Your backyard is a crucial part of your home. It serves as the middle ground between the outside world and your residence.
However, your backyard is exposed to external elements, like rain, snow, and even hail in some areas. If you plan to have a sustainable backyard living experience, you should make sure that your furnishings can withstand various weather conditions and last for years to come.
Here are some simple yet classic durable solutions that can elevate the look of your backyard:
Most people plan on entertaining guests al fresco on their patios. That’s why it’s crucial that you find durable seating that’s also stylish at the same time. You can opt for large couches or sofas that can seat a lot of people. This way, you ensure that everyone can find a place in your outdoor space.
If you position your outdoor loveseat around a coffee table or place side tables on either side, you can dine outside without the need for an outdoor dining table.
These are the ideal materials for long-lasting seating pieces:
- Wood—This material is the most flattering for backyards. Wood blends effortlessly into your garden backdrop. While some woods can require a lot of care and will break down under the pressure of the elements, others can be chosen to bring beauty and longevity to your home. With the right wood, and a little maintenance, your furniture will last for years. Teak is perhaps the best type of wood for outdoor furniture for its strength and durability.
- Aluminum—Aluminum furniture is rustproof and easy to maintain. Plus, it doesn’t need painting or other chemical treatments, but it still looks elegant and modern. This material is also lightweight, so you can easily rearrange aluminum pieces when you feel like it.
- Wrought Iron—Another long-lasting material is wrought iron or steel. Aside from being sturdy, it’s also timeless. While it’s heavier than aluminum, this is the best type for those living in windy areas since you can be sure that your furniture will stay in place.
- Recycled Plastic—If you want something very lightweight, though, you can’t go wrong with plastic or resin seats. They’re very easy to clean and are weather-resistant. However, they can lose their shine and deteriorate when exposed to direct sunlight. They can also feel too synthetic or unnatural. For a lighter footprint, choose a recycled plastic option.
- Rattan—On the other hand, if you want the waterproof property of plastic while staying with an organic theme for your seats, you can go for synthetic rattan. This type of furniture is created from coated plastic strands, but it has UV protection to prevent discoloration or fading. Plus, you can choose from a variety of designs.
Tables
Aside from seating for your outdoor space, you also need to consider your tables. Of course, the design you choose for your table should be similar to or, at the very least, complement your chairs. This way, you can stay in line with the aesthetic.
You should still check the material that your tables are made out of. After all, they’ll be exposed to external elements along with the rest of your furniture.
Something for shade
Features that provide shade not only help protect you from the sun or rain, but also offer you a bit of privacy. Pergolas are one of the most popular choices among homeowners. The structure is characterized by its flat roof that traditionally has a lattice or trellis design. It usually offers partial shade, but you can place a screen over it for maximum coverage.
If you want something more substantial, you can opt for pavilions or gazebos, but take note that these fixtures take up a lot of space. The most straightforward shade pieces would be canopies and umbrellas, which have the added benefit of being portable. Not all umbrellas are created equal. Sunbrella is known for it’s easy to clean, long lasting materials. Choose products that will last or even better, have a warranty.
Storage
You also need to think about cabinets and other storage areas. Again, the things in your outdoor space, including furniture and accessories, would be exposed to sunlight and rain. If you have items that you want to protect, or just kept out of the way, you should invest in storage spaces. It’s best to keep the unsightly lawn tools out of the way in a garage or shed. Cover furniture cushions with a durable cover or store them inside an outdoor cabinet when not in use
Centerpiece
If you want your patio to have a focal point, you should make sure that you invest in a piece that can withstand the test of time. Fire pits are the top outdoor design element that most homeowners opt for when purchasing centerpieces for their backyard. Fountains and even swings can also draw the eye of guests and beautify your outdoor space.
Conclusion
Whether you’re going for a major overhaul or just want to refresh the look of your backyard, you should invest in high-quality pieces. Make sure that the furniture and structures you put up can withstand the test of time and any element that it’d be exposed to.
