Outdoor Dining Furniture
Types and How To Choose

There are quite a few types of outdoor dining furniture.

They all have their pros and cons. Here you'll find the different kinds and learn about each one.

Wicker Outdoor Furniture
Wicker furniture will provide a more old fashioned look. Although it's often thought of in white, it's available in various colors. there are also different kinds of wicker, from natural to synthetic.

Teak Wood Patio and Deck Furniture
Teak wood is long lasting and beautiful. It can be stained to retain its' original color or it can be left to weather to a natural silvery gray patina.

Outdoor Aluminum Furniture
Aluminum outdoor dining furniture is often created to look like iron. Yet, unlike iron, it requires little or no maintenance and is also light in weight.

Wrought Iron Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor iron furniture is for the purists. Wrought iron outdoor furniture was used many years ago. The Victorian era is know for its use of this type of outdoor furniture. It has a great look, but there is usually upkeep and it is heavy. That being said, there are some manufacturers who make outdoor iron furniture with a coating that works to prevent peeling and rusting.

PVC Furniture
PVC furniture is made from a synthetic material. It is lightweight and inexpensive. Unfortunately, it does not last that long. It discolors and tens to scratch.

Rustic Outdoor Furniture
Rustic furniture is that made from trees and logs. If kept somewhat protected, as on a covered porch, it will last a long time. It is quite unique. You will recognize this type of outdoor furniture when you see chairs, for example, made of twisted pieces of natural looking wood. Often the chairs have woven seats.

Choosing Patio and Deck Furniture

Consider the following when making your choices:

Cost - Aluminum outdoor dining furniture comes in many different price ranges. Teak tends to be expensive, as does iron outdoor furniture. The cost of rustic tables and chairs will be determined by the quality. Good quality wicker along with antiques wicker tends to be more expensive, although you can get cheap wicker furniture too.

The Look - Think about the style of your house and patio or deck design. Is it more traditional or contemporary. What is the color of your patio or siding on your house. The material, look and color of the outdoor patio or deck furniture should coordinate with the surroundings, just as it should for interior decorating.

Furniture Longevity - Will the furniture be kept out all year, or can you store it? Will it be out in the open or have a covering over it? For example, your patio or deck might have a trellis to help protect from the weather. Perhaps the furniture will be used on a covered porch. Some types of furniture are tougher than others. Natural wicker is sensitive to the weather, but teak is very durable.

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