The Secret to a Long-Lasting Outdoor Setup
Learn the key tips and materials that ensure your outdoor setup stays durable, stylish, and functional through every season and weather condition.
Outdoor spaces require clever choices of materials. Otherwise, you'll end up with faded fabrics and rust-covered seats. When this happens, you either keep the damaged furniture and risk making the house look unkempt or you buy something new. Whatever choice you make, money goes down the drain.
If this happened before, you surely don't want to repeat the same mistakes. You might want to start taking notes on some important things: sunlight fades fabrics, rains cause rust, and the ever-changing temperature wears down materials overnight.
There are more things to remember, but let's start with materials that can endure the changing weather.
Choose Materials That Can Handle the Elements
The outdoors is a hazard for most materials. If you want your items to age gracefully, pick what you bring outside carefully. Keep the below list of materials that can brave harsh weather.
Outdoor Furniture: Teak, eucalyptus, and powder-coated metal resist elements better than plastic. Wicker can work if it’s synthetic and UV-resistant.
Fabrics: Outdoor cushions should be made from solution-dyed acrylics. Weather-resistant fabrics are named like it for a reason.
Flooring: Choose stone, concrete, and composite decking.
Shade Structures: Protect your outdoor stuff with a pergola. You can buy pergola kits online for a cheap price.
Shield Outdoor Furniture
Even tough materials benefit from extra protection. Direct sunlight fades colors, and moisture leads to rust, mold, or wood damage.
Using furniture covers helps keep dust, rain, and UV rays from breaking things down. Storing cushions indoors or in a deck box when not in use prevents unnecessary wear.
Wood furniture needs occasional sealing or oiling to maintain its finish. Metal pieces stay in better shape with rust-resistant spray or touch-up paint. A little prevention keeps everything looking fresh.
Invest in Accessories That Last
Welcoming rugs and other decor sure make a place look inviting. They are important for curb appeal! Choose sturdy options that maintain their charm despite the harsh outdoor conditions.
Look for plastic rugs, especially those made of polypropylene. Natural fiber options wear off in no time.
String lights designed for outdoor use last longer than repurposed indoor versions. Even planters need the right material—ceramic can crack in cold weather, while resin and fiberglass hold up better.
Keep Everything Clean and Maintained
Dirt, leaves, and debris build up fast in outdoor areas. A little regular maintenance keeps everything in good shape and prevents bigger problems later.
Sweep decks to prevent stains and grime.
Wipe down furniture to remove dust and pollen.
Always check for mold or mildew.
Reseal or repaint wood and metal when they start looking worn.
Clear out fallen leaves and standing water to keep bugs away.
Simple upkeep prevents outdoor spaces from looking neglected. A few minutes of care each week goes a long way.
Make the Space Comfortable Year-Round
Outdoor setups get more use when they’re comfortable in different seasons. If the space can accommodate structures like a pergola, don't hesitate to get one.
An outdoor area during fall and winter looks dreamy with a fire pit. Surround it with tall plants or privacy screens to block chilly breezes. Some people swap out cushions and décor for different seasons—lighter fabrics for summer and cozier textures for fall.
If winters are harsh, stackable or foldable furniture makes storage easier. A well-planned setup adjusts to different weather conditions.
Stay up to date with our latest ideas!
