Archive for June 25, 2009
Decor on the Deck – Furniture
Patio furniture is available in so many styles that your choice ultimately depends on your budget and your personal preferences.
Cedar
Cedar is a low-maintenance choice due to its resistance to rot and other damage. Treatment with a waterproofing sealer every couple of years will extend the cedar’s life span and give it a more appealing finish.
Redwood
Naturally resistant to warping, shrinking, and decay, as well as to insects. If left unfinished, redwood that is constantly in the sun eventually bleaches to gray, but that doesn’t affect its resistance to rot and weather.
Teak
Teak for Poolside Settings. The durability and water resistance of teak make it a good choice for poolside furniture and structures.
Weatherproof Metal Dining
low-maintenance metal dining set like this one is a good choice if you want to leave the furniture out all year. Since metal seating has a hard surface, add removable cushions for comfort.
Wrought Iron
This wrought-iron dining set can stay outdoors year-round as long as the painted finish remains in good shape. Clean wrought iron by washing it with soap and water, then rinsing it well. If you find any nicks or scratches, touch them up with paint to prevent rust from forming.
Resin
Furnishings on this patio can stay outside year-round, rain or shine.
Wicker
Wicker and wicker look-alikes are ideal for outdoor dining areas because the chairs are lightweight and easy to move. Synthetic wicker is a little more expensive than natural wicker, but it is more versatile for outdoor use. Made from moisture-proof resins and rustproof aluminum framing, synthetic wicker can withstand the elements, while natural wicker cannot.
Powder-Coated Metal
Powder-coated aluminum patio furniture has a tough, long-lasting, scratch-resistant surface.
Weathered Wood
Allowed to weather naturally, these wood pieces form a rustic seating area. The charming color blends well with the decking material.
Built-ins
A Built-In Bench or built in storage takes full advantage of the space you have.
Furniture on Wheels
Streamlined chaises and tables on sturdy casters can be easily repositioned to follow the sun or shade. Even the dining table is on wheels, allowing for maximum flexibility.
Add something Distinctive
Decor on the Deck – Helpful Tips
Designing a functional, flexible outdoor space is much like designing an interior room.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
Plan for the long-term
Even if it takes you five years to implement your design, it is important to have a cohesive plan and stick with it.
Physically connect the outdoor room to your home
This will save you money on utility connections, allow you to use existing walls, and offer easy access to the indoors.
Choose comfortable, weather-resistant furniture.
Have fun with fabric. Outdoor fabric that can stand up to harsh conditions is now available in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Add visual warmth
Try incorporating a chandelier or adding decorative wall accents
Think big
Make the outdoor room as large as you can to maximize the benefits.
Factor in landscaping
Include an outdoor fireplace