Outdoor Furniture

WHAT ARE THE OUTDOOR FURNITURE TRENDS FOR 2019?

Interior trends needn't be limited to the inside of the home, outdoor furniture can make or break a home and current trends should always be considered before selecting furnishings for this space. The year ahead sees a trend for high comfort in the garden, think plush seating, cosy fire pits and plenty of lounging furniture. The outdoor space should become an extension of the homes interior space in terms of comfort and style. oversized outdoor lounges are a must as are wide spacious armchairs. Hanging furniture is on trend and is perfect for creating a secret little hideaway seating nook, think natural materials with a real trend towards bamboo and rattan. 2019 will see a move towards outdoor furnishings with a retro nod, think about using a retro colour palette with pops of strong orange and green. Overall outdoor furnishings should reflect similar aesthetic trends to those of the interior of your home, create your own oasis outdoors!

IS WICKER A GOOD MATERIAL?

Firstly it is important to clarify that there are two different types of wicker on the market; natural and synthetic. Synthetic resin based wicker is ideal for outdoor use and can withstand the elements for many years if cared for appropriately, manufacturers usually include specific care instructions on the bottom of synthetic wicker outdoor furniture to ensure your pieces last. Natural wicker is just that- a natural product and one that is really only intended for indoor use or temporary use in a covered outdoor area such as a verandah or balcony that is sheltered from the elements. For durability and longevity in outdoor furnishings, the only choice is synthetic wicker, keep those precious, irreplaceable natural wicker items in pride of place inside the home or arranged beautifully on your verandah.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN IT?

Routine cleaning is the best way to care for and keep your outdoor furniture in good condition. You should aim to deep clean outdoor furniture around four times a year for best results. For wood products such as teak and wicker, it is best to use a mild oil based soap mixed with warm water and give your outdoor furniture a thorough wipe over and clean with a soft cloth and leave to dry in the sunshine. For wicker items, it is ideal to hose them down regularly to prevent dirt building up in the crevices again leave the future to dry in the sunshine. For hardwood furniture consider annually sanding and applying a fresh protective finish such as a stain or oil to ensure maximum longevity.

For metal outdoor furnishings oxidation is the most common problem. Before cleaning, remove as much of the imperfection as possible using a metal polishing paste or a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water. Aim to wash aluminium based furniture regularly to preserve its natural lustre. Always scrub rust off metal furniture before cleaning and remove any damaged paint. Repaint the surface of your metal outdoor furniture annually if needed using a metal outdoor primer followed by a rust resistant paint. You can also apply automotive wax to metal outdoor furniture to ensure its longevity in the elements. Outdoor furniture made of glass is most effectively cleaned with home cleaning products such as dish detergents or glass cleaner. Begin by removing any stuck on debris with a non-abrasive cloth or scrubbing brush, ensure you also clean the underside of the table to prevent irreversible grime. It is always best to cover your glass outdoor furniture when not in use. Plastic outdoor furniture is best cleaned with a mixture of dishwashing soap or automotive soap, warm water and a soft scrubbing brush. Ensure to wash the underneath of your plastic products to prevent dirt build up. Once hosed clean, restore the shine of your plastic outdoor furniture by applying a coat of automotive wax, this will also aid in preventing sun damage.

WHAT IS THE BEST OUTDOOR MATERIAL?

Choosing the best material is a matter of research and education. It is vital to know how materials compare in terms of price, durability, and of course looks. Outdoor furniture is available in many different materials, each one having its own pros and cons.Things to Consider When Purchasing outdoor living and considering the material it is made from are: aesthetics, durability, weather Conditions and functionality. The top materials used worldwide and recommended for their durability, functionality and style are synthetic wicker, teak and cast aluminium.The majority of good quality, modern outdoor furniture is manufactured or crafted from these robust materials in response to the growing market for outdoor furniture that will withstand the elements and last for many years to come.