When purchasing outdoor furniture, your aim should be to find pieces that will last many years while continuing to look great. Quality wicker outdoor furniture will definitely provide you with years of service, but it’s important to be sure that you’re buying the best. To ensure you’re buying a quality product, there are a number of things you can keep an eye out for. This article will provide you with information that will help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing wicker outdoor furniture.
What Is It Made Out Of?
Wicker outdoor furniture can be made out of a variety of materials, so it’s a good idea to know what the furniture you’re considering buying is made out of. The term wicker refers to the manufacturing process used and is not the name of the material the furniture is made out of.
Traditionally, wicker involved the weaving of cane, plant stalks and branches to create a hard and strong material. This material was then used to create furniture, baskets and other items. Nowadays, the creation of wicker products involves using a range of synthetic materials that are weather proof and extremely durable.
Checking to see what the furniture you’re considering buying is made out of is wise, as there are materials that are sometimes used that should be avoided. A good example of this is the use of stainless steel in wicker furniture frames. It’s usually best to avoid stainless steel due to rusting, especially if your furniture will be exposed to the elements. By knowing exactly what your wicker outdoor furniture is made out of, you can avoid any unexpected and unwanted surprises.
Inspect the Weaving
When it comes to wicker outdoor furniture, the tighter the wicker is woven, the stronger it will be. Generally speaking, tighter weaves last longer, so finding furniture that exhibits this quality is a must if you want your tables, chairs and sofas to stand the test of time. Before making a purchase, it’s also recommended that you inspect the edges and corners of the product and check the strength of the weave.
Is It UV Proof?
Another thing to be aware of is whether or not the wicker outdoor furniture you’re looking at is protected against the sun’s UV rays. Wicker outdoor furniture that’s been made cheaply may lack the UV resistance required to provide protection from the sun and will ultimately fade and crack. By ensuring that the manufacturer has included UV protection in the furniture you’re considering buying, you can rest assured that it will stay looking great for years to come. You also won’t have to worry about positioning it out of the sun when arranging your outdoor area.
There are a number of factors to consider when purchasing wicker outdoor furniture, but by keeping the aforementioned points in mind, you can be sure you’re going to be buying a quality product that will look great and provide comfort for years to come.
