Patio Dining Sets - Ideas For a Perfect Dining Experience

Tired of staying indoors? It could be lovely to hang out or dine with your family or friends outdoors. No, it doesn't mean you have to drive to a restaurant or a café. You can enjoy outdoor dining without leaving your home. Your patio can serve that purpose very well. This space outside your home is perfect for breakfasts, family meals, and romantic dinners as you get to enjoy the view of your garden and breathe fresh outside air.

To turn your patio into a cozy outdoor dining area, complement it with a great patio dining set. Many patio dining sets made of various materials are available nowadays. Each patio set offers several advantages for every consumer. Your needs and preferences may be different from another consumer. Thus, it's important to choose the patio dining set that best suits your needs. You need to consider several things before you purchase a patio dining furniture set.

The first consideration when shopping for outdoor dining furniture set is the size of your patio. The size and number of the furniture set should be proportional to the amount of available space in your patio.

If you have a large outdoor space, you are free to place as many furniture pieces as the space permits. If your patio is small, it can't accommodate bulky furniture sets-they will only make the space crowded.

Also, consider your purpose for purchasing a patio dining set. How many people on the average will use the patio dining set? You have to determine whether it's just for family dining or for parties with many guests. Majority of patio dining sets are available in five- or seven-piece sets that include a table and four to six chairs.

The other factor to consider is the general weather conditions in your location. If you often experience harsh weather in your area, then go for outdoor dining sets made of metal such as aluminum or wrought iron. In addition, furniture sets made of metal can resist many forms of damage like cracking and warping.

But if you prefer damage-prone furniture such as those made of teak or wicker, you can bring them indoors for storage during extreme weather.

To sum it up, the three most important things that must be considered when shopping for patio dining sets are the size of the patio, the purpose of getting one, and the weather condition in your area. Choosing a patio set based on these factors can help you get the perfect one for your best outdoor dining experience.

Join Shirley Patterson on her outdoor entertaining odyssey as she writes about patio dining setspatio conversation sets at the BestPatioSets.com web site. and other patio topics such as

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Love to Stay Outdoors? Choose the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture

Outside your home, there's definitely no place like your patio. Where else can you enjoy the cool morning breeze while sipping coffee and reading your favorite newspaper? In your patio, you can also spend a lazy warm afternoon with cold drinks while chatting with a friend. Ah, the comfort and lovely ambiance of patio life. Nothing beats the relaxing feel while you spend time in your patio, right?

If you have a newly built patio, then you need to get outdoor patio furniture to make it complete. Among the furniture items that you can place in your patio are tables, chairs, benches, and plant stands.

Make sure that the furniture that you will get for your patio is specifically designed for outdoor use. Indoor furniture usually cannot withstand harsh weather conditions, so it's not a good idea to use it for your patio. Designed to be weather resistant, outdoor tables and chairs come with slits or holes to prevent water buildup and to allow entry of air. This feature is what many indoor furniture pieces lack. In addition, outdoor patio furniture sets are typically made of corrosion-resistant materials such as wicker, teak, cedar, aluminum, wrought iron, and stainless steel. These materials also prevent damage due to weather elements such as rain and intense heat of the sun.

Teak is the most popular patio furniture material because it's the most durable on the market today. Teak outdoor furniture is also known to be attractive, maintenance-free, and cost-effective.

You may also opt for rust-proof and warp-resistant aluminum or stainless steel outdoor furniture. But standard aluminum tends to succumb to harsh elements and strong winds, so it's advised that you get furniture with cast aluminum construction.

On the other hand, cedar outdoor furniture can resist cracking, rotting, and warping. Thus, this type of outdoor furniture can maintain the natural beauty of the wood for more than 10 years.

If you prefer to have both functional and decorative outdoor patio furniture, then go for wrought iron furniture. It can make your patio area look stylish and lively.

Before you shop for outdoor furniture for your patio, it's recommended that you personally visit the stores that offer them so that you can see the items for yourself. Shopping online is also all right, but you have to do a lot of research when choosing the right type of furniture for your patio. Outdoor patio furniture is a worthy investment that you'll treasure for years.

Shirley Patterson writes about outdoor entertaining and other outdoor topics. You can learn more about aluminum outdoor furniture at her web site all about finding the Best Outdoor Furniture.

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Casual Patio Furniture - Make Your Perfect Outdoor Living Space

A patio is a place in the home that is often used for relaxing and family time. This kind of environment calls for a more comfortable type of furniture. There are many different styles and designs for casual patio furniture. This is by far the most popular style of furniture for patios and decks as well. Casual patio furniture allows you to maintain that homey feel even when outside of the home. This type of patio furniture can bring a certain level of warmth and décor to your patio area. Some styles of this patio furniture include Teak, Adirondack styles, wicker and even aluminum. If you are interested in casual patio furniture, you will have many choices as you begin to shop around.

One of the most popular casual patio furniture styles is the Adirondack. The Adirondack style consists of low slung furniture with a wide board style. Of course, within the Adirondack style, there are many different styles and designs. Adirondack furniture comes constructed from many different types of wood as well. Teak and cedar are two of the most popular, due to their natural ability to withstand the elements of the outside world. They are known to be two of the strongest woods. They are not easily warped by outside elements. These Teak or cedar Adirondack casual patio seats will last you for years, age beautifully and will be a great investment. Adirondack furniture is also well known for being very comfortable, so you cannot go wrong when investing in it.

Wicker and rattan are also materials that are great for casual patio furniture. Seating that is made out of wicker and rattan will be very comfortable and relaxing. You can purchase wicker sofas and seats or rattan sofas and seats. Casual patio furniture that is made out of wicker or rattan will come in many different styles. It is not hard to find something that you like when shopping through wicker and rattan seating. Wicker chairs and sofas can come in bigger, more luxurious designs that allow you optimum relaxation. Aluminum patio furniture can also come in casual styles. Aluminum is durable, lightweight and comfortable. Most people imagine that aluminum seating would be highly uncomfortable, but this is not the case. When crafted properly, aluminum can be just as comfortable and relaxing as wicker or rattan.

If you are interested in any style of casual patio furniture, the internet is a great place to start shopping. Even if you're going to hit the warehouse store, you can do your price and comparison shopping ahead of time. If you are willing to shop around and do some research, creating a great casual patio doesn't have to cost a fortune. From the auction sites to the big retailers to craigslist there are great deals to be found. Take your time and make a project out it. Keep in mind small print items such as shipping, handling and tax costs. If the furniture comes in a set make sure it includes everything you need. Sometimes photos show more items that are actually included. Pick the right set of furniture and you'll be enjoying your patio for years to come.

Want more great info, tips and articles to create your perfect casual patio? Visit http://easypatioideas.com today!

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Teak Furniture is the Perfect Choice For Any Garden Or Patio

So, let's take a quick look at teak furniture, a precious addition to any patio set...

Teak is an indigenous hardwood tree found in the hilly terrains of Indonesia and Southeast Asia. Perhaps some of the best timber comes from Java, where strict harvesting and replanting cycles are carried out. Here you'll find tips about buying teak hardwood furniture, as well as information about caring for it, and a short guide as to how much you can expect to pay for some types of furniture.

Nothing will last as long as teak, no matter how you treat it or how much rain it gets

Without doubt teak is the best type of wood for patio furniture, it has a high natural oil content which means you can leave your teak furnishings outdoors for decades. Teak is an extremely dense-grained wood and it is highly resistant to rot, warping, shrinkage and swelling.

Did you know that the first outdoor teak wood furniture was made of recycled wood coming from old sailing ships?

Some early benches still exist now in English public parks that are almost 100 years old. It was naturally due to these qualities that made teak popular with shipbuilders in the first place.

I am glad to be able to recommend a company that really stands by its products. Take a look at the Teak Garden Furnishings that these people have available. It is obvious that they pride themselves on the quality of their products and their customer service.

Generally speaking, teak is not cheap, but it will last you years. You can even put it in the garden and forget about it. Just give it a wash down when it starts getting grubby. So, before calculating your end budget, it is very worthwhile considering that you are never going to need to change your purchase ... although a little care and attention will help your teak furniture to last even longer.

In order to really take care of your investment, you should consider covering your outdoor furniture during the winter months. Click Here to see our page on furniture covers.

It isn't often that you get to feel enthusiastic about a furniture supplier, but I think you will agree that this supplier of Teak and other hardwood Furniture has a selection, high quality, good prices, great customer service and guarantees that deserves a little enthusiasm. Click Here to take a look at their Teak and other hardwood Furniture. I hope after your visit, you will agree with me. If you can find the exact same product for less, they will match the price!

I'm hooked. How much does it cost?

So how much can you expect to pay for teak patio furniture?

Good question. One thing you should know is that there is teak and teak! Some suppliers use handcrafted top quality aged teak with a minimum age of 120 years! This quality of teak has closed pores and a smooth natural feel to it. Other suppliers tend to use a lower grade teak.

This is just an example of some reasonably priced items that we are confident in recommending to our readers. Teak Outdoor Patio Sets)

Well, a top grade teak patio dining chair can cost as much as $600, whereas you can also find fold able teak dining chairs for as little as $100. A classic teak lounger, similar to those found on traditional luxury liners, can start at around $180 and can go up to over $900. Naturally, if you want the best it does have a high price tag.

The classical teak bench, an old time favorite, can start at around $200 and go up to, and over, $1,500. A teak table can start from around $150 and go up to well over $1,600. The variations in the prices of teak furniture pieces depend on various factors, such as the origin of the wood, thickness and quality, fittings, manufacture and joinery, design, 10-year warranty or 30-day guarantee, etc. Think of it as being similar to a Ferrari and a Ford; both work well and will get you to the supermarket, but are they the same?

Not be confused with cedar, shorea, eucalyptus or any other wood. Teak is in a class of its own. As said above, a Ford is a perfectly good car, but it is not a Ferrari. Cedar, for example, whilst resilient, is not the same as teak furniture.

Tyler writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. For more of his articles on patio heaters and garden products, please visit Outdoor Garden Furniture.

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Cleaning And Caring For Patio Umbrellas: Getting The Best Of Your Patio Umbrellas For Years To Come

Patio Umbrellas can be a lasting investment for years to come, offering shade and comfort for your friends and family. But with the heat and humidity that summer often brings, that beautiful umbrella that once served as an oasis can eventually grow grungy, becoming more of a health hazard than a heaven from the heat. And when bacteria and other bad items discolor your umbrella, it won’t be gathering much else but germs.

There is good news left to be had, however: with the proper care, your patio umbrella will be a sound investment for years to come. Unlike other patio furniture, umbrellas take special care and understanding when approaching their needs. Because there are more mechanical parts involved (not mentioning a bigger canopy area), it takes more than a hose and a brush to clean your umbrella off. With the right know how, you too can guarantee your umbrella will be a welcome escape all season long.

The main key of keeping your patio umbrella clean is in knowing how all the pieces work together. This can be broken down into two components: the canopy, which is the cloth top that casts shade on your family and friends, and the frame, which opens and closes the canopy. The frame consists of all the working mechanical parts of your umbrella, including the vertical pole, runner hub, top hub, ribs, and finial. Each of these pieces serves a critical part – and if not taken care of properly, can result in damage or malfunction in your patio umbrella.

Most patio umbrellas (including those made of wood) can be cleaned with a little mild soap, water, and some good scrubbing. Always use a mild soap in the cleaning process – using an abrasive cleaner can wear down the finish of your umbrella, significantly decreasing the life of your umbrella. Use the mixture of mild soap and warm water soaked into an old washcloth to scrub away the dirt and debris from the frame of your patio table. Keep the frame in the open position as it dries, as to make sure all mechanical parts get completely dry, and not rusted over due to a moisture build-up. You can do this as often as your umbrella demands: if you live in an area with lots of dust and pollen, this could be recommended often during the summer months.

For those of you with a wood patio umbrella, you always have the option of refinishing your umbrella if the elements are just too much on it over time. While the refinishing process is relatively simple, making sure your umbrella works afterwards is not. Never attempt to refinish your wood umbrella without taking all the pieces apart first – by not doing this step, you will be asking for more trouble down the line, as the finish could cause your frame to seal together. This will result in a patio umbrella that is better used as firewood during the summer nights, rather than shade during the summer days.

Cleaning the canopy is a much easier prospect than cleaning the frame of your patio umbrella. For most canopy covers, the cleaning process is as easy as getting the cloth wet, using a mixture of a mild cleaner and warm water on a washcloth to scrub down your canopy, and putting upright to dry. Keep the canopy open while drying, to reduce the chance for mildew to grow, and ensure the canopy dries completely. If your canopy requires heavier cleaning, you may want to consider throwing it in a commercial (extra capacity) washing machine with detergent. However, check the tag on your canopy, to make sure that the washing process will not destroy your canopy.

Patio umbrellas can be the perfect addition to your patio furniture, but only when properly taken care of throughout its life. By properly cleaning and caring for your umbrella, you will guarantee a lasting investment that will be cherished by your friends and family for years to come.

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Top 10 Reasons to Purchase a Retractable Awning

Looking for a way to reduce your utility bills or just improve the exterior appearance and usability of your back porch or deck? Investing in a motorized retractable awning can bring you a much greater enjoyment of your back yard patio, and can add beauty and value to your home.

No matter where you may live, the spring and summer sun can be very intense as it beats down on your patio, your deck or your windows. The solution is to install a retractable awning from a reputable company that is built to the highest engineering standards and made from the highest quality materials.

Retractable awnings can be manual or motorized, and are fairly easy to install for the do it yourselfer, or can be installed by a handyman in your area for a reasonable cost. While there are many benefits associated with owning a retractable awning, here are the top ten reasons you should consider purchasing:

10. European engineering and design makes even the largest retractable awnings not only possible, but also desirable for commercial & residential use. Imagine the all of the possible uses, from your back patio to a cozy outdoor seating area for a restaurant. The list is endless.

9. You can have ultimate control over the elements, since your awning is retractable, you can store it when it's not needed, but quickly unroll it when it's needed.

8. The fabric that is used in quality retractable awnings is highly durable, tested, and highly resistant to fading, which means you'll have many trouble free years of use. When it comes time to replace the material, you are only paying a fraction of the cost of replacing the whole unit.

7. Retractable awnings can reduce heat on the interior of a home or a business by as much as 77 percent according to a study by the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

6. You are essentially adding another room onto your home at a mere fraction of the cost of actually constructing an addition.

5. You can install a motorized retractable awning with a remote control that you simply press a button to unroll and retract the awning in about 20 seconds. This motor runs off of a standard household plug in many cases.

4. Retractable awnings do not require much maintenance, and cleaning is a breeze. Simply wash with soap and water when the fabric gets dirty.

3. Retractable awnings are available in many styles, shapes, and sizes. Custom options are also available at an additional cost. Chances are you can find an off the shelf option to match the exterior and style of your home.

2. Awnings offer rain protection, but the true advantage is protection from the sun. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2008 there will be 62,480 new cases of melanoma (skin cancer) in this country. And about 8,420 people will die of this disease this year. Stay out of the intense sun under your retractable awning, but still enjoy the outdoors!

1. For much less than the cost of a covered patio addition, you can add a retractable awning to your home, and enjoy the benefits of shade, rain protection, and cooler temperatures in the summertime.

Jay Kopp is an author, web developer, and SunSetter Retractable Awning owner. Find out more information about purchasing, installing, and owning your retractable awning, and for a limited time get a $200 coupon towards the purchase of your retractable awning at http://www.freeawninginfo.com

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Patio Design and Effects of Color

The four qualities of form, texture, tone and color interact, allowing us to see and enjoy the world around us. It is not really possible to separate one from the other, so looking at how to select color - something your landscape contractor will have had much experience in doing - means considering the other qualities too. This is especially important in a small space like a patio, where every element has to be effective to make it an attractive outdoor space that you will want to make use of frequently.

The materials of which your patio is made will have a color and texture of their own. Stone or concrete, old bricks or wood are rich in textural variety and can vary in color from dull greys and greens through rich earthy reds and browns. If your patio is tiled, you have a rainbow of tiling colors from which to choose. Remember that strongly contrasting textures will reduce the effects of contrasting colors - and the most beautiful bright colors can be overwhelming if they are in a large group. So if your patio has a rough texture, brick or stone perhaps, that will subdue the effect of any colors that may seem too bright in any other small space - those orange-red zinnias perhaps. If, however, the patio is covered in glossy-surfaced tiles it will lend intensity and depth to other colors, so it may be necessary to opt for quieter colors like the soft pink of carnations, or just many-hued green foliage alone.

Distance usually softens colors, giving them a gray appearance when they are far away. A patio, by its nature, keeps colored plants very close to the viewer, where they will appear very clear and hard-edged. If you plant a blue-grey colored shrub - something like a small juniper, Juniperus conferta perhaps (an evergreen with long needles and low, spreading branches that grows happily in sun or part shade) at one end of your patio it will have a "distancing" effect, making the patio seem longer than it really is - a useful trick for a small area.

If you want your patio to have a light, bright look you need to take care that you do not mix too many colors. Real brightness requires that you use a bright color sparingly. On your patio this might mean having furniture a neutral color, stained, or painted white, possibly; as much green as you can with shrubs or vines around the area and just one or two colored items as highlights (red geraniums are traditionally used in this way on many European terraces or in window boxes).

And while you can achieve a lot with flowering annuals, don't overlook the colors in fall leaves, or stark winter grays and blacks, which have a beauty of their own.

Article from Steve Boulden, creator of The Landscape Design Site which offers ideas for patio design, courtyards, landscaping, and garden design. For more design ideas visit http://www.the-landscape-design-site.com/patio.

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Patio Furniture: The Pros And Cons Of The Different Kinds Of Patio Furniture

For many people, relaxation in their homes involves lounging in their patio furniture and relishing the fresh air in their backyards. Parents usually spend weekends unwinding in their patio while the kids play their games in the backyard. Homeowners also invite friends and family over to an occasional barbecue, whose setting is, of course, the patio.

The patio is really the center of many different kinds of outdoor activities for the entire family. This is why it is important to select good quality patio furniture that is durable enough to withstand all this activity, as well as have a style that reflects the homeowner's personal taste in design.

There are actually several kinds of patio furniture to choose from. Among the most prevalent materials used these days are wood and wicker, which both look quite nice in an outdoor setting. Their natural color and material makes them blend well with the backdrop provided by your garden.

Many home owners also opt for wrought iron because they are more durable and require less maintenance, while also giving a look of opulence to their outdoor space. They actually have the romantic look that was very popular in the 18th century. Their weight will prevent them from toppling over in torrential winds, so you can leave them outside practically all year round.

Still there are others who choose to buy plastic patio furniture. This kind of patio furniture is easy to put away right after a gathering because they can stack. They are also easy to move around because of their light weight. However, for the more design-oriented homeowner, plastic patio furniture may not be the best choice as they do not offer much aesthetic value.

There are also less common types of patio furniture, such as glass or vinyl. For those homeowners who have covered patios, regular living room furniture may be brought out to the patio as well. In fact, many people treat patios as their outdoor living rooms, and their patio furniture are sofas and couches that you would normally find indoors. For more info see http://www.homepatiodeck.com/Articles/Patio_Design.php on Patio Design.

Choosing your patio furniture is really a personal decision. Some patio furniture might not work at all for certain individuals, but may be perfect for others. You just have to consider what you plan to be doing often in your patio, and of course, the patio furniture you decide on must reflect the style of your house, and your individual style as well.

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Patio Door Security: Locks And Bars

No price can be too high when it comes to securing the safety of you and your loved ones. Although patio door security has no real benefit from a decorative perspective it’s of vital importance. Nearly 60 percent of all break-ins begin with entry through the back or patio door. This is an alarming statistic that every homeowner should bear in mind.

For the most part, homeowners use either patio door security bars or additional locks on their doors. Unless you live in an area with an above average crime rate, these two measure ought to be adequate in securing your patio door.

Patio door security bars are an effective method. The idea stems from a few years ago when homeowners placed a broomstick (or something similar) in the door runner to prevent the door from being opened from the outside. This quick fix ‘back in the day’ has evolved into a market that offers a variety of options up to the task of securing your patio door in a surprisingly fashionable way. Some very novel designs have recently found its way onto the market, which includes designs with installed alarm systems, permanent patio door fittings or elegant temporary designs.

All of this however should be viewed as secondary to your primary security measure. With this I mean installing some additional patio door security locks. Standard issue patio door locks tend to be flimsy and can break easily when enough pressure is applied.
With a wide range on the market homeowners can choose between locks that are highly visible (generally a good thing as far as security is concerned), models that have an effortless installation procedure, keyed or non-key locks and many other creative designs.

These two measures are the most popular with homeowners and by no means will break the bank, so if you are working on a tight budget, this is the way to go. If you want to take things a little further and live in an area with high burglary rates there are other options. Some homeowners install a security gate in front of their patio door or replace their normal glass patio doors with wire-embedded glass. This will prevent the glass in the door from breaking in case of the burglar attempting forced entry.

Evidently there are some extreme - and coinciding - expensive methods to secure your patio door. However, nine times out of ten, a sturdy patio door security lock and an additional security bar will do the trick.

By: Johnathan Gerber

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Patio Furniture Cushions Are a Great Way to Remodel Your Outdoor Living Space

New cushions for your patio furniture are a fantastic way to do an outdoor remodel on the cheap. There are lots and lots of colors, styles and textures to choose so bring a new look to your patio has never been easier.

A boring pillow just won't do. You need pillows that capture the feeling of your home. It needs to tell your guests where they are and almost become a part of your identity. Now before you say I'm exaggerating, let me say this. Your outdoor furniture is only as good as its cushions allow it to be!

There really isn't any excuse for not upgrading your cushions. They are not that expensive and they come in so many different styles, colors and textures that you are sure to find the right combination to totally deck out your living area. It is easy to find a large selection at your local outdoor store and even more choices are available online.

Key things to consider when looking for new cushions and you should start with how well they fit on the chair or bench. If they don't fit well, then you will be constantly fighting them and they won't provide the comfort that you deserve. Measurements are usually straight forward and can be done by anyone.

Secondly the colour is crucial. Make sure your cushions compliment the colour of the frame of the chairs as well as the walls and surroundings. Matching is not overly important but colour schemes should always be adhered to unless you're part of the new age arty revolution. White or light colours are not always a good idea, especially if you have kids or plan to eat or drink near these couches.

Then there is bounce. You want a cushion that is comfortable to sit on. If your bum gets numb after a while, the pillow is probably too soft. Too hard and you may as well not have a pillow. Make sure the cushion sticks to high standards of comfort.

Lastly is shape and texture. The materials your cushions are made from are actually a very high priority. You need a material that won't rip like cheap plastic. You don't want the cushion to be too slippery to sit on. There's nothing worse than sliding off the seat all the time. Suede cushions are not always a good idea as dust picks up pretty easily and could lead to deterioration. And watch out for rough edges and trimmings. Buy cushions you can be proud of that won't deteriorate.

Shirley Patterson writes about patio cushions and many other other patio decorating ideas. You can see more of Shirley's writing at Best Patio Cushions.

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Patio Umbrellas Are a Great Addition to Your Outdoor Entertaining Area

When you are enjoying a meal outdoors, there is a fine line between being warm and comfortable and becoming unpleasantly hot. Dining outdoors on a nice day is a treat for most folks and adding a patio umbrella can provide you a little extra control to make it that much nicer.

Not having a patio umbrella is almost unheard of in the tropics and other hot and sunny places. The shade that they provide not only keeps you a little cooler but it also minimizes the chance of getting sunburned. If you are having many guests over for a social event, you will often find them grouped together in the shade for these very reasons.

Don't be caught with your guard down either. If you live in an area where thunderstorms are frequent, it helps to know that you have an umbrella over your head in an unforeseen downpour. A patio umbrella is vital to any home serious about accommodating guests out in the open.

In addition to the benefits of the shade that is provided, patio umbrellas also add a sense of style to your patio decor. The fabric is the largest part of the umbrella and it is seen whether it is open or closed. The choices of fabrics that are available are many and you can even get custom fabric installed if you can't find exactly what you are looking for at your local outdoor store.

Remember to match your umbrella to the theme in your garden or on your patio. If you own wooden furniture, it's worth trying to match wood with wood, although it's not essential. Otherwise you have the choice of buying a modern umbrella that will give you fewer hassles and require little effort to open. When it comes to upgrading our lifestyles we are always looking for things that will make living easier.

An easy to move mobile umbrella is another good choice given their versatility. They can be place in any spot that you need the cover and are easy enough to move so that you can adjust them as the sun rises or sets. The trick is to place them to maximize their cover while keeping them out of the way of your guests.

Make sure to choose an umbrella that is the right size but not larger or bigger than you need. If it is too small then somebody or something is always left out of the cover. If it is too large, it might be very difficult to open and close or to move around if it is a portable version. Overall patio umbrellas are a great investment in your outdoor entertaining enjoyment.

Shirley P. enjoys her outdoor entertaining. You can learn more about outdoor patio furniture at her web site Best Outdoor Patio Furniture.

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Using Luxury Patio Furniture to Transform the Home Into a Tropical Paradise

Can't make it to the beach this year? Times are tight, but if your plans to economize mean cutting out the vacations, consider spending a little extra on beautifying your home. A few choice pieces of luxury patio furniture can turn a backyard in a Garden of Eden, so you'll never want to leave home again. Even in you don't want to invest in a full-scale patio set, or if you already have one, one or two indulgences is all you really need. Here, now are a few suggestions:

Hammocks
In the old days, a hammock consisted of woven rope tied precariously in between two trees, and you were lucky to find two trees the right distance apart. Today, the classic white woven rope is still around, but now pretty much all hammocks are free-standing, so they can easily be moved and are steadier. As far as luxury patio furniture, having a hammock in itself can be considered a luxury, not because they're expensive, but because they afford their owner the most luxurious of relaxation. However, modern innovation has come up with some fancy and hip new designs, bestowing upon some hammocks the luxury moniker. Fancier models are made with nylon, chenille and more, and come in a myriad of colors and shapes. Some are big enough for two people, while the hammock chair is a popular and more compact option.

Cabanas
Nothing says lounging by the pool in style like a cabana. Whether or not you actually own a pool is unimportant; adding a cabana to your luxury patio furniture is the apex of elegance. Most types resemble an oversized wooden, four-poster bed with a roof. Meant to comfortably seat anywhere from 2 or more people depending on the type, cabanas come with a weather-resistant mattress and pillows. Some also feature canvas siding, which can be unfurled for added privacy.

Hot Tubs
A perfect fit for patios and decks are of course, hot tubs. When it comes to luxury patio furniture, hot tubs are incomparable and absolutely synonymous with relaxation. What most folks don't realize is that hot tubs are more affordable than people think. Sure, the fancier models will run upwards of $5,000 but there are pared down versions which are just as good for under $1,000. Perfect for relieving muscle pain and tension, hot tubs are enjoyable for all ages.

Outdoor Saunas
Bring the spa home with your very own sauna. Passed down from Finnish tradition, these rooms utilize a dry or moist heat, often employing water poured over hot stones. The idea is that the heat cleanses and exfoliates the body from toxins. Added benefits included are that saunas tend to alleviate bronchitis, asthma and other respiratory disease. They are also proven to lessen rheumatoid arthritis. Saunas are usually made from wood, especially cedar and are traditionally rectangular or round-shaped. They do not take up too much room and make an attractive addition to luxury patio furniture, especially with matching woods.

Fire Pit
Capture the ambiance of a beachside bonfire with a safe and beautiful fire pit. Though there are many affordable versions on the market, high end fire pits and outdoor fireplaces can be very ornate. While traditional fire pits and chimineas tend to be constructed from stone, brick and metal, but some newer versions feature a fireproof see-through glass frame. Some fire pits are so compact they fit on the table and can be brought (with caution, of course) inside to a sunroom.

You don't have to spend thousands of dollars in renovations to achieve an enviable luxury patio furniture setup. All it usually takes is just one well-thought accent, whether that's a sauna, a fire pit, etc. to reinvent your backyard and turn it into a home away from home.

Tonya Kerniva is an experienced research and free lance writing professional. She writes actively about Luxury Patio Furniture and Patio Sets.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tonya_Kerniva

Outfitting Your Patio With a New Patio Furniture Set

If you plan on getting new patio furniture soon, think about getting a patio furniture set. Patio sets are a great way to jump start a new outdoor living space by getting a matching set of outdoor furniture. You might even save a little money in the process.

Patio sets usually consist of one table and four chairs but the number of chairs can vary depending on the size of the table, the space in your garden or your own specific needs. Patio sets are generally built for outdoor use so the majority will be made from metal materials or wood. Some patio sets are complimented with cushions to provide extra comfort, something that is recommended for hard outdoor furniture.

The best thing about buying a patio set is that is saves you the hassle of picking out the components yourself. There is so much variety available that the chances of you finding the perfect patio set for your environment are very high. Just look up the best places in your area or do an online search to find packaged solutions that suit your style and needs.

One of the most important aspects to address is the space you have for placing your furniture in your backyard. Don't forget to allow for extra room to walk around the table and chairs when the chairs are pulled out away from the table. Beyond space, you need to prioritize costs, styles and materials to help you limit the range of possibilities to arrive at a final choice that will work well for all of your requirements.

There are a couple of different types of sets that you can choose from and determining your primary use scenario is important to make the right selection. If you intend to serve meals outdoors then a dining set is an optimum choice. If your primary goal is to entertain, then a conversation set might be a better choice. A conversation patio set is a coffee table with appropriate sized chairs. The shorter chair height and the slightly reclined chairs provide for a more relaxed atmosphere.

If you have a large family or many friends and you plan to invite them around for breakfast quite often, choose a patio set with a large table and many chairs. If it gets very hot where you live, make sure your set comes with an umbrella or two. Remember also to place your outdoor dining area out of the wind if your area is known to get windy.

Shirley P. is an avid outdoor entertainer. She enjoys writing about a variety of patio sets including patio dining sets at Best Patio Sets.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shirely_Patterson

Patio Chair Cushions – How to get the most from your investment.

In the hunt for the perfect patio chair cushions to add the final touches to your outdoor space you've probably noticed that patio chair cushions can cost you anywhere from pennies to hundreds of dollars. How do you know what is a reasonable amount to spend? How do you know if you're getting your money's worth? Here are three tips to make sure you get the best cushion for your dollar.

Tip #1 Good quality manufacturing is your first objective; the longer your patio chairs cushions life, the better your return. Here are some things to look for to make sure the patio chair cushions you're thinking about are the right ones. If you're going to spend $100 on a cushion, you certainly want to make sure that it is going to last.

-Durable fabrics like cotton are essential. Cotton canvas is soft, durable, and it can be washed. While cotton may cost a bit more than plastic or vinyl, it is definitely more comfortable and it will last longer because it won't crack.

- Superior manufacturing. Look for cushions that have reinforced stitching, reinforced zippers, and reinforced piping to protect the seams these little details mean that your cushions won't rip the first time someone sits on them.

-Patio chair cushions can have a variety of fillers; the best filler for your dollar is a high density foam core not only because it's durable but because it keeps its shape. Take the sit test to determine how thick you want your cushions to be.

Tip #2 Make sure your cushion meets the needs of your furniture. This means that if you have two beautiful Adirondack chairs, then you will want to fit them with patio chair cushions designed for Adirondack chairs. A chaise has three to five sections, a chaise cushion should have three to five sections too; it should fit perfectly.

When setting up my outdoor space I fell in love with two beautiful chemise cushions. They were of course designed for interior chairs, who on earth would buy chemise cushions for the outdoors? I did. With the mental note to always bring them inside when the weather looked bad, I placed them on my bistro chairs and was happy. The indoor chair cushions just didn't work or fit well. There were no ties to secure them to the chairs either.

Well you can guess what happened. These expensive chair cushions did get left out in the rain but worse, I had to go on a neighborhood hunt for them after a particularly windy day.

Lesson, if you're going to invest in patio chair cushions make sure that they're designed for outdoor use and that they're designed to fit your specific chair. It's incredibly embarrassing to have to knock on your neighbor's door and ask for your chair cushions back.

Tip #3 Buy patio chair cushions that you like, however keep in mind that if you purchase patio chair cushions in a neutral or at least a solid color, you will be able to get use out of them no matter how your tastes or life change. Life changes quickly. One day we're chasing little children around our back yards and we need our outdoor furniture to be sturdy and family friendly. Soon our children have left home and the back yard becomes more of a retreat, a quiet place to go to read, garden, or simply nap in the sunshine. You expect your furniture to last through the years and change with you. If you make sensible patio chair cushion purchases, you can expect the same longevity.

If a patio cushion set feels out of your budget, consider how long you plan on keeping them. 5 years? 10 years? More? A $50 dining chair cushion averages out to $5 a year over ten years. That makes the $20 cushion that you have to replace after a season look expensive.

Cheap cushions are just that, cheap; the fabric doesn't hold up, the seams pop, and after a few weeks they become lumpy and uncomfortable. Be willing to pay a few more dollars and you'll have beautiful patio chair cushions that will last the life of your outdoor space.

About the Author

Make your own outdoor living space more comfortable with patio chair cushions from PatioToys.com. Patty Tudor provides tasteful outdoor furniture and accessories for discriminating shoppers.

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Quality Patio Cushions - 6 Factors to Consider

Patio cushions can be expensive. Although you can buy them in discount stores you will not always find the best quality there and you can end up with cushions which only lasts one season.

In many cases you are better off paying extra for something which will last for a long time - you get what you pay for. What makes a quality patio cushion so expensive is that

1. It has to be Waterproof

Patio cushions need to be waterproof so that they can stand up to a little light rain and the occasional downpour not to mention splashes from a pool.

2. It has to Be Comfortable

The material, while waterproof still has to be soft to the skin. This requires an outdoor fabric with special properties. The foam inner of the cushion must be thick and firm enough so that you don't feel the hard chair through the cushion.

3. It has to be Quick Drying

The best cushions are filled with quick drying foam or Dacron which is more expensive than standard foam. Standard foam tends to hold onto water like a sponge and prevents the cushion drying out quickly

4. It must be Resistant to Mildew

Quality cushion fabric is treated to be resistant to molds and mildew so that a little damp does not ruin the cushion.

5. It must be Hardwearing

Patio cushions are designed to be used regularly throughout the warm months of the year - which in some places can be all year round. To make hardwearing cushions the best quality cushions have reinforced seams, zipper closures and piping which adds to the cost.

6. It must be Fade Resistant

Patio cushions are out in the sun for long periods - without some kind of UV resistance the colors would fade very quickly and the beautiful colors you chose to decorate your patio furniture would be no more.

When you see all the qualities a good patio cushion needs to have you will see why they can be expensive. Be sure to check out any patio cushion you are considering against these criteria to make sure it will live up to your expectations.

For more advice on getting the very best quality and how to buy patio cushions for your garden furniture see the 5 steps to choosing patio cushions guide at http://patiocushionsforyou.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janice_Elizabeth_White