Brits are spending £1,700 on garden furniture each Summer. Here’s how to save your money, according to experts.
With temperatures rising and Summer in full swing, many Brits are purchasing new garden furniture ready for the sunny days spent outside with friends and family. However, exclusive internal data from furniture comparison website ufurnish.com has revealed that Brits spend an average of £1,700 on garden furniture in this half of the year.
With pennies struggling to stretch, and this number unaffordable to most during the cost of living crisis, experts at ufurnish.com have revealed the type of outdoor furniture you should buy based on the type of garden you have - helping your purchase last much longer and saving money each Summer.
Deirdre Mc Gettrick, home expert, co-founder and CEO of ufurnish.com has provided her expert commentary on the topic below.
South Facing Gardens
South-facing gardens can definitely be challenging when it comes to choosing the right garden furniture. Whilst you have the benefit of the sunshine, the strong sun exposure can bleach and fade materials quickly, making it really important to select outdoor furniture that can withstand the sun's rays. You need to choose durable materials that can withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Both aluminium and steel furniture are good choices as they are both lightweight and corrosion-resistant. However, to caveat this, they can become very hot to the touch in direct sunlight, so ensure you choose light and bright cushions to protect you when seated on the furniture.
Another option is resin or synthetic wicker furniture. These materials are usually UV-resistant and are less likely to fade in the sun. They also won’t conduct as much heat, are lightweight and easy to clean as an added benefit.
Seaside Gardens
When it comes to choosing garden furniture for seaside properties, it’s essential to select materials that can withstand the corrosive effects of sea salt. We often think that homes facing the sea are an incredible luxury, however we rarely consider the effect sea salt can have on anything left outside the home, including garden furniture. If you select the wrong materials, you may be left with corroded furniture and even affected fences, ornaments, and outside door handles.
One of the best options is furniture made from stainless steel, as this material is highly resistant to rust and corrosion. Hardwoods, such as teak, are also a great option to think about as they are considered to be fairly resistant to saltwater’s effects. Alongside this, resin and plastic are more affordable options, durable against sea salt, and are easy to clean.
City Centre Gardens
Gardens, patios, and balconies located in city centre properties are much more at risk of the effects of pollution and free radicals in the air. Whilst this isn’t as much of a concern as weather related issues, it is still something to consider when looking to invest in outdoor furniture for the long-term.
You need to ideally select materials that are resistant to corrosion. One of the best options would be powder-coated aluminium furniture, which is incredibly durable. Plastic furniture is also a good option, but no matter what material you choose for city centre gardens, the main thing to be sure of is that they are regularly cleaned to prevent any potential damage.
Unsheltered Gardens
For unsheltered gardens that are exposed to all types of weather, you need really strong materials. The best options for this would include teak and other hardwoods, which are naturally resistant to decay.
Hardwoods also tend to be fairly heavy, which is great to prevent furniture from being blown around in strong winds or storms. It’s important to select heavy furniture with a low centre of gravity for this reason, or to even choose furniture with built-in wind resistance features such as weighted bases or tethering options. These are widely available from the huge number of retailers we have on ufurnish.com.
Choosing the right garden furniture tailored to your specific garden type not only enhances your outdoor space but also ensures durability and cost-effectiveness in the long run. By selecting materials suited for south-facing, seaside, city centre, or unsheltered gardens, you can enjoy your outdoor haven without worrying about frequent replacements. Visit ufurnish.com to explore a wide range of furniture options that perfectly match your garden's needs, making your summer gatherings both stylish and enduring.
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