Could Your Outdoor Furniture Use an Update?

Everybody needs a break now and then, and you will as you settle into your home from among Suffolk County homes for sale or Nassau County homes for sale. One great way to get ready for a day of relaxing is to update your outdoor furniture.

Maybe your outdoor furniture has seen better days and is way overdue for an upgrade, or maybe you've planned to have something better as you get your new home in shape. Our REALTORS® are here to help you choose the right replacements.

Choose Furniture Materials

You have several materials to choose from, so consider carefully how much exposure to the elements there will be, how durable you need the furniture to be, and of course, affordability.

• Plastic or resin furniture is fairly inexpensive and easy to clean. Plus, these days, you may find some nice colors and designs. Just be aware it may not last very long if left under the UV rays.
• Metal furniture is certainly the most durable but also likely to be the most expensive.
• Steel or wrought iron furniture will stand up to the elements better but is also heavier if you decide to move it to shelter over winter.
• Synthetic rattan is made of plastic, coated woven strands, and is extremely durable, standing up to the elements. It's also affordable and easy to clean.
• Natural wicker furniture is beautiful and lightweight but needs to be stored in winter. It isn't very durable.
• Wooden furniture is one of the best choices, but it needs to be preserved so it will stand up to the elements. The best types of wood for outdoor purposes are teak, cypress, redwood, and cedar. Your wooden furniture will probably include upholstered cushions.

Think About What You'll Need 

Will you need just enough pieces for family get-togethers, or are you planning on extensive entertaining? How well will the number of pieces you have in mind fit in a particular space? Maybe you like the idea of a matched group of pieces or prefer a more casual look, where only some or no pieces match the others. Some pieces you will be looking at include chairs, a settee or loveseat, a bench, patio sectional, chaise lounge, and tables. Avoid crowding furniture; you want to keep your outdoor area aesthetically pleasing. You can buy plenty of extra inexpensive chairs to bring out when needed. 

Elements to Complement Your Furniture

Think about how your furniture choices will look in your space, but also how they might complement your bar, the outdoor kitchen, or the various pieces that make up your outdoor entertainment, dining, or garden area: pergola; umbrella and table and chairs; trellises; or patio walls of wood, stone, or brick. 

Have fun with your outdoor furniture upgrade. Go whimsical or sedate, sleekly modern or comfortably traditional. And remember, if you have questions about buying or selling a home in Suffolk or Nassau counties, our real estate staff is ready with answers. Contact us today.