Purchasing, Cleaning and Maintaining Resin Patio Furniture

Entertain your guests in style with resin patio furniture in your backyard. Resin is one of the most popular materials for outdoor furniture, and it is easy to see why. It is durable, inexpensive and looks great in many different settings. Resin outdoor furniture is also known for being easy to clean, making it the perfect choice for those with busy lifestyles. Whether you want resin furniture to freshen your patio’s look, or resin garden furniture for your landscaped backyard, the following suggestions will help you find the right furniture that complements your home and make entertaining all the more easier.

Tip #1: Look for resin furniture in a myriad of  colors

White resin furniture might be iconic and give your home a quaint, old-fashioned touch, but you might want to buy wicker furniture in darker colors, especially if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain. Look for reddish-brown furniture sets to give your space a laid-back, earthy feeling, or black or green pieces for a more contemporary look. Update  these resin outdoor furniture sets with thick cushions in contrasting colors as well. Consider putting cream or white-colored cushions on black wicker patio furniture for a fresh, clean vibe.

Tip #2: Buy wicker furniture finished with vinyl or resin for durability

If you live in a snowy or rainy climate, you will want to look at resin or vinyl furniture that has been treated with water-resistant coatings like the Ares Resin Square Dining Set with 4 Chairs by Compamia. Resin wicker furniture is also able to resist fading and cracking in extreme color or eat. You can also buy furniture sets that feature aluminum frames if you are worried about natural wicker pieces being damaged or growing brittle over time.

Tip #3: Find resin furniture that complements your home

Resin patio furniture might seem cozy and simple when loveseats and armchairs are grouped together, but you can also make your favorite pieces look sophisticated with the right styles and colors. Purchase resin furniture sets with angular, boxy shapes if you want modern décor like the Club 5-Piece Deep Seating Group by POLYWOOD®. On the other hand, go with chairs, side tables and rocking chairs with rounded, smooth edges if you want to set a more traditional space.

While resin patio furniture is generally easy to clean, it is still important that you keep it well protected.  Keeping them in the shade as much as possible will help preserve their color.  During the winter, store them covered to keep it clean, and make it easier to get it ready for another season. Contrary to what many might think, cleaning resin patio furniture is not hard, but it is important that you use the right techniques. Here are a few tips to help you out.

1. Use a hose to wash off any surface grime and dirt. If you have one or you can get one, use a pressure washer set on the lowest setting.
2. Rub the whole surface of the furniture piece with a damp cloth dipped in soapy water. Use a mild dish detergent to remove any stuck grime and dirt.
3. Protect the surface of your furniture from getting dirty by applying a paste made from water and baking soda. Mix the paste together until it gets a thick consistency, rub it on the furniture, and rinse completely.
4. Use a mixture of detergent, bleach and water to remove stubborn stains from your resin furniture. Mix a cup of bleach, a gallon of warm water, and a couple of squirts of your favorite dishwashing liquid. Apply the mixture to the stains, and let it stand for at least 10 minutes, and rinse it away. Repeat this as necessary.
5. Remove scuff marks with a paste made from water and a quality cleanser like Ajax. Apply the paste and let it sit for 10 minutes before you hose it off.
6. Let the newly cleaned furniture dry, and wipe away any remaining moisture using a clean, soft cloth.

Always wipe away any new spills so they do not have a chance to set it. Wash away tree sap or bird droppings before they  can damage the furniture’s surface or mar the finish. Clean every piece of furniture when you get the hose out to water your yard, garden or flowers. A few extra minutes a week can help keep your resin patio furniture looking like new, making the next spring cleaning a little easier.

Patio Dining Sets to Suit Your Outdoor Space

The months of spring and summer signal the return of barbecues and enjoying the great outdoors with family and friends. If you are thinking of sprucing up your outdoor area for al fresco dinners in the coming months, a dining set that gives ample table top surface area and comfortable seating is essential. A nice patio dining set will make you and your family comfortable when you entertain or just choose to relax and unwind outside.

From bistro-style chairs and tables to more traditional wood pieces, the best patio dining sets are those that will fit your outdoor space without making it feel overcrowded. Also, they should also be able to withstand the elements of the changing seasons. Most importantly, your outdoor dining set should complement your preference and style. If you are considering one right now, here are some general things you need to keep an eye out for.

Choose the best materials. Sturdy metals and wood like powder-coated aluminum and teak are popular choices for outdoor dining furniture. Teak furniture, like the 5 Piece Extension Javenese Teak Outdoor Patio Dining Set with Solid Brass Fittings by All Things Cedar, stands up to the elements very well, and is more durable than most other varieties. After sunlight and rain exposure, teak also develops a nice, shiny patina, aging well over time.

Consider versatility. On the other hand, aluminum furniture is best for seasonal use as it is lightweight, yet still sturdy. Also, the powder-coated varieties are usually available in a wide range of colors, making it versatile for many different outdoor environments. Also, rattan and wicker pieces are easy to move, and outdoor chairs crafted from these materials can usually give the most comfort because of their tight cushy weaves.

Decide on size. The size of your dining set will depend on your outdoor space. Usually, bistro-style sets (which are made up of one table and two chairs) are best for small decks and patios. So if you are looking to create a small corner for relaxing, these can be a great option. However, if you are considering taking your meals outdoors, opt for a full dining set, which can range from four- to eight-seaters depending on the amount of space you have available in your garden.

Think of the surface. Wood table tops need the least amount of maintenance because they can easily be wiped clean with some mild soap and water. Metal tables can heat up quickly hen left out in direct sun for long periods, so it is best that you put them in shaded areas or under a patio umbrella. Glass table tops are also easy to clean and should make for a pretty accent in a garden. However, their fragile nature means that they are best for covered porches, decks and patios. Also, they are weak against the elements so they should be moved indoors during colder months.

Sometimes, particularly when it comes to outdoor furniture, price does matter. This means that quality patio sets can be expensive, but there are a number of ways to get a good deal on outdoor furniture. Here are some tips to help you find an inexpensive patio dining set.

• Shop when summer is over. Many stores hold sales on patio furniture once the weather gets colder. You might get a good price as retailers would want space for seasonal winter items. Whatever the season may be, you can check for sales ads.
• Price does not guarantee quality. Not all costly outdoor furniture is high quality. Do not judge the quality of a dining set just by the price tag. When shopping for a set, try to go with a durable and beautiful patio dining set.
• Look for a set that lasts. Sit on the chairs to ensure that they are sturdy and comfortable. If the set comes with cushions, ensure that they are mildew resistant and are made to withstand outdoor conditions, like the ones in the Bellagio Dining Table Collection by Anderson Teak.
• Compare prices. Take some time to look for different patio sets at different stores. Take notes when doing your research. Then make a short list of your favorite sets, and pick the one that offers the best quality for the lowest price.

Make sure that you pick a patio set that will look good with your outdoor space and landscape. Use the simple tips above to find the best patio dining set that is perfect for you and your family without having to spend too much.

Relax and Unwind in Style on a Vivere Hammock

Hammocks are not only for perfect for taking advantage of lazy summer days; It is also interesting to note that that relaxing on a hammock supports the human body with ergonomic position.   On a hammock, the painful pressure that comes with constant turning for alternate sleep positions is not a concern. Relatively simple, they do  an amazing job of contouring to the more natural  position of  your body, no matter the body type. If you are looking for the perfect  hammock in style and functionality, consider getting Vivere Hammocks.

In 2002, Jason Stoter was studying in a university in Guadalajara, Mexico when he stumbled across an entrepreneur selling hammocks. Through  his studies at the University, he was able to source hammocks from a number of villages in the Yucatan peninsula that had been weaving hammocks for years.  The company was formed and Inspired by Jason’s time in Mexico during 2002, the name “Vivere” was derived from the Spanish verb “vivir” meaning “to live”. The hammock became a symbol of the ultimate balanced lifestyle.

With the next few years, a tremendous increase was noted in the demand for outdoor living furniture and accessories, which led to the ultimate growth in the market for Vivere hammocks. The company grew beyond creating hammocks into other lines of outdoor living like stands, chairs, loungers and other outdoor accessories. Today, Vivere continues to grow their product line  with new vibrant colors and modern designs.

Vivere desires to promote relaxation and healthy lifestyles for  their customers. Anyone can enjoy their wide selection of products while sipping a refreshing drink at  their summer cottage, camping in the outback, or simply having a quiet  siesta in their  backyard. The company has proven  that they are passionate about outdoor living, assisting their customers in getting more relaxation and rest from their hectic lives.

Brazilian Style Hammock - Double Deluxe in Natural Fabric by Vivere Hammocks

A hidden gem comes in the Brazilian Style Hammock - Double Deluxe in Natural Fabric by Vivere Hammocks. Complimented by an elegant hand, this hammock features a crocheted fringe that will surely make anyone feel like royalty. A great addition to any cottage or backyard, this hammock is made with colorfast cotton material and can support up to 2 adults.

Quilted Fabric Hammock - Double in Renaissance Fabric by Vivere Hammocks

The reversible Quilted Fabric Hammock - Double in Renaissance Fabric by Vivere Hammocks has an appealing design on one side with a complementing color on the other. It has a layer of poly-fill fiber in between its two layers of all weather polyester fabric along with zinc coated grommets to attach the polyester to the rope ends.

The Original Dream Chair - Real Olive by Vivere Hammocks

The best choice for backyard lounging, The Original Dream Chair - Real Olive by Vivere Hammocks is made from poly-spun polyester with over 2 inches of poly-fill padding. It has a heavy duty steel frame with a 4 leg design so you can set it up anywhere you please. Easy to assemble, it comes complete with a foam pillow and shade umbrella.

How to Decorate with Modern Wicker Patio Furniture

Many homes feature modern wicker patio furniture. Aside from the fact that it is inexpensive and durable, it also lends itself to many decorating styles. Indeed, you can find wicker furniture in homes on the beaches of the East Coast as well as in homes that strive to recreate British Colonial décor. Wicker is a natural choice for many rooms of the house, because it not only looks lovely in its natural state, but it can also be painted and adorned with colorful blankets and pillows to completely change the look of your outdoor space.

Decorating your patio, porch or garden with patio furniture is pretty easy, for as long as you have a plan or vision on what you want your space to look like and you follow through with it. Still, many homeowners find themselves at a loss on how and where to get started. If you are one of them, do not get frustrated just yet. Read on and learn from these tips.

1. Decide how you would like to use the wicker furniture in your space. For example. Many decorating styles, including beach and British Colonial, use wicker furniture as a key element. Once you have made a decision about the decorating style, you will not have such a hard time choosing pieces that complement the wicker furniture.
2. Consider painting your picker furniture. Many pieces of wicker furniture are painted already (usually with white – like the Club 6 Chair by Lebello) but you can pull different decorative elements together in your space by adding a painted trim to your wicker piece.
   
3. Buy smaller furniture pieces made from wicker. Look for items like wicker trunks (the Lexington Wicker Large Storage Box by Tortuga Outdoor is one fine choice) or a wicker footstool (like the All-Weather Wicker Ottoman with 1 pc. Rave Cherry Cushion by Outdoor Greatroom Company). If you have opted to paint the trim on some of the larger wicker furniture pieces, consider painting these items completely one color.
   
4. Add an element of comfort to your wicker couch by investing in an abundance of throw pillows of various sizes. If you are painting your wicker furniture, look for pillows with patterns that feature your paint colors to pull the decorative elements in the room together. Then choose a few pillows in contrasting colors to add a bit of visual interest through contrast.
5. Remember the smaller details in your decorating scheme by incorporating pictures and mirrors with wicker frames into your room.
6. Break up the wicker-only look of the space by buying larger pieces of furniture that complement wicker. For example, British Colonial style decorating uses a lot of wicker, but it also incorporates heavy mahogany tables or dressers.
7. Shop for accessories like handmade quilts or cotton afghans at local flea markets or country fairs. These accessories add color to your wicker if you opt not to paint it and bring an inviting and homey look to the room as well.

How to Make Your Very Own Patio Bench Cushions

Cushions from patio furniture benches, dining chairs or  stools can have a limited lifespan;  especially when they are exposed to the outside elements for an extended period of time. Also, styles change and designs become outdated. Whether you need to replace them or simply want an update, you can make your own outdoor cushions actually quite easily.

1. Measure an existing cushion or the seat space of the  piece of furniture. You need to know the width and length, as well as the height if you are making one with side panels. Add an inch to all measurements for seam allowance.
2. Draw lines with a pencil onto the underside of the material to transfer these measurements. Cut the material along the lines.
3. Put two pieces of material together so the undersides are showing, lining up the edges so the pieces are even. Sew a basic running stitch ½-inch in from the edge, and another row of ¼-inch from the end.

• If you are sewing a basic cushion with only a top and bottom piece, sew three sides, with the fourth side 1/8 of the way from each corner to leave an opening in the middle.
• If you are sewing a cushion with side panels, sew all the side panels to the top edges. Sew the front and side panels to the bottom piece of the cushion, and then the back panel to the bottom piece 1/ of the way in from each corner.

4. Reach your hand into the opening and grab the material. Pull it through the opening to turn the cushion right side out.
5. Use a knife to cut a piece of durable foam the size of the cushion, and squeeze the foam into the opening of the cushion. Use your hands to tug and push until it is in correctly.
6. Fold the material of the opening in so that it matches the rest of the edge. Sew along the fold to close up the cushion.

If sewing or DIY projects are just  not your thing,  consider buying new cushions instead. With the wide range of selections available in the market today, you should have no problem choosing the one that fits your style, needs and budget.

Comfort Care Barstool Sunbrella Cushion Set by Infinita

Featuring seat bottom and seat back cushion, the Comfort Care Barstool Sunbrella Cushion Set by Infinita comes with straps so you can securely fix it to the barstool frame. It is available in six colors: Natural (white), Jockey Red, Cocoa, Parrot (Green), True Blue and Coal.

Folding Chair Cushion (Set of 2) by All Things Cedar

Make your folding chairs even more comfortable with the thick and washable Folding Chair Cushion (Set of 2) by All Things Cedar. Made with 2 inches of Hi Density foam and cotton canvas, this cushion is comes with reinforced piping on the edges and two tie-downs. Available in Blue, Green and White.

Patio Chair Cushion (All Sunbrella Fabric Choices) by Meadow Décor

Perfect for your dining chair, barstool and swivel rocker, the Patio Chair Cushion (All Sunbrella Fabric Choices) by Meadow Décor is made with polyester fiber batting, and polyester and olefin fabric covers. Generously sized at 6 inches thick, it has piped edging for a finished look.

A Quick and Easy Way to Winterize Patio Fountains

Patio fountains provide natural beauty to any home or landscape, acting both as conversational pieces and bathing facilities for birds. They can also serve as relaxation aids when you want to spend some quiet alone time on  your patio. Below are some of the top selling fountains in the market today.

Capistrano Water Fountain by Bond Manufacturing

With the enduring look of an Old World water spigot, the Capistrano Water Fountain by Bond Manufacturing has a large water basin that creates robust sound. It features decorative designs that enhance the beauty of this flat backed water fountain for patios and decks alike.

Laghetto Fountain by Alfresco Home

The Laghetto Fountain by Alfresco Home features a ceramic fountain produced by skilled craftsmen in a small artisan workshop. This beautiful fountain is designed to complement furniture offerings as well as to stand alone as decorative elements in any outdoor setting.

Watergarden Ancient Stone Floor Fountain 72" Bronze Mirror by Bluworld

Introducing the peaceful sound of falling water into any environment, the Watergarden Ancient Stone Floor Fountain 72" Bronze Mirror by Bluworld features a smooth bronze mirror panel and is made of durable composite in an Ancient Stone finish.

Fountains in climates with below freezing temperatures should be winterized to prevent them from cracking and sustaining heavy damage during cold months.

1. Using gloves, remove any plants from the fountain. If left to die in the winter months, the plants will rot and may damage the lining of the fountain. Fish, which are common in many outdoor fountain, can be relocated to an inside tank or left in the water to hibernate. Reduce their diet so they will become used to the cold weather and lack of food.
2. Clean all leaves, algae and dirt present in the water from the fountain. Sitting water can harbor bacteria so use caution here.   If your fountain has a filter, the water may not be as dirty as sitting water but may still be unhealthy to come into direct contact with. Use a brush to scrub the dirt off the fountain. Be careful that you do not scrub hard enough to remove paint or decorative linings.
3. Use a cleaning solution that will not harm fish, if there are any, to clean the water or fountain lining if it is especially dirty. Chemicals that control algae and clarify water can be bought at pool and spa supplier shops. Consider putting a net over the fountain next season to help prevent leaves and other debris from entering the water.
4. Drain water from the fountain pipes, filter and pump. Standing water in the fountain pipes may freeze during cold weather and break the pipes. The filter should be removed and cleaned before winter. Make sure that it does not have abrasions or cracks. Turn off and  unplug the pump. Do not run the pump during cold months as water may get inside it and freeze, causing damage to the fountain mechanics.

Proper maintenance is important so your fountain will last for many years;  so spending  some time to actually take care of them from time to time is well worth it!

A Patio Serving Cart Will Make Serving a Breeze

Many people enjoy hosting parties and entertaining their friends and family in the relaxing ambience of their outdoor spaces.; however, because such spaces lack the complete features of an indoor kitchen, serving food and even cleaning up can be a huge chore. It is a good thing that there are outdoor furniture pieces to rely upon. With all the luxurious and extravagant choices we have in the market today, sometimes, the best ideas come from the simplest of furniture ideas.

A patio serving cart fits this mold prefectly. When you take a look at it, it is not exactly the fanciest outdoor furniture piece in comparison. After all, it is just a couple of shelves on a couple of wheels.  However, the  added convenience they provide  is just remarkable. These carts can help you carry drinks, appetizers, main courses, desserts, and whatever you need to get to your guests. They can also be a great place for condiments, a cooler of ice, refill pitchers, and anything else that you need close by without the need to use up limited table space.

Counter space is mostly very limited, if not non-existent in most outdoor kitchen spaces. And if you do have some counter space, it might still be some distance from where you are serving your guests. With a serving cart, one trip will take care of everything, and you will have a flat surface nearby for additional convenience. And when it is time to clean up, simply load up the card and roll it to the sink or trash can. whether storing, serving or cleaning up, you can now make one trip instead of several. This is one of those times that you will wonder how you got along without something so useful and inexpensive.

The least  expensive carts are made of resin and can be bought for less than a hundred dollars. Most models are available in various styles, with one to three shelves and two to four wheels. Aside from plastic, these useful carts are made of various species of wood. The most popular ones are eucalyptus like the Outdoor Eucalyptus Serving Cart by Vifah Modern Patio and cedar like the Teakwood Serving Cart by Lanza. Consider matching your mobile serving tray to the rest of your décor if possible.

The more expensive models are made of wrought iron. As with the other wrought iron components, these can be as plain or ornate as you like. These high end models range from $300 to $500, even more. wrought iron models are available in a small round version like the Loretto Mosaic Outdoor Serving Cart by Alfresco Home, and are usually referred to as a tea cart. These are not as useful for rolling around the patio as their bigger counterparts. There are higher end outdoor serving carts that are also referred to as party carts. These models combine serving capability with storage and even refrigeration options.

Wood Patio Dining Tables: The Different Wood Varieties

If you are looking at patio dining tables for your outdoor space, wood would definitely be a great choice. Not only is it durable and strong, it can also contribute to a homey and comfortable ambiance. However, the varieties of wood can be dizzying. Which would suit your environment and your needs? How should you care for it? Read on and educate yourself with the answers to these questions.

All wooden outdoor furniture can be cleaned with a mild detergent and warm water. Here are the most common types of wood used in the construction of outdoor tables and outdoor furniture.

• Redwood is a durable hardwood grown in the west coast of North America and in China. It is straight-grained with a reddish color, and has a high resistance to rot and termites. When properly treated, it can last for over 25 years.
• Cedar is softwood from North America. It is light in color and naturally splinter-free. It resists mold, mildew, decay and insects, and weathers well. One example is the Round Folding Outdoor Dining Table by All Things Cedar. With proper care, it can last for 25 years.

• Teak just might be the most coveted of outdoor furniture woods. This honey brown hardwood is highly resistant to decay and rot and can last for more than 50 years, even when left outdoors year round. One example is the Bahama 117-inch Oval Extension Table w/ Double Extensions by Anderson Teak. Teak is now primarily harvested in Southeast Asia.

The high cost of teak has made other tropical hardwoods popular. This includes jarrah, shorea, roble and eucalyptus. All of these woods are durable, dense and stand up well to varying weather.

• Jarrah, with its pinking or reddish color, is harvested in Australia from government-managed forests to ensure reforestation.
• Shorea is grown in Malaysia and Indonesia, and is heavier and stronger than teak. But because of the large quantity available, it is usually priced cheaper. Both the jarrah and shorea can last up to 50 years.
• Golden and lightweight, roble is mainly harvested from dry tropical forests in South America. It can last for up to 25 years.
• Tropical eucalyptus is a native of Australia and is prized for its resistance to rot. It has a handsome look, like the Lakewood Table by Jordan Manufacturing Company, and can last up for decades.

Tropical hardwoods will weather into a silvery finish over time, unless treated twice a year with teak or other furniture oil.

• Affordable softwood, pine is harvested in various varieties from various parts of the world, although it is especially from American forests. Its yellow color with brown knows are great for staining. Pressure-stained pine can last for 20 years. It has a low rot resistance when untreated.
• Alder, cypress, willow and other trees with pliable branches are used for bent twig furniture. Willow is renewable because when it is cut, two or more shoots grow out of the stump of the cut piece. When properly harvested, it will continue to grow cutting after cutting.

If you intend to use twig furniture outdoors, spray or brush on a good quality clear exterior varnish and use the furniture only in a protected area.

How You Can Build Firepit Table Sets on Your Own

A patio table with a fire pit provides  a warm relaxing space to enjoy when the weather starts to get cooler. Many patio table sets offer a recessed area to build a small fire, and usually come with a screen dome to prevent sparks and embers from escaping. These tables, however, are usually expensive and a hassle to bring home from the store. With the following tips, you can build firepit table sets on your own right at home.

1. Buy the lumber for the size of the patio table fire put that you want. The type of wood that you get is all up to what you want and what best fits your current outdoor scheme.
2. Build the surround for the fire pit from the lumber as desired. Purchase or gather stone or rock to construct the center basic that will hold the central fire pit bowl.
3. Put the stone or rocks in a pattern or styles that you want and join them in a mortar of cement that has no adhesives.
4. You can also opt to dry stack the stones in constructing your fire pit. Make sure that you leave a depression in the center of the stone for the fire pit bowl.
5. Look for a fire pit bowl basic in a size that is appropriate for the center depression in the stone patio table. You should find them in home improvement stores.
6. Fill the fire put with a good amount of wood or any other burning material and light it. Let the fire consume the material and check all of the stone to ensure that the fire pit bowl is secure in place.

It would be great to build the patio table fire pit into the ground itself to create a more rustic feel. Line the edges of the fire pit with slate or large flat stones for a tabletop appearance. You might also want to consider building the whole patio table fire pit out of brick and mortar. This fire pit design can then function as an outdoor cooking area as well as a fire pit design.

But if DIY is not your thing, then just get a readymade firepit table. Below are some of the great picks you might want to consider.

Compass Mosaic Fire Pit and Beverage Cooler Table by Alfresco Home. Made from hand-laid mosaic tiles, this fire pit table features wrought iron frames that are coated with a rust resistant finish. It includes an iron bowl, grate and dome spark screen, cooler insert and mosaic center disc.

Kingston 48" Table with Propane Burner by Meadow Décor. Aside from being a great source of heat for chilly evenings, this fire pit table is also a beautiful centerpiece for your patio. It is made with cast aluminum and stainless steel with a Black or Walnut finish.

Sierra Fire Pit Table with CF-2424 Burner by Outdoor Greatroom Company. This fire pit is made with outdoor rated faux ledgestone. This square burner is a great new look that is U/L Listed. Its durable supercast top looks great and stands up to the outdoor elements.