Different types of Garden Dining
We know every garden is different and that’s why we boast such a wide range of garden furniture. We all love al fresco dining and lounging in our garden whilst the sun shines. Whether it's a cosy breakfast with family or an elaborate dinner party with friends, garden dining creates a charming and relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for any occasion.
When it comes to dining in style we’ve got you covered. We have a selection of outdoor dining sets available from bistro sets to large round dining sets. Looking for something different then why not consider a fire pit dining set or rising table set?
Relaxing in style
Relaxing in your garden is an excellent way to unwind after a long day or enjoy a lazy afternoon on the weekend. What better way to do so than with some comfortable outdoor furniture?
Sun loungers, garden day beds, and hanging egg chairs are just a few options that can transform your outdoor space into a place of relaxation.
Top Brands
Our selection of garden furniture has been carefully selected to ensure that our customers only receive the best. We are proud to stock furniture from top industry names such as 4 Seasons Outdoor, Bramblecrest, Maze and more.
Some of our most popular ranges include Bramblecrest Monterey and Portofino. They are firm favourites both online and in our showrooms. Both collections are made using high quality materials and are incredibly durable.
Maze pride themselves on creating top quality products at an affordable price. Maze garden furniture has been a popular choice for many years and this is just continuing to grow. Their best selling ranges include the aluminium New York range and the Maze Oxford range.
What is the strongest material for outdoor furniture?
Rattan, teak and aluminium tend to be the strongest materials for outdoor furniture. Durability and strength is important when choosing garden furniture. Its also more cost-effective as you won’t need to worry about regularly replacing it. Outdoor furniture is created using a variety of different materials such as rattan, teak, aluminium, fabric.
Rattan garden furniture is made from a synthetic material called PE rattan which is then woven around a rust-free aluminium frame. It's strong, lightweight, durable and weather-resistant, making it a popular choice. Synthetic rattan on aluminium frames are much stronger and sturdier than natural rattan and as such is the ideal material for your garden furniture.
Aluminium garden furniture is powder-coated to not only enhance the visual appeal but the strength and durability of the material. Using aluminium helps create modern and sleek garden furniture that can withstand our unpredictable weather and is considered a strong type of garden furniture.
Wooden garden furniture has been used to create patio furniture for many years but over recent years it has grown in popularity. Teak is starting to feature more in garden furniture and is used to create items such as dining tables, coffee tables and sofa side tables. Wooden garden furniture is also up there in terms of strength due to its naturally strong qualities.
How should I care for my garden furniture?
Caring for your garden furniture depends on the type of furniture you have. The majority of garden furniture is now also available with a protective cover. This helps you care and prolong the life of your furniture.
However, that's not the full story. Rattan furniture is best cared for by cleaning regularly and using a protective cover when not in use. Teak furniture can come with a protective liquid which helps protect, care and prolong the items, along with regular cleaning. Aluminium furniture requires little maintenance and a protective cover will do. Outdoor fabric furniture is best cared for by removing cushions when not in use and storing indoors.
When choosing garden furniture most want low-maintenance products which can be left outside all year round, regardless of the weather. However, it is still important to look after your furniture to help prolong its life.
As mentioned above, one way to offer best protection is by using a protective garden furniture cover, a cover adds an extra layer of protection against the weather, bird droppings and rotting leaves. Not only does a cover protect your furniture but it makes your life easier, come spring all you need to do is remove your cover and your furniture will still look like new!
One of the most important things to remember is to always bring your cushions inside or store them. Your outdoor cushions can be left under the cover during summer months but they should always be stored during the winter and downpours. If you opt to store them in a garage or shed always ensure that they are off the ground.
Can garden furniture be left outside all year round?
Generally speaking, garden furniture is designed to be left outside all year round.
We recommend taking additional steps to give your luxury garden furniture the best chance of lasting longer over the years.
As mentioned above covering your garden furniture (especially through the winter months) with an appropriate garden furniture cover is one step we always recommend. Whilst most garden furniture covers are season-proof, we recommend airing regularly to allow any damp patches to dry.
What types of patio furniture are low maintenance?
Rattan garden furniture is arguably the lowest maintenance.
Made from a synthetic material, specifically created to retain the aesthetic qualities of natural wicker whilst being able to withstand all weather conditions. This is extremely low maintenance.
Metal garden furniture also requires a minor amount of maintenance, but can in some cases mark easier. The majority of metal garden furniture features a rust-free powder-coated aluminium frame, ideal for all weather.
Wooden garden furniture is considered more high maintenance as one should regularly clean and protect the furniture to keep it in the best condition. Whilst upholstered garden furniture can require regular cleaning.
What surface should I put garden furniture on?
We recommend decking and most slabbed or tiled patios as ideal surfaces for your garden furniture. All are sturdy, strong and even, and won't easily scratch your garden furniture.
That said, garden furniture is suitable for most surfaces, but as with anything there are pros and cons.
For example, if your garden furniture set is big and heavy then we wouldn't recommend setting it down on the grass (unless temporarily). When the weather changes and the ground goes soft there is a chance that your furniture will sink into the ground and could also get stained.
Gravel, whilst providing a sturdy strong surface could scratch or chip as items are moved about.
What garden furniture lasts the longest?
Synthetic rattan and aluminium garden furniture will most likely last the longest out of all the different types of patio furniture.
However, these days furniture items are designed to last a number of years. Some premium brands even offer up to 10-year guarantees!
All of the tips mentioned above will help prolong the life of your garden furniture and general care and maintenance.
