Outdoor Furniture

If you're shopping for new outdoor furniture, but are perplexed by the multitude of options available today, the American Furniture Manufacturers Association offers the following quick overview of what's available in your local stores:

Outdoor wicker

Designed for covered porches and patios, outdoor wicker exudes sophisticated charm and creates a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere. It is a perennial favorite because of its classic good looks and the variety of styles available. Outdoor wicker is usually virgin vinyl woven around a tubular aluminum frame coated in weather-resistant epoxy paint. Although it is water- and fade-resistant, most is not suitable for full exposure to sun and the elements. To maintain its good looks, outdoor wicker should be vacuumed or brushed regularly and hosed down occasionally. Traditional wicker, generally constructed of woven rattan, can be used in enclosed spaces, but won't hold up as well outside.

Teak

Teak, one of the most-popular woods for outdoor furniture, is hard, stable, durable, and requires little care. As it ages, teak changes color from light reddish brown to a soft silver gray, unless it is treated with a special oil or stain. Because of its natural oil content, teak has built-in protection against rotting and can withstand all the elements, including freezing temperatures as well as sweltering heat and high humidity.

Wrought iron

Wrought iron is heavy and provides excellent stability that is ideal for windy areas. It offers long-lasting, timeless beauty and is elegant, yet sturdy. It is available in a variety of styles, including traditional models with graceful curves and ornate latticework. Although iron can rust, today's finishing processes protect against chipping, scratching, and corrosion.

Aluminum

Aluminum, one of the most-popular materials for outdoor furniture, is strong, nonrusting, and easy to move from place to place. It holds up well to the elements and requires minimal maintenance. Aluminum is easily cast into a variety of shapes and styles, from simple to ornate. Because cast aluminum is solid, it is generally heavier than extruded aluminum, which has been formed into a tube.

Resin

Resin. Known for its low cost and Wide availability at discount stores, home centers, and supermarkets, resin, or plastic, furniture is available in a variety of styles. It is durable, easy to clean, and very portable, though its light weight makes it less appropriate for windy areas. A strong gust could send your chair into the swimming pool--or your neighbor's yard!

Outdoor furniture frames

Outdoor furniture frames are generally offered with strap, sling, or cushion seating. Sling, which is great for poolside use, is probably the most popular today. The mesh fabric allows air through, which keeps you cooler and allows for quick drying. Strap seating also works well by the pool. It is comfortable, easy to maintain, and available in lots of colors. Both sling and strap present a sleeker silhouette than cushions.

Cushions

Cushions provide a plusher seating surface for comfort that is more like indoor seating, but require more maintenance than sling or strap. Cushions are generally constructed of foam and polyester fiber batting to inhibit moisture absorption, but they may mildew over time. They require regular cleaning and may need to be replaced after a few years.