Patios make Summer go ’round. The right set of furniture brings the whole family together and gives your space an instant upgrade. However, finding that perfect set can feel overwhelming. There are so many styles, sizes, materials, colors, and types of patio furniture to choose from. In this outdoor living buying guide, we’ll help you narrow down your options by answering six critical questions.
1). What Are the Types of Patio Furniture?
There are many different types of patio furniture to choose, depending on how you like to relax. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular options:
Picnic Tables and Dining Sets — Perfect for meals on the patio, these include a table and matching chairs or bench.
Conversation Sets — These cozy sets are great for quiet evenings outdoors and include comfortable seating and side tables, arranged to encourage socializing.
Bistro Sets — Bring a café vibe to your home with a small table and two chairs, giving you an intimate space for dining, chatting, and enjoying the fresh air.
Bar Sets — Stools and high-top tables and chairs are a great option for casual drinks and dining.
Adirondack Chairs — Lean back into this classic seating, ideal for gathering around your fire pit or relaxing on the beach.
Rocking Chairs — Rock the day away with our sturdy and comfortable rocking chairs, adding a bit of movement to your porch.
Armchairs — Some swivel, some don’t, but nothing can beat a classic armchair.
Lounge Chairs — Catch the sun’s rays with a reclining lounge chair that helps you embrace vacation mode right at home.
Sofas and Sectionals — Your patio furniture can be just as comfortable as your couch, with durable cushions that make hanging outside your favorite way to unwind.
Benches — Need to squeeze several people into one seat? These are great for large gatherings to fit as many people as possible around the table.
Porch Swings — Cozy up with a loved one and enjoy the weather with porch swings that make your patio feel that much homier.
Side Tables — Set down your drink, add some seasonal decor, or switch up the furniture arrangement with side and coffee tables.
Accessories — Finish up your patio furniture design with umbrellas, fire pits, and more.
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2). What is the Best Material for Patio Furniture?
Outdoor seating can come in a variety of materials, from natural options like wood to synthetic materials like poly. Here’s info on the four most popular materials for patio furniture.
| Durability | Maintenance | Appearance | Comfort | Price | |
| Wood | Resists water, pests, and decay, but can splinter and crack over time. | Should apply an annual wood sealant to prevent moisture damage. | Classic look with many wood species to choose from. | Relatively comfortable to sit in. | More expensive. |
| Poly Lumber | Heavy, durable, and water-resistant. | Low-maintenance and easy to clean. | Timeless look that comes in a variety of styles and colors. | Comfortable on its own, or can be elevated with cushions. | More expensive. |
| Metal | Durable, heavy, and corrosion-resistant. Some types require a protective coating to prevent rust. | Easy to clean, but requires touch-ups of its protective finish when it chips over time. | Modern look that comes in a variety of finishes and colors. | Absorbs heat, and is more comfortable with a cushion. | Affordable. |
| Resin Wicker | Weather-resistant, durable, and lightweight. | Low-maintenance and easy to clean. | Cheaper sets can look unnatural and plasticy. | Pairs best with cushions. | Affordable. |
Most of the patio furniture you’ll find at Penn Dutch Structures is made of poly lumber. There are a number of benefits to poly that make it a popular choice for outdoor furniture:
- Sustainable — Poly lumber is made from recycled materials, including post-consumer plastic bottles (like milk jugs or detergent bottles). The finished material is over 90% recycled plastic by weight, making this type of patio furniture an eco-friendly choice.
- Color Stable — Poly lumber contains a UV-inhibited pigment that keeps the color of the finished product saturated and prevents fading.
- Durable — Different materials for patio furniture are susceptible to wear and tear. Wood furniture will splinter and crack. The powder coating on aluminum furniture will begin to chip away. Metal furniture can rust. Poly lumber, however, is extremely durable. Because it does not absorb moisture, it is resistant to cracking, peeling, and rotting.
- Low Maintenance — Additionally, poly furniture is very low-maintenance. There is no need for annual waterproofing, painting, or staining. All that is needed is periodic cleaning. Use a simple solution of 1/3 bleach and 2/3 water, with a soft brush or rag.
- Color Choices — Poly lumber lets you choose from many color options without having to do any painting yourself. Pick a color that best represents your style, from neutrals like gray, brown, or black to bright hues like yellow, purple, red, or green.
3). How Do I Accessorize My Patio Furniture?
You can’t just buy a set of outdoor furniture and call it a day. For the best results, consider a few accessories.
- Fire Pits — A chilly night doesn’t have to force you indoors. Light a fire, roast some marshmallows, and enjoy unforgettable nights with your family.
- Umbrella — Add more shade with umbrellas that let you lounge outside all day long.
- Seat Cushions — These encourage people to sit outside longer, and add pops of color and patterns to your patio, giving it a stylish look.
- Lighting — Decorate your patio with string lights or lamps so the fun doesn’t end after the sun goes down. This helps you get more use out of your furniture.
- Outdoor Structures — Pergolas and pavilions create a cozy nook to hang out in, adding shade and privacy to your patio.
4). Does Patio Furniture Need Maintenance?
Yes, patio furniture needs maintenance. But the exact steps to follow depend on the material of your pieces.
Wood requires yearly oiling and sealing, plus regular cleaning to keep it in shape. Aluminum and steel need rust touch-ups and the occasional light wash. Wrought iron needs rust prevention, and resin wicker needs a good cleaning every now and then. Poly lumber just needs spot cleaning to remove dirt.
When the patio season is over, the easiest way to protect furniture is to remove it from the elements entirely. However, if storage space is limited, covering your patio furniture is your next best option. A build-up of leaves and debris on your furniture creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold during the Winter months. Make sure you protect your furniture from freezing temperatures and excess moisture.
So when the weather gets cold, consider storing or covering your furniture to help it last longer.
5). How Do I Pick the Best Type of Patio Furniture for Me?
The best type of patio furniture for you depends on your lifestyle!
Budget
There is patio furniture available at every budget level. Knowing the amount you have to spend will help you focus on the furniture options that are right for you.
Space
It’s important that you know the measurements of your outdoor space, and how you plan to use each area of your deck or patio. Will you use one side for dining and dedicate the opposite side for relaxation? If so, note how big each area is. Knowing how much space you have will ensure that you don’t purchase pieces of furniture that over- or underwhelm your patio.
Use
When shopping for patio furniture, think about how you spend time outdoors. Do you eat a lot of meals outside or host Summer barbecues? Do you start your day with a cup of coffee or wind down at night with a good book on your patio?
Different types of patio furniture are best suited for different types of outdoor activities. How you plan to use your space is a big factor when choosing which furniture to buy.
Design Style
Your design preference also makes a big difference. Do you prefer a traditional, farmhouse, or Bohemian look? Do you want something natural or something bright and colorful? This will help you narrow down your options and find the perfect set.
6). Where to Buy Patio Furniture?
Shopping for patio furniture can be done in-person or online at Penn Dutch Structures! We have locations in Shrewsbury, PA and Finksburg, MD so you can see the sets for yourself, try them out, and find one that’s comfortable and fits your style.
Patio furniture is an investment, and we understand that. That’s why we offer a five-year warranty on all purchases, and make sure each piece is built to last with durable materials that can stand up to harsh weather. Hand-crafted with Amish techniques, each piece is a statement that takes your outdoor hangouts to the next level.
We offer four collections so you can find a style you love:
- Finch Collection
- Country Garden Collection
- Wooden Furniture Collection
- Outdoor Essentials Collection
Make This Summer The Best One Yet
Request a quote on our outdoor furniture and start designing the patio of your dreams. Check out our coupons (updated monthly) to save on your next purchase.
