When looking for the appropriate decorative items to place on your restaurant patio, you’ll need to take a number of aspects into consideration. Purchasing outdoor furniture may be a significant financial commitment, so it’s critical to choose a material and upkeep level that is appropriate for your needs. Each sort of material has its own set of advantages as well as cleaning requirements. Your furnishings should also be in keeping with the general aesthetic of your restaurant. When researching patio furniture alternatives for your outside restaurant space, keep this useful tip in mind.
Aluminum
When it comes to constructing outside areas, aluminum patio tables and chairs are a popular choice. It’s inexpensive, won’t rust or fade, and is quite lightweight. Furthermore, aluminum can withstand the effects of extreme weather conditions. Powder coating is a good choice since it offers a protective covering for furniture when it becomes heated in the summer sun. Look for rustproof hardware, smooth welds, and UV-resistant coatings to ensure the highest level of quality. Cast aluminum is produced by the use of molds and is hence lightweight, but wrought aluminum is heavier and so more durable. Aluminum takes relatively little upkeep and is quite durable. All that is required is a moderate soap and water wash, with no use of abrasive chemicals or pressure washing. It is possible to apply mineral oil or auto wax to provide additional protection, although this is not required.
Steel
In search of a smart, modern design for your outdoor space? Look no further. Steel may be the best material to use. It is somewhat heavier than aluminum but far lighter than iron. Cushions are essential because, like most metals, they may get very hot when exposed to direct sunlight. Because stainless steel is rustproof, it requires less maintenance. Every now and then, wash with mild soap and rinse well with water.
Wrought Iron
From traditional scrollwork to more contemporary designs and finishes, there is wrought-iron patio furniture to suit every taste. Wrought iron furniture is good for windy areas since it is the heaviest of all metal furniture; nevertheless, it can be difficult to transport due to its weight. For added comfort, pair wrought-iron pieces with cushions that are tied to the seat. This furniture should be cleaned with gentle soap and water on an as-needed basis. Wrought iron is rust-resistant, but it is not rust-free, therefore it may require minor touch-ups in the form of paint. To keep rust to a minimum, keep the furniture indoors throughout the winter.
Teak
Teak patio furniture reigns supreme over the rest of the patio furniture jungle. Teak is one of the strongest timbers available, and its inherent resistance to water, rot, and insect damage makes it an excellent choice for outdoor furniture. Because of the natural oils that protect it, this wood does not require staining or painting, making it a low-maintenance alternative for homeowners. When it comes to long-lasting patio furniture, teak wood may be your best option because of its 100-year durability rating. Teak should be cleaned on a regular basis to keep it from discoloring and developing mildew. A simple and effective remedy is to mix 2/3 cup dish detergent and 1/4 cup bleach in 1 gallon of warm water and let it sit for 15 minutes. Scrub the wood with a soft bristle brush until it is clean, then rinse well and allow to dry. Teak cleaning purchased from a retailer may be required for very stubborn stains. Tung oil is typically advised, however linseed oil can also work well in this situation. Some teak-specific oils have beneficial ingredients like as UV and mildew inhibitors, which make them particularly valuable. Every two to three months, oil your furniture, making sure that the wood is clean and dry before applying the oil to it.
Cedar
Because cedar is a soft wood, it is more susceptible to damage from the environment and requires more maintenance than hardwood alternatives. Cedar furniture will age to a grey sheen if not sealed or painted, but the natural oils in the wood repel insects, germs, and fungi, making cedar patio furniture resistant to deterioration and rotting.
Eucalyptus
When coated with a water-based acrylic sealer, eucalyptus is a durable hardwood that is resistant to rot and moisture damage. It may last almost as long as teak if properly cared for. Eucalyptus is a renewable resource that can be harvested ethically and is abundant in supply, making it an environmentally acceptable and cost-effective alternative to teak furniture.
Acacia
Acacia is a widely sought-after wood for outdoor furniture because of its durability, smooth surface, and range of rich tones it offers. It is a rapidly growing hardwood that is resistant to the environment and offers a less expensive alternative for the frugal buyer looking to stretch his or her budget.
Rattan and Wicker
Although the phrases rattan and wicker are sometimes used interchangeably, they really refer to two distinct types of materials. Rattan is a natural vine that is frequently used in the production of furniture, and wicker is a weaving method that has been around for millennia. The weaving creates lightweight, comfortable furniture that may be used both outside and indoors to create a rustic or coastal image, depending on the weave. Despite the fact that some natural wicker furniture has been coated with UV inhibitors, natural wicker is subject to the environment and can fade when exposed to direct sunlight. All-weather wicker has a similar appearance to natural wicker, but it is used and cared for in a completely different way. Synthetic fibers are wrapped around an aluminum frame to create all-weather wicker, which is then treated with a weather-resistant finish to make it last longer in the elements. It can withstand exposure to rain and other harsh conditions without suffering any negative consequences, and it is resistant to fading. To sum it up, it’s the pinnacle of outdoor elegance and durability. Clean up dirt on a regular basis with the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner, and clean up spills as soon as they occur. Wash with a mild detergent and rinse well with water, allowing the item to air dry entirely before using or storing the item. Natural wicker may require further weatherproofing every few years, depending on the weather conditions. Wicker should be sheltered from the sun as much as possible, and should be stored in a cool, dry location during bad weather. Cleaning all-weather wicker furniture is as simple as using a light detergent and rinsing well with water.
Plastic
Plastic patio furniture is low-cost, long-lasting, and lightweight, making it simple to stack and move around the yard. Plastic can be molded into a variety of forms to create one-of-a-kind furniture, and it is available in a wide range of colors that will never need to be refinished. Choose furniture that is particularly created from recycled plastic if you want to be environmentally conscious. To clean this furniture, use a light solution that is mildew resistant and then rinse well with water. Before storage, make sure everything is completely dry.
Conclusion
Patio furniture that is both comfortable and functional enhances the enjoyment of your outside settings. Before making a large purchase, shop with caution and research customer reports and reviews online. In order to stay within your budget, spend your money on goods that will be used the most frequently, such as a comfy patio chair or a long-lasting dining room table. Smaller decorations, such as cushions and accent tables, may be purchased at a lower cost.
