Aluminum Patio Furniture Offers a Variety of Options

When we hear the words “aluminum patio furniture,” many people envision  standard, relatively basic pieces that probably look something like your garden variety resort furniture. Many people also associate aluminum furniture with low quality, perhaps a small step up from the flimsy plastic variety often found in discount department stores.   And there is indeed an abundance, low quality aluminum patio furniture out there. But there is also low quality patio furniture made of practically any material used to make patio furniture, from wicker to wrought iron.

Aluminum has Real Benefits

Contrary to the negative beliefs, many patio owners selectively choose aluminum in both residential and commercial settings for the several very real benefits it offers.

• Does not retain heat like steel or iron
• Easy to refurbish
• Invulnerable to rust
• Lightweight, easy to move or stack
• Limitless colors and styles
• Requires very low maintenance

Interestingly, one of the biggest benefits of aluminum might also be one of its few drawbacks – its weight. Lightweight furniture has obvious advantages, but also makes it more susceptible to being blown around in even moderate winds. Closely related is durability, extremely lightweight aluminum furniture – inexpensive, folding camping chairs, for instance – is prone to bending under moderate use or if subjected to unusually heavy weight.

Again, both issues are largely a matter of quality. Although an aluminum chair is always going to be lighter than a wrought iron chair, for instance, a well-built aluminum product is not going to collapse under an oversize patron or blow away in the slightest breeze.

An Abundance of Options

Options in aluminum patio furniture are every bit as versatile as in other materials. You can get it in classic vinyl strap, or a more heavy-duty version with aluminum straps for added durability. But this is just the beginning.

Aluminum starts to get interesting in sling-style seating, from the startling severity of modern pieces to the gentle suggestion of traditional design. Some of the coloring options are also evident in aluminum sling furniture. Darker colors combined with lighter material can give the impression of wood. By using a combination of contrasting or coordinating textures and colors, aluminum furniture gives you the choice of making your furniture stand out or blend in.

If you are looking for something more comfortable, where you can sit on or lie on for hours on end without ending up with aching backs, aluminum with cushioning like the Kingston Loveseat by Meadow Decor should be a good choice for you. For something more ornate and offers unique elegance, you can go with furniture pieces with detailing like the Lipari 24 Inch Round Bistro Table and Base by Alfresco Home.

The above examples only scratch the surface of what aluminum patio furniture has to offer. These are all high quality pieces which will not bend, collapse or bow under moderate use. On the contrary, there are many which are extensively used in commercial applications.

Some Tips on Maintenance

Aluminum does not rust, making it perfect for use in outdoor furniture. However, this metal can get affected by moisture and pollution, and its surface can get rough or discolor. Below are some tips to help you take care of your furniture and make it last for as long it as possibly can.

• If you see that your furniture is slightly discolored, you need to wash it with some soap and water. Remember to add some gentle household acid, like vinegar, lemon juice or cream of tartar. Do not add ammonia, soda or TSP. Always perform this cleaning after the end of any particular season.
• If you notice that the aluminum has become pitted or is rough, you can smoothen or polish the surface with steel wool soaked in soap. Remember to remove all traces or the steel wool from the surface of your furniture. Otherwise, it can rust and stain the surface of the aluminum.
• If your furniture is extremely dry, there is a wide range of commercial cleaners available that can be used for cleaning. Remember to not use commercial cleaners on anodized aluminum.
• If you see that your furniture is prone to corroding and pitting, you can use a coat of car wax or silicon spray to protect it.
• If your furniture is made of colored anodized aluminum, take extra care to use only mild detergent and water to wash it.

Whether you enjoy entertaining guests on a bright sunny day or just want to enjoy a solitary day with a cup of tea and your favorite book, it is important that you are comfortable in your aluminum furniture and that it stays in prime condition for a long time.

Aluminum Patio Furniture For A LIfetime of Outdoor Living

Aluminum patio furniture is one of today’s best options to furnish your outdoor living spaces. It is classic and traditional, and gives the look and feel of wrought iron. At the same time, it is modern, lightweight and durable.

If you choose aluminum furniture for your patio, you will likely  going to need only one set in your lifetime. The furniture  is mostly finished with powder coat paint, which is a rock-hard finish that is very durable. Unlike many other types of patio furniture, aluminum products last for decades  with very little maintenance. There are two common types: hollow aluminum tube based and solid cast aluminum patio furniture. While both are made with the same material, they really have little less in common.

Benefits of Aluminum Furniture

• It does not rust, while steel and iron do.
• It is long lasting with durable finishes and strong construction. With a good set, you can expect 30 and more years of use.
• Aside from the occasional cleaning, there really is no upkeep.
• It is virtually  weather-proof, handling severe environments well. It handles cold better than other types of outdoor furniture.
• It is easy to clean; just hose down once in a while and use wild soap if necessary.
• Difficult  to bend and break, it can withstand many years of frequent use. It feels more stable than some other types of furniture.
• There are an abundance of styles and designs to choose from.
• While usually powder coated, many color options and textures are available.
• It can be used with or without pillows and cushions.
• It is light enough to be easily lifted and moved, yet heavy enough to feel firm and stable and not blow around in the wind.

Aluminum Furniture vs. Other Types

Aluminum furniture is comparable to wrought iron furniture. They can have very similar designs and can look very much alike. Pricing tends to be similar. The major differences are in weight and durability as aluminum does not rust and the finish is less likely to chip.

Hardwood patio furniture is obviously very different than aluminum furniture. However, they can similar in  their long life durability, traditional styles, and mostly similar prices. Aside from generally bring more expensive and long lasting, aluminum furniture is really not comparable to other types of outdoor furniture like synthetic, resin and hollow aluminum pieces.

Aluminum Furniture Quality and Pricing

There are different quality levels in the cast aluminum category. Lesser quality sets are most likely machine assembled or manufactured. While there is nothing wrong with this, attention to detail might not be quite so evident. Also, watch out for finish quality; if a piece has a poor or damaged finish when it is new, it will develop further problems as it ages.

On the other hand, skilled craftsmen with high standards of perfection usually put high quality sets together. The molds forming the aluminum can be hand carved into intricate designs and patterns, like the ones in the Daffodil Cast Aluminum Garden Bench - Aged Iron by Alfresco Home. The finishes are going to be richer and more detailed. Also, the higher the  quality, the more likely it will be enhanced using thicker aluminum and more bracing.

Prices are usually directly proportional to the furniture quality. Higher prices most likely mean higher quality, although not always. Warranties also are a big factor when it comes to patio furniture pricing. The longer the warranty, the better a manufacturer expects the furniture to hold up. This is gauged in the price.

Aluminum Furniture Accessories

Consider getting cushions for your patio furniture, which you can find in various shapes, sizes, colors, designs and patterns. They might already be included if you buy a furniture set. Cushions will have to be stored when not in use to prolong their life and prevent mildew. Cushions usually do not last as long as the aluminum furniture, but replacement patio chair cushions are available.

While it is not absolutely necessary with cast aluminum, you might consider covers for your patio furniture like the Patio Table and Chair Set Cover - Up to 87"diameter by Duck Covers. Aluminum is durable on its own, but furniture covers will help prolong lifespan.

Aluminum Furniture Care

Even if cast furniture is thought to be low maintenance, it will still require cleaning from time to time. When this is necessary, you will want to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations closely. Usually, this involves wiping it down with a mild detergent using a soft sponge and rinsing it with water. Sometimes, it is advised to coat cast aluminum patio furniture yearly with a liquid spray wax. 

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 Properly Clean Glass-Top Patio Tables

Overtime, glass-top patio tables can become grimy from leaves, pollen, twigs, spider webs, insect and bird droppings and other kinds of dirt and debris without regular cleaning. Removal of this debris is essential to prevent the transfer of the dirt and debris to your cloth or skin as well as prevent illness that can occur from eating or enjoying conversation  on an unclean table. Clean the top of your table once every two weeks or more often if heavy debris has built up.

1. Wipe the glass tabletop with a damp, lint-free microfiber cloth or sponge before every use. If the tabletop has bird or insect droppings on it, wipe them away with one or more cloths dampened with a glass-approved household cleaner or glass cleaner.
2. Fill a bucket with hot water and enough mild dish detergent to make the water soapy. Put a microfiber cloth or large sponge in the water.
3. Rinse off the glass tabletop and the legs thoroughly with a garden hose or bucket of water.
4. Wash the entire table with the soapy sponge or cloth. Remove any stuck on debris or stains with a glass-safe non-abrasive scrubbing pad. Once finished, rinse away the dirt and detergent residues,
5. Put the table in the sun to dry or wipe it dry using large absorbent cloths.
6. Spray white vinegar or class cleaner on the glass tabletop once it dries. Wipe away the vinegar or cleaner with a microfiber cloth or paper towels.
7. Clean the underside of the glass tabletop at least once a month or as needed. Remove the glass from the table, if possible, clean both sides of it completely with vinegar or a glass cleaner, and then return it on the table. If you cannot move the glass, lay a piece of inch-thick foal or a thick blanket or soft carpet on the ground, turn the table upside down on the surface and repeat the cleaning methods used on the outside of the table underneath.

They might require more cleaning and maintenance work than the other kinds of outdoor tables, but glass-top tables make for a great functional and decorative piece in your outdoors. Take a look at these fine examples.

Table & LP Tank Cover with Glass Top by Outdoor Greatroom Company

Featuring a simple, yet stylish design the Table & LP Tank Cover with Glass Top by Outdoor Greatroom Company, is a functional accessory for your chat pit. Made specifically for storing propane tanks, this unit is constructed from quality.

Kross Rectangular / Square Dining Table Incl. Glass Top by Sifas In-Outdoor Living

Authentic and weather-resistant, the Kross Rectangular / Square Dining Table Incl. Glass Top by Sifas In-Outdoor is an exceptional technological creation in ultra-light forged aluminum, allowing it to resist the worst outdoor conditions.

Coffee Table w/ Glass Top by Outdoor Greatroom Company

The Coffee Table w/ Glass Top by Outdoor Greatroom Company is straight off the beautiful Kate Collection. It is made with outdoor resin wicker to withstand all the environment elements and comes in a gorgeous Saddle color.

The Ideal Materials for Patio Umbrellas

Wilma, a mother of twin toddlers, asks: “What exactly is the best material for a patio umbrella? The one that is most durable and long-lasting, as well as one that requires the least maintenance. I’ve been looking online and have found that they come in an assortment of materials. What are the specific and unique characteristics of these materials? Which one should I choose?”

Patio umbrellas come in a wide assortment of sizes, styles and colors. Whether attached to patio tables or affixed to stands, patio umbrellas shade people from the sun and sometimes from other elements. Buying a patio umbrella is an investment that should last for several years. To ensure that the patio umbrella retains its usefulness as well as remains aesthetically pleasing, choose material that is waterproof and durable enough to stand up to wind and harsh weather. Many patio fabrics are available with mildew resistant additives that can also help prolong the lifespan of your umbrella. Here are three of the most popular outdoor umbrella materials.

Polyurethane-Coated Polyester

Many man-made fabrics are well suited for outdoor usage. Polyester is a lightweight fabric that retains its vibrant dyes over time. Polyurethane is a chemical used in many products to create a protective coating or finish. When polyester is treated with polyurethane, it makes the fabric waterproof. Waterproof, lightweight fabric is highly suited for patio umbrellas, making this one of today’s best choices. Polyurethane-coated patio umbrellas are flammable and should not be used near heaters, fireplaces and candles, like citronella candles.

Acrylic

Acrylic is another synthetic fabric with waterproof properties. Outdoor acrylic is dyed with chemical dyes to retain color when exposed to outside elements. Lightweight and long-wearing, acrylic is usually treated with UV-resistant chemicals to eliminate fading. An example is the 9' Wood Market Umbrella Red by Jordan Manufacturing Company. Treat your acrylic fabric with both mildew-resisting additives and high UV ratings for use in outdoor patio umbrellas. Acrylic is available in fabric widths of 46 and 60 inches wide and is sold from the bolt for sewing your own patio umbrella instead of purchasing a ready-made choice. Acrylic patio umbrellas maintain their usefulness for about 10 years with proper maintenance, like washing the umbrella with liquid dish detergent and off-season indoor storage.

Canvas

Sometimes referred to as cotton duck or painted duck fabric, canvas sometimes make use of waterproofing additives to prolong the durability of canvas fabric. Examples are Teak Furniture Umbrella by All Things Cedar and Half Umbrella by Jordan Manufacturing Company. Know that the best type of canvas for patio umbrellas is painted duck. Painted duck is canvas treated with an acrylic paint solution which fares even better than a canvas umbrella with waterproofing applied. Painted duck will typically last for about eight years when properly maintained. Uncoated canvas will mildew if not properly cared for but is strong enough to withstand cleaning. Store canvas patio umbrellas in a covered area during the off-season, or use patio umbrella covers and tarps to give shelter from the elements.

Why Choose a Sunbrite TV for Your Outdoor Entertainment

The only time-tested TV in the world designed and made for outdoor entertainment, Sunbrite TV is a true all-weather outdoor LCD TV that delivers superior brightness while resisting the harsh effects of extreme temperatures, UV rays, dirt and insects. Sunbrite TVs have earned a reputation for durability, and have lasted for many years in some of the harshest climates in North America. These are the choice outdoor TVs for many professional sports stadiums.

Can be used in extreme heat. Sunbrite TVs are designed for permanent outdoor installation in extreme heat of up to 122 degrees F. The TVs feature an internal climate control system made up of temperature sensors and a filtered multi-fan airflow system that quietly keeps the unit cool.

Anti-glare bright LCD panels. In the bright light of the outdoors, you might have a hard time seeing any picture on the screen at all with the glare. This is why the Sunbrite TVs have LCD panels with a high haze factor to help absorb ambient light, making them resistant to this glare.

Protective front screen. This is a special design that ensures that the LCD panel is protected from potential damage. If the outer screen is damaged because of a very strong impact, the protective front screen can be replaced cost-effectively.

Resistant to extreme cold. Sunbrite Pro Series TVs have built in heaters that allow the TVs to operate at temperatures as low as -40 degrees F. Every TV has internal sensors that automatically turn on the heaters and internal fans to allow warm air over the LCD, thus protecting it from damage.

Powder-coated aluminum exterior. The rigid outer bezels give Sunbrite TVs impressive strength and durability. It is specially designed to resist rust and corrosion, making these TVs the default choice for public and commercial venues where extra durability is required.

True outdoor mounting accessories. Having a true outdoor TV that can last for years would be nothing if it falls off a rusty mount. Fortunately, all Sunbrite mounts and installation accessories use only stainless steel or specially treated materials so you do not have to worry about it rusting away.

Check out some of the most popular products from this world-renowned brand:

32" HD All-Weather Outdoor LCD TV and Integrated Speakers - Resin - Silver/Black or White by SunBriteTV

Designed with a durable all-weather environmental feature-set, the 32" HD All-Weather Outdoor LCD TV and Integrated Speakers - Resin - Silver/Black or White by SunBriteTV features all-weather outdoor-rated ASA plastic resin exterior protects internal components from rain, dirt, insects and scratches.

32" TV Outdoor Dust Cover by SunBriteTV

The 32" TV Outdoor Dust Cover by SunBriteTV is constructed with weatherproof 4-ply polypropylene UV protection fabric. This custom-fit dust cover keeps the TV free of accumulating dirt and dust. And the attached Velcro straps secure the cover in place.

Articulating Wall Mount for 32" TV by SunBriteTV

Designed with rigid extruded aluminum construction, the Articulating Wall Mount for 32" TV by SunBriteTV provides smooth tilt, swivel and pan motion, effortless tightening and extreme rigidity. It is Vesa 75/100 compliant and is supplied with stainless steel hardware for rust prevention.

Perfect Modern Fountains for Your Indoors

Indoor modern fountains bring the vibrant sound of running water inside the confines of your home. When you have one right inside your home, you can enjoy the pulse of the landscape comfortably while filling your space with calm serenity. Because fountains only require a power sources and come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, almost any home and any décor can accommodate an indoor fountain. Here are three very common kinds of indoor fountains. You might want to furnish your home with any one of them.

Terra-Cotta

Using popular terra-cotta pots to build an indoor fountain means inexpensive materials and the ability to incorporate already potted plants into the design of the fountain. Most terra-cotta pots have a hole-pre-drilled in the bottom for drainage. Use this hole to thread the hose of the pump through your pots. You can put the first pot upside down and then another pot right-side up on top with the water dish in between. This allows the water pumped from the bottom to pool and spill over. A water friendly plant sits in the top pot to crown the homemade pump. Terra cotta is easy to cut to make space for cords or direct water flow. Get your inspiration from the Venice Fountain by Bond Manufacturing.

Glass Fountain

If space is available for a large piece of glass or mirror, build an indoor fountain that runs water down the length of the mirror’s surface. The effect covers the transparent material with water as it drops down effortlessly. Install some kind of basin at the bottom to catch the water and pump it back to the top to make the glass fountain work. These basins are usually full of river rock and give the illusion of the water disappearing. Subsequently, there are no pool of water, so a glass fountain will not collect debris or attract children and pets. The glass fountain can either be free-standing like the Gardenfall Clear Glass and Dark Copper Trim Floor Fountain Large by Bluworld or fastened to a wall like the Contempo Solare Wall Fountain by Bluworld.

Atrium Fountain

For large homes or rooms with many windows, design a larger atrium fountain. These fountains usually stand tall and look similar to the ones found outside, but you have more control over the appearance of an indoor fountain, as well as less competition for its use, which means it will stay cleaner. Because predators are not a thread inside, incorporate fish into the large basin. If the fountain stands in the center of the room, put greenery around not only in the fountain but also throughout the room so you can tie it back to the room’s center. If you put the fountain the corner, do not just plant it at the base of the fountain, incorporate plants next and above the fountain to make its installation look more organic.

Of course, make sure that you buy a high quality fountain from a reputable brand, even if it will be out of harm’s way in the harsh outdoors. This way, you can bask in its calming sound and beauty for a long time. 

Inspired Outdoor Living with Patio Flooring

Lisa, a housewife from California, asks: “We have a good amount of space outside our home, and I want to transform it into a living space where we can relax, hang out, and eat. Now, I’m considering using patio flooring. What are my best choices?”

Many options present themselves when it comes to the  kind of flooring you should have for your outdoors. You will need to weigh important factors, including safety, maintenance, and your budget. Outdoor flooring does allow  for both functionality and attractive décor;  so choosing the type that best fits your needs should not be difficult if you know what you are looking for.

Paint

If the foundation of your patio is in good shape and you reaure an inexpensive flooring option, you can paint. Concrete paint is available at home improvement stores and paint stores. Wash your concrete patio to remove dirt and debris. Use an acid wash solution to thoroughly clean and prepare the concrete. Allow the concrete to dry before applying primer. When the primer has dried,  you can begin the paint process. Sealing  and painting the floor will ensure the elements for up to 5 years before you will have to repaint again.

Tile

Always a classic choice, tile brings color and texture to your outdoor space. For temperate climates, you can use porcelain or granite like the JointStone Granite Tile Bright Grey - Set of 10 Boxes by Infinita. You can also use ceramic tiles; but not in climates that have extended periods in which the temperature drops below freezing as the tile will crack. Spanish or Saltillo tile is also a great flooring option. However, both of them require annual sealing to maintain their color and to prevent cracking.

Wood

Floors made from Brazilian walnut or teak will tolerate being exposed to the elements. Decking tiles like the Le Click Flex Teak Tiles (Set of 10) by Infinita are squares of wood with a support system on the underside that allows you to snap the squares together. The tiles can be installed directly over your concrete foundation, creating the look and feel of a deck without actually building one.

Carpeting

Outdoor carpeting is manufactured to withstand the element. Usually made of synthetic materials like olefin and polyester blends, the provide  color and comfort, and are  very easy to install. You can add an outdoor carpet like the  to your patio floor using an adhesive specially designed to hold the carpet to the concrete foundation. Home improvement stores may have installation services available that include installing outdoor carpeting if you do not want to do it on your own.

Stamped Concrete

You can use this option if you are installing a new patio foundation. When the concrete is poured, the stamp or stamps can be applied to create different faux stone effects. Stamped concrete is an art form, and there is little room for error. It is also one of the more expensive options for patio flooring; the cost is in the labor and the price of the stamps. 

Ideas for Replacing Glass on Patio Dining Tables

Glass patio dining tables are a reliable piece of furniture for the outdoors. They are relatively easy to clean, as opposed to a wooden table that is prone to  warping  and weathering over time. These also look very stylish and are much easier to maintain than most of the other table styles. Here are a few beautiful examples of glass outdoor dining tables.

• Bermuda Dining Table by Nuevo Living. With a frame made from natural and durable Teak wood, this dining table has a clean brown finish that is topped off with a rounded clear glass top. It suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

• Venice Round Dining Table by Vifah Modern Patio. Made of cast aluminum, this modern dining table features a Desert Bronze finish to complement your outdoors. It captures a piece of that wonderful California sunshine and casual lifestyle.
• Kross Square Table Incl. Glass Top by Sifas In-Outdoor Living. Authentic and weather resistant, this table offers rustic simplicity and expressive strength. This creation in "ultra light" forged aluminum allows it to resist the worst outdoor conditions.

The glass from  a patio table, however, can become scratched and worn and may need to be replaced. There are a few ways to do this, including changing what the surface of the table is actually made from.

Replace the Glass

By simply replacing the glass in a patio table, you will have removed the weathered look and made your table look as good as new. Depending on the size of your table, replacement glass, textured or clear, cost around $250 to $350 to cut and ship to you, complete with a hole in the center for your umbrella. You might also want to consider buying colored or painted glass to change up the whole look.

Replace with Synthetic Resin

Because glass tables are a bit fragile, replacing a glass patio tabletop with a plastic one  might appear to be a great option. These table tops are more durable to shocks and scratches penetrating  their surfaces. Plastic tabletops are made of acrylic Plexiglas and are almost unbreakable. They can be patterned, textured  or clear in their design. This is an inexpensive option that that will save you in the long run.

Stone Tabletops

A much more expensive but also more expressive and aesthetically pleasing alternative to a glass patio is a round stone-top patio table. These tables are usually ornately designed out of mortar, stones and cement, with patterns of different colored tiles and stones decorating their tops. Durable to both weather and human abuse, these tables will outlast the house itself, if given the opportunity. However, if you are just replacing the glass on your patio table, a stone tabletop may not work, as they need rather specific frames. Most stone tabletops have supports holding them that are made out of a strong metal. Many glass and plastic patio tables have plastic supports holding them up, as they are designed to hold much less weight. 

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.