How to Buy Deck Furniture

May is almost here, meaning April’s showers will soon be a thing of the past. The birds are chirping, the weather is warming up and you are eager to hold your first outdoor bash of 2011.

You want everything to be perfect. Your deck is cleaned, your grill is prepped and ready, but your furniture leaves something to be desired. You don’t want some dingy tables and chairs to detract from your otherwise awesome barbeque. So maybe it is time to consider upgrading your deck furniture.

This article from Good Housekeeping outlines the three types of outdoor deck furniture.

If you are looking for a classic or elegant look, then wood might be the right choice for you. The three best options for wood furniture are teak, eucalyptus and cedar. These will last outdoors while woods like pine, oak and wicker deteriorate when left outside. Of the three top wood choices, teak is the most expensive, ranging from $950 to $2,700 for a five-piece set. But this durable furniture will last up to 100 years. Eucalyptus, if treated annually, can last just as long as teak, but for a fraction of the price – between $325 and $1,000. Cedar, which costs between $600 and $1000, also needs annual treating and will only last about 20 years. So do your research and figure out which of these woods works best for the look and feel of you deck.

If you want a more modern look, perhaps metal is the way to go. The two smartest options are wrought iron or aluminum. Iron can be fairly expensive, ranging from $600 to $2,300. Also, if not properly maintained and treated, iron will rust and deteriorate. For a rust free option, aluminum is your best choice. While aluminum costs about the same are wrought iron, it is completely rust resistant and so light that it is easy to move.

But if you are looking for a cheaper option, plastic is your best bet. Starting at around $50, plastic deck furniture offers a cheap alternative to wood or metal. Plastic furniture is made to easily stack and store – making it great for the occasional outdoor party. The only downsides to this furniture are its plain look and less than ideal comfort. But beggars can’t be choosers. You get what you pay for.

So you have to ask yourself what is more important to you, style and comfort or affordability and functionality?

Contact Mid-Atlantic Deck and Fence if you have any questions by calling 1.800.833.9310 or click here today!

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