Purchasing patio furniture for your outdoor commercial space is already expensive, but buying the wrong kind of outdoor furniture can cost you even more. Just because a piece of furniture looks nice when it’s brand new, doesn’t mean it will be able to withstand years of use and exposure to the elements. But how do you tell the poor-quality furniture from the pieces that will look great for years to come? Start by reading this guide and understanding the following:
- How to find the right material
- How to make all patio furniture comfortable
- How to maintain your high-quality patio furniture
The Right Materials
Choosing the best patio furniture for your outdoor space starts with picking the right materials. Not all patio furniture is created equally, and quality can greatly vary depending on what your pieces are made of. If you want to avoid quickly deteriorating patio furniture and premature repairs and replacements, make sure your furniture is made of one of these durable materials:
Aluminum
Aluminum patio furniture is a popular choice for outdoor venues. Metal outdoor furniture in general is extremely tough and will last a long time, but each type of metal has its own benefits and challenges. For example, aluminum patio furniture is particularly resistant to rust and corrosion, as well as easy to clean. This makes it a great option for humid environments where rust can quickly destroy other types of outdoor furniture. Aluminum patio furniture is also lightweight, which can be useful if you frequently change the layout of your space, but not ideal for areas with high winds. Additionally, aluminum can accumulate scratches and dents over time, harming its appearance.
Steel
Just above aluminum in durability is steel patio furniture. This material is nearly immune to rust and corrosion, especially when powder coated. This doesn’t just add a protective layer though. Power coating can come in various colors, giving your steel patio furniture a whole new look. While literally tough as nails, steel patio furniture can become very hot very quickly during the summer months. This can make it less desirable to use, but high-quality cushions or covers can be purchased to combat this issue.
Wrought Iron
Of all the metal outdoor furniture, wrought iron pieces are the strongest. They can withstand all types of weather conditions, from rain to snow to wind to fluctuating temperatures. Part of this is due to their weight as they can’t be easily moved around by the wind. This can be a double-edged sword though if you need to move your patio furniture often. Not to mention wrought iron patio furniture is typically the most expensive of the metal outdoor furniture options, so be sure to budget accordingly if you choose this material.
PVC Mesh Fabric
Metal outdoor furniture isn’t the only durable option for your space. PVC mesh slings may not be as strong as metal, but they are still incredibly sturdy. Not to mention, they are generally cheaper than metal outdoor furniture. PVC mesh fabric specifically is also waterproof and fade resistant, so it can stand up against heavy rains and sunny days. It should be noted though that mesh slings need to be washed regularly to remove any dirt, debris, or stains that could quickly become permanent.
Comfortability
Your patio furniture could be the most durable set in the world, but you will have wasted your money on it if no one wants to use it. And while metal outdoor furniture may seem uncomfortable, this couldn’t be farther from the truth. High quality metal outdoor furniture can be comfortable all on their own when made right. But cushions can easily be added to metal chairs to make them more enjoyable to rest in. But if you want these cushions to last a long time, be sure to choose weather resistant options with removeable, washable covers. These cushions may not be as durable as metal, but they will last far longer than regular cushions exposed to the elements.
Maintenance Needs
Every piece of patio furniture needs regular maintenance to last longer and maintain its appearance over time. However, some materials, even high-quality ones, need more maintenance than others. This is important to know before you make a purchase, otherwise you risk purchasing patio furniture that deteriorates quickly because it didn’t get the maintenance it needed. While metal outdoor furniture may be incredibly durable, and some even rust resistant, issues can still occur if not treated right away. And each problem will require a different solution:
- Rust: If rust does appear on your metal patio furniture, clean it off with water and a non-abrasive soap mixture. Clean patio furniture regularly to ensure no rust sneaks up on you.
- Mold: Scrub off any mold or mildew with equal parts water and white vinegar. Just be sure to wear protective gloves, goggles, and a mask while doing so.
- Discoloration: Oftentimes, discoloration happens thanks to rust, mold, or mildew. After applying the proper cleaning solution, powder coat your metal outdoor furniture to keep it looking new.
Regardless of the climate you live in, your patio furniture needs to be covered or stored away when not in use. This will help protect your outdoor furniture from the elements and keep it lasting longer. All this maintenance is necessary to ensure your high-quality patio furniture lasts as long as possible. If you are unable to regularly maintain your patio furniture, it will need to be repaired or replaced sooner than it should be.
High-Quality Patio Furniture FAQs
What makes patio furniture “high quality”?
High quality patio furniture is made from durable materials, resists weather damage, stays comfortable for everyday use, and needs minimal maintenance over time. Commercial spaces should look for heavy duty construction and long-lasting finishes.
How do I choose the best patio furniture?
Start by considering your climate, the amount of daily traffic, how often staff can maintain it, and whether the pieces need to be rearranged often. These details help you decide which materials and designs will perform best.
How does aluminum patio furniture compare to steel or wrought iron?
Aluminum patio furniture is easier to move and resists corrosion well, while steel and wrought iron are heavier, stronger, and more stable in windy conditions. Your choice depends on weight needs, climate, and overall durability expectations.
What are the advantages of metal outdoor furniture over plastic or wood?
Metal outdoor furniture offers superior strength, longer lifespan, better weather resistance, and stronger load capacity than most plastic or wood options. It is often considered the best patio furniture for heavy public use.
How much maintenance does aluminum patio furniture need?
Aluminum patio furniture is low maintenance. It typically needs simple cleaning with mild soap and water, along with periodic inspections for scratches or dents that may require touch ups.
How do I prevent rust on metal outdoor furniture?
Routinely clean off dirt and moisture, inspect for small scratches, and apply touch up paint or powder coat when needed. Even rust resistant finishes last longer with regular care.
How can I keep patio furniture from blowing away windy areas?
Choose heavier materials like steel or wrought iron, add weighted bases, or anchor certain pieces to the ground. Aluminum patio furniture can be used but may need additional weighting.
Are mesh sling chairs durable enough for commercial use?
Yes. PVC mesh slings are durable, fade resistant, and easy to clean. They may not last as long as metal outdoor furniture, but they perform well when properly cleaned and maintained.
How often should patio furniture be cleaned?
Clean patio furniture at least once a month during high use seasons. In restaurants, hotels, and community pools, weekly cleaning is often recommended to prevent mold, mildew, and discoloration.
Do I need to store patio furniture during the off season?
Yes. Even the best patio furniture lasts longer when covered or stored during extreme weather. Protecting your investment during the winter helps reduce rust, fading, and cracking.
Restore Your High-Quality Patio Furniture So It Lasts Even Longer
Even the best patio furniture will eventually lose its shine. But picking high-quality sets and performing regular maintenance will keep it looking like new for years to come. When your patio furniture does start to look worn-out, you don’t have to make an expensive replacement purchase. Professional restoration services can transform your old patio furniture into something new. Contact us today and speak to one of our experts about your patio furniture restoration needs.