10 tips for outdoor furniture

Do your homework.

Look for outdoor furniture ideas in magazines and catalogs. Browse the internet for design concepts.

Know your style.

Whether you like sleek contemporary lines, or the elaborate curves of vintage furniture, you can find outdoor furniture to suit your personal style.

Material matters.

Outdoor furniture in wrought iron, cast aluminum, teak, wicker and resin or plastic expand your choices.

Buy to fit.

Measure your outdoor space before you buy. Allow twelve to eighteen inches between pieces to accommodate movement.

Try it on.

Outdoor furniture should be comfortable. Sit in the chairs and stretch out on benches or a chaise lounge. Look for smooth, even, painted surfaces that won’t scratch legs and arms.

Climate concerns.

Life outdoors can get messy. Look for quality pieces with weather-proof surfaces. Painted surfaces should be sealed and fabrics should be treated with a water repellant.

Shop early or shop late.

The best buys on outdoor furniture can be found at the beginning and end of the season. Look for discounted floor models or last year’s clearance bargains.

Think outside the big box.

Home and garden discount stores aren’t the only sources for outdoor furniture. Furniture stores, import warehouses and online catalogs often carry unique outdoor pieces.

Be flexible.

If you like to move your outdoor furniture around the backyard, look for lightweight resin or aluminum pieces.

Relax.

Use what you have. String the hammock between shade trees, pull up a table to hold a cold drink and block the sun with that colorful umbrella. Enjoy the warm weather in style.