Patio Sets

When my husband and I were choosing a patio bar set for our outdoor entertainment area, we had a few decisions to make. We do a lot of entertaining, have lovely summer weather, a pool and 3 kids. It seemed a waste to have friends over if we were just going to be inside all the time. We decided that we wouldn’t limit ourselves in terms of money but wanted outdoor furniture that would last in the weather conditions we had, at the same time as suit the area and look good.

I am quite picky when it comes to interior design so I was quite against the idea of plastic furniture at first. When you are choosing outdoor furniture, you really need to take weather into account as well as how exposed your patio area is to the elements of sunshine, rain and wind. On top of that if you have humid weather, you might have to rethink your decision too. In a humid climate, wooden furniture will get moldy. Although most patio furniture is sealed it still seems to get mildew growing on it.

In fact any materials like cushions and table cloths that are left outside will get damaged by mildew and faded by sunshine. Cushions and table cloths are easy to move around when you are not using the deck area, but its a bit tricky with bulky pieces of furniture. Besides the whole point of having a bar set it to leave it outside right? If you have the time to constantly wipe the furniture down, then by all means a wooden bar will be just fine. But also take into account rain and sunshine.

Both of these elements make for quicker deterioration of wooden outdoor furniture. Plastic patio bar sets are also prone to damage from sunshine especially, and if left outside in direct sunlight, you will find the colors fade and the plastic is weakened and might even crack. However plastic won’t rot and its perfect for a humid climate. Plastic patio furniture is also cheap but this does not mean it lasts long. For longer lasting plastic, choose the more expensive brands which use a much stronger type of plastic.

Don’t forget that the patio area is actually an extension of your home so one should decorate this area with as much thought as you would were it inside. However you have to take into account the weather and practical aspects too. Just don’t be cheap because you might end up regretting it. Take everything into consideration. My husband and I now really enjoy being outside because we have everything we need right there on the deck. No more trips inside to get drinks, glasses, bottle openers etc. Not only that but we have accessorized this area and made it our own. The only real limit is your imagination.