Spend a few days evaluating your backyard.  Take measurements, decide what furniture and accessories you want to include and, determine your budget.

When it comes to patio furniture, consumers have an assortment of tables, chairs, benches, lounge chairs, ottomans, swings, side tables, chaise lounges and even sofas to create the perfect backyard. The biggest decision you’ll have to make is the type of material your patio furniture is made from.

Aluminum

Aluminum’s best quality is its resistance to rust.  It also weathers the sun very well and requires little in the way of maintenance. Aluminum is relatively lightweight compared to other common materials, so rearranging your layout or gathering for winter storage is a simple task.

Wood

Wood furniture is available in several different materials. Cedar and teak are two of the most popular.

Cedar is strong, lightweight and dimensionally stable, meaning it retains its shape despite changes in temperature and humidity. It also dries out fast

er than some other woods, making it less susceptible to moisture rot and bacterial and fungal development. Cedar also gives off a distinctive scent, which is pleasant to people but a deterrent to wood pests, moths and other insects.

Teak does not absorb heat, making it more comfortable to sit in on hot August days.  Additionally, teak is not susceptible to rot or mildew, and it will not warp from exposure to moisture, even if it is left untreated.  The only common drawback of teak is its tendency to change color over the years; many people, however, admire that trait as part of the wood’s unique appeal.

All Weather Wicker

Wicker furniture is very lightweight and surprisingly sturdy. Unlike traditional wicker, all-weather wicker is resistant to harsh elements, so bringing wicker furniture indoors overnight or when it rains is unnecessary.  Investing in good quality cushions can make a décor statement, and wicker is easily painted to match any color scheme.

Wrought iron

Wrought iron furniture is quite heavy and durable enough to be left out over the course of an entire summer.  If it is cared for properly, it can last for decades, which helps offset the expense.  Wrought iron furniture is typically available in a wide variety of designs, from the ornate and complex to more modern, minimalist motifs.

If you’re choosing wrought iron pieces, look at them as a long-term investment; it is best to select a design that you can enjoy for years to come. The thicker the material, the more durable the furniture will likely be.