Outdoor Materials - A Guide To Creating Your Summer Oasis
Ah... the great outdoors – it can be a tiny balcony in the sky, a deck or a backyard – we all want to ‘get out’ in the warm weather.
Mother nature is cruel towards materials. The scorching sun, temperatures that go up and down, the wind, rain and water, are all challenging materials. Whether they are natural or man-made.
On the practical side, ask yourself, “How much time do I want to devote to maintenance?”
Let me help you with your research so that your oasis can survive the elements.
CABINETRY AND FURNITURE - MAINTENANCE 101
Most products are made of plastic, wood, aluminium or wicker, each material has its own set of positives and negatives.
Take time to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to clean and maintain outdoor products. This will make your life easier in the short and long run.
Corrosion and weather resistant means the finish protects materials. It is not waterproof.
UV-stable and light fastness is a stabilizer added to protect from deterioration or to fade in the sun.
Fire, heat and impact-resistant materials are easy to clean and non-corrosive. The most practical is stainless steel.
The easiest solution is to cover your furniture or place them in storage when not in use.
WANT SUSTAINABLE PATIO FURNITURE?
Look for recycled plastic, reclaimed wood, or FCS-certified wood. Teak is well-known for durability, beauty, and strength and is popular on ships.
FABRICS
Cushions and fabrics make outdoor lounging life comfy. Ensure that fabrics are breathable, UV, water, mildew and stain-resistant. Most people are familiar with Sunbrella fabrics for their durability and soft feel. PS - Power washing is not recommended as it can ruin the seams of the cushions.
SHADES AND CANOPIES
Extend your outdoor stay naturally to keep cool, and protect yourself from UV rays and reduce the premature ageing of wood and fabric.
Add a fan for ultimate breezy coolness.
FLOORING
What’s under your feet needs to be practical, beautiful and long-wearing.
First, take an inventory of the area you want to cover. Asses conditions such as drainage, holes made by animals, soil type and exposure to sun and rain. This will determine what materials you’ll need to use.
Flooring options include:
Wood: It’s versatile. Redwood or cedar has a natural resistance to rot and the elements. Other woods require sealants.
Stone: Natural and durable. Includes granite, slate and marble and still requires care. Dark stones absorb the heat and will scorch your tender footsies.
Brick and permeable concrete pavers: Great hardscape options for eco-friendly patios and walkways.
Tile: Porcelain tile can mimic the look of other materials, including wood and stone, all while being durable and budget-friendly.
Rubber paving stones and recycled plastic: Help divert waste from landfills. Resilient, durable, slip-resistant, and shock absorbent – a favourite around pools and kids’ playgrounds.
Composite Decking: Wood fibres encased in plastic and binding agents. Low-maintenance, easy to install with a multitude of great traits. Very popular despite the higher cost of materials.
Carpets: Makes the outdoors homelike. The synthetics are easy to clean, mould, mildew and stain-resistant. Many are made from recycled materials.
Artificial Grass: It’s not the real thing, but it is easy to install and long-lasting. You do need to vacuum it.
NOTE: Make sure your flooring has a matt or non-slip finish. Shiny surfaces can be slippery and hazardous around water and in the winter.
Light-Up The Dark
Finally, your evening outdoor stay is more enjoyable when you light things up! Make sure any fixture you use is wet-rated. Safety first.
Enjoy your outdoor oasis. No matter where it’s located. Knowing that your materials will survive the elements. No matter what mother nature brings on.
NEED HELP WITH YOUR OUTDOOR LIGHTING? CONTACT ME TO SEE WHAT SOLUTIONS ARE RIGHT FOR YOU.
Dolores Pian is a Master Interior Designer who crafts luxury residences, penthouses and purse parking. Successful people seek her expertise in Design Reclaiming Time ©.
Because time is their true luxury.
Drop her an e-mail to say hello and let her know what you thought of this blog post.
Dolores Pian’s blog posts are meant to inform and entertain. Please consult Dolores Pian directly if you need any specific information for your specific spaces.
All photos are the property of the respective owners who took photos and who’ve published photos.