood, wrought iron, cast aluminum, casual aluminum and rattan wicker." (We do!)

From Woodard, this is the Terrace collection.

"Wrought iron is known for its strength and durability, but be sure you like the style, because you will probably keep this one for a lifetime." She goes on to say that with a little paint touch-up, it will last you for many, many years.

From Gensun, this is the Manhattan collection.

"Cast aluminum will never rust and requires very little maintenance." Also, this type is usually more decorative.

From Woodard, this is the Chatham Run collection.

Resin wicker is an all-weather material and looks very realistic.  It can also hold up to the most extreme weather. "Many of the better manufacturers provide aluminum framing underneath that will not rust." (We do!)

In the article, she sings her praises about Sunbrella fabric. She thinks it's "one of the best fabric manufacturers" out there because they are known for their durability and fade resistant colors. At Trees n Trends, you can coordinate your pillows, cushions and umbrella using Sunbrella fabric so everything on your patio matches.

At the end of the article, she reiterates, "Don’t be like myself and many others, going back just after a few years, doing it all over again!" I think what she's saying is, by paying more the first time, there may never be a second time.