So, you're ready to start shopping for the perfect patio furniture? That's great! Buying high-quality patio furniture is the best way to turn your home's backyard into a beautiful, inviting, and fun outdoor space.
With competitive price and timely delivery, e-lansure sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.
But, you're probably figuring out pretty quickly that this can be a daunting task. There are so many options to choose from, and surprisingly, a LOT of different materials, brands, styles, and price ranges to consider.
At Patio Productions, we've been doing this for over a decade. And collectively, we have over 30 years of experience in the patio industry. We know all the best brands, we talk to the thought leaders in the industry, we even make and customize our own furniture. So we know EXACTLY what kinds of patio furniture you should be shopping for, and what kinds of questions you should be asking.
With that, we wanted to provide our Patio Furniture Buying Guide to our visitors free of charge. No cost, no signups. Just the best tips to buying patio furniture! Please note that this guide will be updated periodically.
If you have any more questions about buying outdoor furniture ' or if you want to know what's new in ' please don't hesitate to contact us!
When it comes to patio furniture, you've got options galore! Let's go through the main categories:
Now for patio chairs, your tush will thank you for choosing something cushy and supportive. I like rockers and cushioned chairs with plush pads. Woven and wicker options work with or without cushions, too.
When it comes to tables, you can buy them individually or as a set. Think about what you'll use it for ' dining, games, or drinks? Do you need an umbrella hole for shade?
Beyond chairs and tables, you've got benches, daybeds (yes, please!), gliders, swings and stools. The options won't stop!
Let's talk materials because this stuff takes weather beating day after day. You want something that lasts. Here are some of the most popular options:
No matter which material you choose, be sure it's designed to withstand the climate and elements in your area. Durability is key for patio furniture!
Below, we will briefly provide some buying tips for different furniture material types, and also link off to the full buying guides for those materials. Check them out!
Want to furnish your patio with sustainability in mind? The good news is patio furniture brands offer so many eco-friendly designs:
By choosing eco-conscious patio furniture, you help reduce carbon footprint on the planet. And green designs blend beautifully with outdoor living spaces!
Shop Composite Sofa Sets
Shop Composite Dining Sets
Shop Composite Adirondack Chairs
Synthetic, all-weather outdoor wicker is the most popular patio furniture material today, and for good reason. It's a far cry from real, natural rattan wicker ' the stuff you see in a lot of plantation-style homes. Natural rattan is better suited to indoor use, where the plant fibers won't fray and soften. For that rattan look, but with the toughness necessary to withstand year-round outdoor exposure to sun and weather, outdoor wicker is your best bet.
Outdoor wicker goes by many names ' synthetic wicker, resin wicker, all-weather wicker, HDPE wicker, and on and on. It's mostly all the same stuff. Outdoor wicker is a plastic polymer that simulates the look, and often the texture, of real rattan. Because it is made of a versatile plastic, high quality all-weather wickers resist fading in direct sunlight, and are completely waterproof and snowproof.
Some manufacturers sell 'outdoor wicker' furniture that uses PVC wicker. This is a much cheaper option, but we do NOT recommend it. PVC turns brittle in direct sunlight and under constant exposure to water and heat, which completely ruins the longevity of your furniture. For patio furniture that lasts, make sure you choose HDPE wicker. HDPE is nonporous, very pliant, and is UV treated to be all but completely fade-proof. It's also lighter than PVC, so it's easier to rearrange your furniture!
Among HDPE wickers, you'll usually encounter one of two scenarios: in the first, the resin wicker is molded, and then dyed to change its color to the brown, white, or gray hues we commonly see. In this case, you get the durability of HDPE wicker, but the dye is a cheaper method of coloring the final product, and is more prone to fading. Additionally, if any of the resin wicker strands are scratched or cut, the inner material color (usually white or off-yellow) will show through.
In the second scenario, the resin wicker is actually molded by creating individual plastic fibers made from a specific color plastic, and these fibers are then molded together into the wicker 'strands' you see, which are then woven into a satisfying pattern over the furniture frame. This process is much more time consuming and results in a more expensive product, but it also means that if you ever scratch your wicker patio furniture, the 'inner color' will be uniform with the outer color throughout. Also, this style of HDPE wicker is particularly fade-proof, because the material is not superficially dyed. The color you see is the actual color of the material itself.
As far as maintenance goes, keeping your synthetic wicker in top shape is as easy as can be. It is by far the most 'set and forget' of the common outdoor furniture materials. All you need to do to keep it in perfect shape is to just wash it down with a damp cloth and a light application of dish-soap from time to time. This high level of convenience is, in our opinion, the best selling point of synthetic wicker over other patio furniture materials.
Key things to look for when you're shopping for synthetic wicker furniture:
Overall, resin wicker is a great choice for your patio furniture. It is:
Shop Outdoor Wicker Sofa Sets
Shop Outdoor Wicker Dining Sets
Shop Outdoor Wicker Lounges and Daybeds
Aluminum is currently the most popular metal for patio furniture. Aside from being a common frame material for outdoor wicker and wood patio sets, cast aluminum furniture is also a popular option for the 'wrought iron' look without the wrought iron price.
Aluminum is lightweight, easy to care for, and all but completely rust-proof ' it is by far the most weather resistant of the metals.
Aluminum is fairly easy to work into various shapes and styles, leaving the consumer with a lot of aesthetic options to choose from. Cast aluminum can be shaped into almost any form, in a process similar to the wrought iron shaping method.
There are essentially two types of aluminum outdoor furniture: extruded aluminum, and cast aluminum. 'Extruded' aluminum is hollow, whereas cast aluminum is solid. Extruded aluminum is shaped by hand or by a machine, whereas cast aluminum is poured into a mold. The main qualitative differences between the two are:
Both are perfectly viable options, so long as you are aware of the differences. And again, make sure that any aluminum patio furniture you are looking to buy is powder-coated to maximize its lifespan and its resistance to inclement weather.
Caring for aluminum furniture is relatively easy. Aluminum does not rust, though it does oxidize in the presence of high salt content and other pollutants, so if you live near a coast or in a high-pollution area you may need to clean and care for your aluminum furniture more frequently. As long as the aluminum is powder-coated, a lot of these averse effects are mitigated anyway. One to three times per year, we recommend wiping down your aluminum furniture with a damp, non-abrasive cloth. No soap or sealer necessary. You can just hose it off as well, but you risk missing some of the dirt that may have accumulated on the frame over time.
Overall, aluminum is a great choice for your patio furniture. It is:
Shop Outdoor Aluminum Sofa Sets
Shop Outdoor Aluminum Dining Sets
Shop Outdoor Aluminum Conversation Sets
Wrought iron is the oldest patio furniture material in this guide. For centuries, wrought iron has been used for tools, machines, and furniture. It is one of the toughest and most durable metals, and it can be shaped or molded into all sorts of beautiful shapes. Most wrought iron furniture is molded by machines these days, though if you want hand-hammered iron furniture, you can still find that in many boutique workshops.
When comparing the two major patio furniture metals, wrought iron tends to be more expensive than aluminum. It is also heavier and sturdier, making it less prone to denting and less likely to be blown around in high winds.
Unlike aluminum furniture though, wrought iron is NOT rust proof. It requires more attention and maintenance. But if you are willing to put the time into keeping it clean and cared for, your wrought iron furniture will truly last a lifetime. Plus, while cast aluminum molding methods make it so aluminum furniture can be quite ornate and beautiful, there's just something about genuine wrought iron garden furniture that can't be denied ' it is the original 'fancy furniture' material and it still looks timeless.
Caring for wrought iron furniture is a bit more complicated than aluminum, but taking the extra time and effort will reward you in the long run. Once per year, ideally prior to the rain season, you will want to wipe your wrought iron furniture with a damp non-abrasive towel and diluted dish soap, and then seal the furniture with applied spray wax. Thoroughly waxing your wrought iron furniture is essential to protect it from rain damage and rust.
While we tend to prefer aluminum for its convenience, wrought iron is a great choice for your patio furniture. It is:
Shop Wrought Iron Sofa Sets
Shop Wrought Iron Chat Sets
Shop Wrought Iron Dining Sets
Teak is a wood patio furniture favorite thanks to its natural weather resistance and beauty. Here's what to look for:
While pricier than other woods, teak's longevity and resilience make it a worthwhile investment for gorgeous outdoor furniture.
Shop Teak Patio Sofa Sets
Shop Outdoor Teak Dining Sets
Shop Outdoor Teak Lounges and Daybeds
Sling patio furniture is a popular, affordable option made of a suspended fabric sling seat and back. Benefits include:
Pay attention to the frame material, opting for rustproof metals like aluminum or steel with a powder coated finish. Then choose a matching sling fabric color and pattern to suit your style.
Shop Sling Patio Sofas and Loveseats
Shop Outdoor Sling Dining Sets
Shop Outdoor Sling Lounges and Daybeds
Imagine yourself sinking into that cozy cushion on a warm summer night, the bustle of everyday life drifting away. A gorgeous patio set makes your outdoor space oh-so-inviting!
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit aluminum outdoor dining set.
Not only is patio furniture perfect for entertaining, it helps maximize outdoor square footage. The right colors and pieces make your patio feel open and airy.
Since this furniture takes a beating outside, durability is a must. The best materials like aluminum, teak and wicker stand up to rain, sun and wind for years. They require so little maintenance that you get to enjoy your patio, not work on it!
Okay, time to talk design because patio furniture has come a long way! Whether you want modern chic, classic elegance or breezy tropical vibes, there's a style for you.
Let's start with your space. Measure where the furniture will go so you get the right scale and flow. Next, how will you use the space? Lots of parties or quiet breakfasts alone? This helps inform dining sets versus conversation sets.
Think about materials too. Same pieces look totally different in aluminum, teak, wicker and more. Each has maintenance needs, so be realistic (we've all let cleaning slide from time to time).
Shop for quality too. Those incredible clearance pieces won't seem like deals when they fall apart after one season. Read reviews, ask around, and buy the best you can afford. It's worth it!
Patios come in all shapes and sizes, so your furniture should too! Here are my tips for picking the right scale:
Like any good relationship, your patio furniture needs some TLC. Here are my tried-and-true maintenance tips:
With the right care, your patio furniture will thank you with years of lasting beauty and complete comfort. It's worth the effort!
Weather resistance should be a top priority when choosing patio furniture. After all, it lives outside! Materials like aluminum, teak and synthetic wicker stand up to sun, rain and everything in between.
Aluminum is lightweight, rust-resistant and breezy to clean. Teak has incredible longevity and handles moisture like a champ. Synthetic wicker won't crack or fade and comes in so many styles.
No matter the material, it's gotta handle the elements in your area ' don't make concessions here. Beyond durability, consider appearance and how easy it is to maintain that sweet patio furniture in your climate.
I always say protective covers, shade and proper storage help any patio furniture last longer. But starting with weatherproof materials gives you a leg up!
With so many brands to choose from, it helps to compare quality and value when you shop. Pay attention to:
Take your patio furniture to the next level with accessories! Here are some must-haves:
The right accessories pull your whole patio together and let you enjoy outdoor living even more. Have fun choosing stylish additions that show off your personality!
The Following are a few quick blurbs on buying specific accessories, with links to more robust buying guides for the same. Check them out!
Nothing completes the look of your patio quite like some gorgeous patio umbrellas. These classic accessories offer ample shade and style to your poolside or your outdoor dining area.
There are two essential types of umbrellas: market umbrellas and cantilever umbrellas. Market umbrellas are the classic 'pop up' umbrellas, where the shade is centered perfectly over the pole. Many of these feature 'auto tilt' functionality so you can change the angle and direction of the shade. Cantilever umbrellas feature shades that are hung on a lever arm that extends out from an off-set pole, which allows for lots of versatility in umbrella positioning.
Market umbrellas are most common as accessories for patio dining tables, as many tables feature an umbrella cutout in the center that allows the market umbrella to evenly shade the whole table. Cantilever umbrellas are better for sofa sets and poolside loungers, as you can shade a large area without having to work around a pesky centered umbrella pole.
Generally, cantilever umbrellas are more expensive, but also feature more versatility in how they can be set up. Market umbrellas are not only more affordable, but are also easier to store out of the way when not in use.
No matter which type you choose, make sure that the umbrella fabric is made from a marine-grade material. This will ensure that your umbrella is fade resistant and weatherproof, allowing it to last a lifetime and look great the whole way through!
The key takeaways for purchasing outdoor umbrellas are:
Shop Cantilever Umbrellas
Shop Market Umbrellas
Shop Umbrella Bases
When shopping for patio furniture cushions, consider these factors:
The right outdoor cushions make patio furniture more plush, comfortable and durable season after season.
To complete your patio furniture, you'll need outdoor-grade cushions and throw pillows. And no brand is better at outdoor cushions and throw pillows than Sunbrella, the leader in marine-grade fabrics for all sorts of outdoor applications, from umbrellas to yacht covers.
Sunbrella fabrics are available in several grades, each with their own unique qualities (weight, durability, color saturation, and more), but they all share in common an enviable longevity that puts most other fabrics to shame. Learn how our colorful selection of over 400 unique Sunbrella fabrics can improve the appearance, durability, and value of your outdoor patio furniture.
Outdoor storage solutions protect your patio furniture investment during winter and bad weather. Here are storage ideas to maximize lifespan:
Your patio furniture works hard to create an outdoor oasis. A bit of storage TLC keeps it looking beautiful season after season!
To enjoy your patio furniture for years to come, proper care and maintenance are key:
With the right preventative care and maintenance, your patio furniture will graciously serve your outdoor living space season after season. Show it some love!
Lastly, if you are buying patio furniture for a business, your buying needs are going to be a little different. Here's what you need to know:
It's no secret that a cool and cozy patio can do wonder for a business's bottom line. Got a restaurant with a scenic view? A hotel with a really awesome pool? A shopping mall with plenty of open-air spaces? The right patio furniture will help keep your customers engaged with your business, make them spend more time in your establishment, and lead to even more stellar reviews that will draw in all new clientele.
Buying for a commercial project, though, can be a daunting task. It requires a lot of industry insider knowledge and logistical savvy to complete quickly and confidently. Many vendors who sell to 'commercial clients' are actually just drop-shippers who know the brands well, but aren't actually involved at all in the fulfillment aspect of the purchase. Patio Productions is different.
For nearly a decade we have personally supplied hotels, restaurants, resorts, boutiques, shopping malls, and even stadiums with the highest-quality commercial outdoor furniture at very reasonable wholesale rates. We guarantee timely delivery, great pricing and durability that can withstand the abuses of high-volume commercial use. How do we do this, when those 'other guys' can't? Because we aren't just drop-shippers with close connections to many of the biggest brands. We also warehouse most of our own furniture and diligently manage our own inventory, and we also manage all of the shipping, delivery, and fulfillment logistics of any order from start to finish. We work closely with our clients, make suggestions, verify stock or offer alternatives, and then set up all of the deliverables so you, our valued commercial customer, will barely have to lift a finger. Let us do all the heavy lifting, and you can focus on other facets of your business.
Click to Learn More About Our Patio Furniture Trades Program
Whether you are looking for modern, traditional, or just looking for design ideas, give Patio Productions a call and tell us about your commercial outdoor furniture needs!
In conclusion, we hope this comprehensive patio furniture buyer's guide gave you all the tips and tricks to confidently set up your dream outdoor oasis! Carefully considering your space, lifestyle and budget while choosing pieces made to withstand the elements will ensure you get quality, longevity and value. Do your homework on brands, materials and maintenance needs so your furniture graces your patio for seasons to come. With the right patio furniture, you can maximize outdoor living and make enduring memories. Let us know if any other questions come up ' we're here to help bring your outdoor vision to life!
Superior Craftsmanship
Professional outdoor furniture factories use high-quality materials to produce outdoor furniture that can withstand harsh environmental conditions such as UV rays, rain, and moisture. They use advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure that each product meets strict quality standards.
Customization Options
Many outdoor furniture factories offer customization services. We will pair you with a professional outdoor furniture designer, and you can design specific outdoor furniture according to your requirements, including different colors or materials to match your brand or customer preferences.
Wide Range of Materials
From rattan and teak to powder-coated aluminum and stainless steel, top outdoor furniture factories offer a variety of material options. There are also a variety of colors and patterns to choose from, and each material is carefully selected to ensure durability, beauty, and easy maintenance.
Competitive Pricing
By purchasing directly from outdoor furniture factories, you can benefit from factory direct pricing. This eliminates the middleman and ensures better profit margins while maintaining high quality.
Eco-friendly Manufacturing
Leading outdoor furniture manufacturers are using eco-friendly production processes. They use sustainable materials and minimize waste during production, helping companies align with global sustainability trends.
Make sure the outdoor furniture factory has extensive experience in manufacturing specialized products such as outdoor furniture. Check previous outdoor furniture, customer testimonials, and product samples. A factory that is experienced in lightweight aluminum frames, rust-resistant coatings, and weather-resistant designs is more likely to meet high durability standards.
The best outdoor furniture factories offer a variety of materials, such as aluminum, hardwood, and synthetic rattan. In addition, they should also offer customizable finishes, colors, and size options. For outdoor protection, make sure the factory uses waterproof and UV-resistant materials to extend the life of the product.
Choose a factory equipped with advanced production technology, such as robotic welding, powder coating, and precision cutting. If you need a product that is easy to assemble, make sure the factory offers designs with minimal assembly requirements and provides clear instructions.
Proper packaging is essential to prevent damage during shipping. Good factories will provide customized protective packaging for large furniture to ensure safe delivery. In addition, if you plan to export, confirm that the factory can handle export documents, customs clearance, and international logistics requirements.
Make sure the factory adheres to international standards such as ISO for quality management, REACH and ROHS for material safety, and BSCI for ethical business practices. This not only ensures product reliability, but also helps you comply with regulatory requirements in different markets.
A reliable factory will provide a clear warranty policy for defects in materials or workmanship. In addition, they should also provide replacement parts for products such as outdoor furniture, ensuring long-term customer satisfaction. Timely after-sales service is essential to handle large orders and maintain positive business relationships.