Types of Garden Furniture You Should Consider When Ordering

It can be a minefield when trying to decide on the perfect garden furniture set for your outdoor living space. With so many different types, shapes, and sizes where do you start? We have put a list together below on all the different types and their benefits.

Rattan Furniture

Rattan furniture has long been the most popular choice of furniture in the UK for many years, and it still continues to be the number 1 choice. Rattan furniture is made up of synthetic rattan, unlike natural wicker that does not weather well in the harsh British weather.

There are various things to look out for when buying a rattan set. Firstly is the quality of the weave can vary dramatically. PU Rattan or PVC rattan is the cheaper version of synthetic rattan, which in fact is actually more plastic than synthetic. This normally only comes with a 1-2 year warranty, can suffer from UV damage, and can go brittle and snap. PVC rattan also fades within a few years and this is why you pay so much less for these sets.

The best choice, although more money, is a PE Synthetic rattan which has a much longer life expectancy. Warranties normally start from 3-5 years but can be as high as 10 years. It will not fade or go brittle and snap and is much more suited to the British weather. Also, it is extremely important that you purchase an Aluminium framed set and not steel as this will stop corrosion and rust.

Aluminium Garden Furniture

This has certainly been a growing trend in the UK garden furniture sector. Aluminum furniture is bare bone aluminum frames with powder coating on top to finish off the look and image of the set. They come with cushions throughout and normally come with ceramic glass tabletops. They come with a 2-year warranty but are designed to last 10 years plus.

Colors are generally Grey or White and the cushion color will be dependent on the color of the frame you order. Aluminum sets are generally much more modern-looking and a hit with the younger generation. Looking after your Aluminium furniture set is generally a simple job and can be cleaned with warm soapy water. The cushions are normally ok to be washed on a cool wash however try to keep them inside when there is any rain or showers

Outdoor Fabric Furniture

Outdoor fabric furniture is the new kid on the block. Originally used on yachts because of its ability to drain and dry quickly, it can be left out all year round and doesn’t need covering. The material is very easy to clean and can be cleaned by lightly jet washing every so often. If you do get any stains on your material it can be cleaned by using a 50/50 mix of bleach and water and a soft cloth.

Outdoor Fabric Furniture is like having your indoor furniture in your garden just for purely how comfortable it is. There are many different variations of fabric furniture including, Bistro Sets, 4 – 8 Seat dining Sets, Corner sofa, and corner dining sets and not forgetting the stunning sun loungers that are perfect for sunning your body on those hot summer days.

Wooden Garden Furniture

Wooden garden furniture is the classic choice for gardens and still remains a popular choice. There are so many different types of wood to choose from including; Teak, Hardwood, Pine, Cedar, and Reclaimed Wood.

Teak is a very expensive wood but is one of the most durable types you can buy. It has natural oils that make it perfect for outdoor use as it protects the wood from the elements. It is a very hard-wearing wood and will last many years with the correct care.
Hardwood is a cheaper alternative to teak but still offers great durability and weather resistance. It does require some maintenance though as it needs to be treated every year with a wood preserver to keep it in good condition
Pine is the cheapest alternative of all and does require some regular maintenance. It needs to be treated every year with a wood preserver and will only last approximately 5 years.
Cedar is softwood but is still very durable and weather resistant. It has natural oils that make it perfect for outdoor use as it protects the wood from the elements. It is a very hard-wearing wood and will last many years with the correct care.
Reclaimed Wood is recycled wood that has been taken from old buildings etc. It is a very popular choice at the moment as it has a rustic look to it. It is a very strong and durable wood but does require some regular maintenance.

We hope we have enlightened you on what is available on the market, and hope you make the perfect choice when next ordering your garden furniture online.