We’re usually pretty selective when we buy furniture for our home. The average person tests about 8 mattresses before they decide on a new bed. At least 5 recliners have to be tested before we decide on the one we want, and buying a sofa is a matter of measuring, re-measuring, and agonizing over styles, upholsteries, and a dozen other little details. The last thing we want is to go through the same mind-numbing process, nail chewing when choosing garden furniture. With the goal of comfort and peace of mind, here are some pointers on choosing the right garden furniture for your home.

Budget

Always at the forefront of any shopping trip is the budget. You can plan to spend a pre-determined amount of money, or you may plan to seek financing through the store from which you make the purchase. Just keep in mind that even if a store offers “X months no interest,” this could still end up being a money pit like lawn care services. If you are late by even one day with a single payment, the contract is broken and the store can start charging you enormous interest. While the payments may remain affordable, you will find the principal is not going down.

Value

The next factor to consider is the value for your money. Cheap garden furniture may get you through the season, but that is all. Cheap frames will bend, unable to withstand the daily use, especially if you entertain in your garden. Fabrics and fibers will mould quickly and become frayed from use. This may be just fine, if you expect to move within the season, or simply don’t spend much time outside.

However, if you do entertain outside, it will be well worth the money to budget for higher quality construction. Cast iron, wrought iron, powder coated steel, and heavy gauge aluminum will be more durable, and stylish as well. The difference between inexpensive and quality lawn furniture will often be seen in the frame, with smooth, strong joints and quality welds. The fabric also should be treated to be moisture resistant. This will make it last longer and help to avoid that musty smell that you encounter with so many outdoor fabrics.

Style

You can choose just about any style of garden furniture. Once you settle on a budget, and decide the value of your purchase, you can start looking at different styles. Do you want casual, lounging style furniture, with seating walls placed around, or do you want more formal seating areas with tables and shade? Will you select monochrome hues that don’t draw attention to themselves, or do you want bright colors that will serve as a focal point in the garden?

Protect Your Lawn

Proper lawn furniture can actually protect your lawn. Seating walls help to direct traffic, keeping large groups of visitors off of the lawn areas. Comfortable seating will also provide an obvious center of activity, saving your lawn from wanderers.

As you shop for garden furniture, remember to take a deep breath. It will be fun!