Sunday, June 7, 2009

Decorating Your Patio

Before you purchase anything to decorate your patio, you should first prepare a plan or drawing of your patio area complete with exact measurements. You then need to decide exactly what it is you plan on doing with your patio. Is your patio just for you and your family on a beautiful summer evening? On the other hand, do you plan to host Business meetings or parties? These are important questions that need answered before you purchase any patio furniture and furnishings. If you plan to host Business luncheons then you perhaps should make sure your patio furnishings are not a cheap plastic table and chair set. Lay it all out on paper before buying anything. How much space do you have? If you do not have enough space then maybe you should plan to build a bigger deck or patio first. Once you have got your plans drawn up and you are sure the patio is large enough, it is time to head to the store. Make sure you take your plans with you!

There are plenty of different materials used to make patio furniture. Remember what your main use of the patio will be, that will help you decide on your purchase. How much care do you want to put into looking after the patio furniture? Do you want to put it away every night? Most people want to leave their patio furniture right where it is all summer. Therefore, you will need something that can stand up to the elements.

Wooden patio furniture needs protecting with oil regularly unless you choose to paint it or perhaps you will decide to keep that rustic gray 'weathered' look. Unless you choose Teak Wood, Teak has natural oils that protect it from the environment. Aluminum is lightweight and is perfect for a low maintenance patio setting. Wrought iron patio furniture is an old favorite that suits the English garden look. Wicker outdoor patio furniture coupled with the long lasting qualities of resin is also an option. Cafe style, patio furniture is great for a quick break from your gardening. For my money, Teak wood patio furniture is the way to go, Teak is an oily dense wood that combines durability, beauty and quality and is great for outdoor furniture. Teak will naturally weather to a beautiful silver-gray.

Teak wood's density of grain prevents it from splintering. That is the reason why ship builders used it for the ships decks. Teak furniture's natural oils also resist rot and decay. You can keep the golden appearance of new teak patio furniture by simply oiling the teak every year if you do not wish for it to turn a silvery grey.

As you can see, there are many choices to make when selecting patio furniture. Always have a plan before you go shopping. Patio furniture can really enhance your outdoor living space.

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