5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing an Outdoor Patio Furniture in Lakeland

The days of summer are about to end, along with all those lazy afternoons and evenings spent lounging outside. Before you seal yourself indoors, now is the best time to buy brand-new outdoor furniture that you can enjoy next summer. It's time to buy outdoor patio furniture in Lakeland because late summer is when you'll find some of the best prices on outdoor furniture. But, you have to prepare and remember these common mistakes homeowners have when buying furniture. 

Outdoor furniture buying mistakes

1. Leaving the tape measure at home.

Before you head to the store or online, measure your space. There are times you think you've eyeballed your deck correctly, but there's no substitute for exact measurements. Not only should you write down the dimensions, but it's also a good idea to grab some painter's tape and mark shapes on the patio floor where you'd like to place the furniture. With that, you'll know there's room for french doors to swing open, or the dining table you thought would fit will have to be much smaller.

2. Glossing over materials and quality.

If you're trying to create a patio that pops, it's easy to get lured by vibrant color or trendy design. But if you don't pay attention to the quality, construction, or materials, you might be throwing money down the drain. Do your research and don't be afraid to ask the experts when you're shopping. Take notes as buying furniture can be a bit of a science. Wrought iron and coated aluminum are known to resist moisture, but not every metal is made to withstand weeks of outdoor exposure. That's why it's recommended to have high-quality wicker or teak for longevity. 

3. Ignoring your location.

Before buying outdoor furniture, consider the climate and find out how different materials will react to the elements. Living by the sea is a dream come true, but the salty air can do a number on outdoor furniture, particularly certain types of metal. The same goes for colder climates and areas shaded by sap-dripping trees. 

4. Skipping the sit test.

If you sprawl across and maybe bounce on a mattress you're considering, so why not lounge in the outdoor chairs you'll be spending lazy evenings in? Also, notice if the scroll pattern on the back of a settee might poke you in the shoulder blades. Of course, you won't know it if you don't give it the "sit test" in the store. If you are buying furniture online, look for reviews and see what other people are saying about your picks.

5. Not investing in proper protection.

Outdoor furniture is not cheap, and if you are shelling out for new patio chairs year after year, you should spend some money upfront on protection for your investment. You need to invest in covers to use during the offseason, which can be worth the money for the protection they offer from rain, snow, and even spring pollen. If you want to safeguard your investment, buy your outdoor set at the end of the season from furniture companies like Palm Casual. 

If you're a homeowner that wants to have durable outdoor patio pieces, avoid these mistakes and find a reliable furniture shop. Click here, and soon, you'll be sitting on your beautiful patio.