Here are the most common mistakes to avoid when selecting outdoor furniture.

As the weather warms up, many of us look forward to spending more time outdoors. If you're considering upgrading your outdoor furniture, you're not alone. Choosing the right pieces for your backyard or porch can make all the difference in comfort and relaxation. However, outdoor furniture shopping requires a different mindset compared to buying for indoor spaces. Not only must it match your personal style and fit your outdoor setting, but it must also endure the elements.

Finding the perfect balance between style and durability is crucial when selecting outdoor furniture. This can be tricky, and returns often come with challenges, so it’s important to get it right from the beginning. Here's a guide to avoid the biggest mistakes when choosing furniture for your patio, deck, or yard to ensure a great outdoor living experience.

Failing to Measure Your Space

No matter how large or small your outdoor space may be, taking precise measurements is key. As Karen Mooney, president of Ballard Designs, explains, "Without accurate measurements, it’s easy to end up with furniture that’s either too small or too big." Once you find an outdoor collection you adore, create a floorplan just like you would for an indoor space, using actual dimensions to ensure everything fits perfectly and flows together seamlessly."

Ballard consultants offer 3-D renderings, which let you visualize how pieces will look before you finalize your purchase. This is particularly helpful when you’re purchasing several items, as it ensures you won’t end up with something that doesn’t fit or makes the space feel cramped. Other retailers may offer similar tools, so be sure to inquire about these options. 

Settling for the Least Expensive Option

Since outdoor furniture is exposed to weather conditions, it endures more wear and tear compared to indoor furniture, which often makes it more expensive. As Mooney points out, "Good outdoor furniture is truly a long-term investment." If you buy based purely on cost, you may end up with items that won’t stand the test of time and need to be replaced after only a few seasons. Aim to get the best quality within your budget. 

Material is Not the Primary Focus

When shopping for outdoor furniture, Mooney emphasizes the importance of choosing the right material. "Look for furniture crafted from wood, metal, or synthetic weaves that are engineered to withstand both sunlight and rain, ensuring they remain visually appealing throughout the seasons," she advises.

Teak wood is a top contender in outdoor furniture. Mooney states, "Teak is the ultimate wood choice for durability and enduring beauty in outdoor settings. It’s inherently strong, resistant to weather and insects."

Teak can be treated or left untreated based on your aesthetic preference, according to Mooney. "If you opt for the untreated version and expose it to the elements, the natural teak will gradually turn into a lovely silvery-gray hue, which is my favorite way to enjoy teak," she shares. "However, some people prefer to maintain its original color, which requires sealing."

Overlooking the Significance of Quality Upholstery

High-quality upholstery is essential. Mooney suggests buying cushions made from long-lasting, outdoor-friendly fabrics that are easy to maintain. If you’re uncertain about what to choose, you can’t go wrong with Sunbrella fabrics, which come in a wide range of colors, styles, and prints.

Choosing Glass (Occasionally)

Glass is an excellent material for outdoor furniture due to its ease of cleaning and lower cost compared to wood. However, it might not be ideal for areas with strong winds or extreme weather. "If you opt for glass, ensure it's tempered," advises Mooney. "Tempered glass, also called 'safety glass,' is four times more durable than regular glass and shatters into smaller pieces, reducing the risk of injury if it breaks. Additionally, make sure the glass is thick and heavy enough to stay stable in strong winds."

If you live in a windy or storm-prone area, it’s better to avoid glass furniture to prevent unnecessary hassle.

Failing to Properly Cover or Store Your Furniture

If you live in an area where heavy snow is common during the winter months, chances are you're not relaxing on your outdoor furniture or favorite lawn chairs when temperatures dip below freezing. If you have a storage shed, garage, or basement, it might be a good idea to store your pieces there during the off-season.

Alternatively, Mooney suggests using covers to keep your outdoor furniture in excellent condition for years. After all, your outdoor furniture is an investment, and it deserves protection.