REMEMBER what outdoor furniture was like just 25 years ago? Does this bring back memories: basic wrought iron with orange, yellow or green plastic-like cushions? Well, design, construction--and prices--have changed a lot.
"Many of the materials are the same but the way manufacturers apply finishes has really changed," said Bud Tatum, owner of Lanai Things.
New outdoor furniture includes ergonomic designs like higher backs for head and neck comfort, Tatum said.
Above: Umbrellas are a 'must-have' outdoor furniture accessory. From the 1920s to 1940s people in America saw outdoor furnishings as a priority and often got inexpensive pieces from Europe with no duty. Today, quality outdoor furniture has become a priority for people who live in areas like Hawaii where lots of time is spent outdoors.
They range from $300 to $3,000, depending its features.
This one is from Tropical J.
Umbrella photo by Ken Sakamoto, Star-BulletinShoppers can find almost as many types of chairs and tables for outdoors as there are for indoor use.
Designs range from classics like an English teak garden bench to a contemporary chaise lounge, also in teak, that can be adjusted to support bent knees. A built-in tray underneath the seat slides out to hold a beer or mai tai.
And the materials being used to make outdoor furnishings are more durable, weather resistant and require less maintenance than in the past.
The most popular outdoor set and material is the round table and four chairs--usually in whites or earth tones--made of extruded aluminum which is light weight, durable, strong and will not rust, Tatum said.
Cast aluminum, with a look and weight similar to wrought iron, has surpassed its look-alike in Hawaii, said Tatum who calls it "wrought aluminum."
By Craig T. Kojima, Star-Bulletin
Teak outdoor sets are coveted because the wood's
high oil content makes it resistant to rot,
warps, shrinking and swelling.
"Wrought aluminum never rusts," Tatum said. "If painted finishes wear off, they may need a touch-up, but dealing with rust will never be part of its maintenance."Then there's wicker, a favorite of sunrooms and screened-in porches, now being made with weather-resistant resins and aluminum framing, allowing the pieces to be used outdoors without covering.
In white, natural and combinations of natural and green, this "resin wicker" is available in chairs, sofas and even porch swings, Tatum said. Resin wicker is priced comparably to quality natural wicker, which means it's more expensive than mass-produced natural wicker.
What's nice lawn furniture without some comfy cushions? Well, there's improvement in those as well.
The newest fabrics, solution-dyed acrylics, have the look and feel of cotton duck but the durability of plastic mesh. Mildew resistant, they can stay outside without fading or rotting. (The material also is used for outdoor "market" umbrellas.)
Less-expensive alternatives are 100-percent polyester and a blend of acrylic and mesh which are the least expensive.
Of course, for the cost concerned, there are always the stand by plastic chairs. About 60 percent of the outdoor furnishings market is mass produced plastic chairs, according to consumer surveys.
Plastic patio chairs are ubiquitous in American backyards for one reason--price, says Tatum. At $9 or $10 each, these stackable chairs provide comfortable, durable outdoor seating, and while not indestructible, they are sturdy and flexible," he said.
But Tatum warns against making a purchase based solely on low price.
"With Hawaii's climate and all the salt in the air, good quality outdoor furniture is the only guarantee to having it last a long time," he said. "An inexpensive just set won't last a year outdoors while quality outdoor furniture products usually carry a 15-year warranty."
How do you determine quality construction? Look for all aluminum frames; "powder-coated" finishes for smoothness and toughness; fully welded frames that are 360-degrees; and ergonomic designs.
What does this quality cost? Expect to spend at least $700 but if you want quality and status of outdoor wicker, you'll need to dig a lot deeper: try about $5,000, Tatum said.
A requirement for outdoor furniture--in Hawaii anyway--is an umbrella.
In recent years, market-style patio umbrellas--those with spokes like rain umbrellas--have become extremely popular.
By Craig T. Kojima, Star-Bulletin
Wicker is best on covered porches and lanais.
The new models have durable aluminum center poles, painted and grained to look like wood, or are made of weather resistant mahogany or oak. And remember that the thicker the pole the stronger it is. Thicknesses should range from 15/8 inches to nearly 3 inches.Tropical J's, Inc.--Hawaii's only manufacturer of market, patio and beach umbrellas--sells custom pieces--all with oak poles --ranging in price from the 8-foot, 6-rib model from about $385 to as much as $3,000 for a 16-foot umbrella. The company's most popular model is 9 feet in diameter, natural canvass in color, about $495.
There are three factors to consider when buying an outdoor umbrella: Service, quality and price, said Gary Barnes, Tropical J's owner.
"And you'll never get more than two of these," he said. "So decide what you want."
Today, quality umbrella fabrics may have the look of cotton duck--which mildews in many humid climates--but really are the same weather-resistant acrylic used in outdoor seat cushions.
Tropical J's umbrella poles use a heavy, multi-coat, UV protected marine polyurethane.
Than means they won't rot or burn in the sun, Barnes said.
It's also important to find an umbrella with a large wind vent at its peak to allow even the strongest winds to pass through without damaging it or knocking it over, Barnes said. The vents also disperse hot air.
Other important things to look for:
Aluminum or stainless steel pole sleeves at the base to prevent moisture contamination and rust.
Lanai Things has a new umbrella that allows the fabric head to tilt in any direction to fend off low sun; about $700. Another unique umbrella at the store for those with money to burn is a multi-layered thatch-covered design that looks sooooo laid back, though the price, $3,000, is anything but.
Outdoor furniture are usually durable, but need regular maintenance, especially with Hawaii's sun and salt air, say island furniture retailers Bud Tatum, of Lanai Things and Gary Barnes of Tropical J's. Durable doesn’t mean
maintenance freeFrequent washings is one of the best ways to preserve outdoor furniture. When dirt and residues are allowed to set, metals corrode and become pitted and plastics and fabrics lose their color.
General cleaning
First dust each item, then wash it in a solution of mild detergent and water. Dry thoroughly. Check all nuts, bolts and screws and tighten any that are loose. Missing, broken or rusted fasteners should be replaced with rustproof ones made of aluminum, galvanized steel or stainless steel. Next, lubricate all hinges and wheels with a silicone product. Don't use oil because it tends to cake and attract dirt.Additional care depends upon the material from which the furniture is made.
Aluminum
Aluminum resists rust but has to be prevent from pitting, which dulls the finish. If the metal is in good condition or has an enameled or baked-on finish, washing will do. If the aluminum has deteriorated, however, washing isn't enough.If the surface is only mildly discolored, wash with soap, water and a mild household acid, such as lemon juice, vinegar or cream of tartar. Rub each piece briskly with a steel wool pad. If this doesn't work try a No. 00 steel wool pad soaked in kerosene or paint thinner. Once the metal is smooth, wash it with in a mild detergent and water. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Protect the rejuvenated finish with a little automobile wax, then buff off any excess. Ideally, aluminum should be washed and waxed every few months.
Plastic resin
This material is very durable and weather resistant. Resin furniture also can be stored easily because the pieces usually break down or stack up. Most soil and stains can be removed with a non-abrasive cleaner, a glass cleaner, a cleaner-polish or with a a solution of dishwashing liquid and warm water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.Do not use strong alkalis, scouring powders or other abrasives.
Redwood
Redwood isn't likely to rot or warp but can split and will almost surely turn gray if not cared for. Commercial redwood stains and sealers help prevent discoloration. Before sealing, wash the furniture and replace any rusting fasteners. Lightly sand with No. 150 or 180 grit sandpaper. Dust and wipe with a rag that's moistened in paint thinner. Then apply one or two coats of water-repellent sealer made for redwood.For cleaning, wipe with a sudsy sponge, then with a damp sponge. Before storing, scrub, rinse and dry the pieces. Grease and soot stains can be removed with a solution of 1 cup trisodium phosphate to a gallon water, and rinse. Reseal as needed.
Wicker
Wicker, as well as rattan and bamboo, deteriorate with long exposure to sun and rain. They are best used on porches and lanais that are covered. Wicker is weather-resistant, but it can dry out so it is best kept in the shade. Once a year, soak the pieces in water to restore moisture back. Washing and refinishing periodically keeps pieces it in good condition.Vacuum the furniture, then wipe with a solution of mild detergent and warm water.. A toothbrush removes dirt between the weave. If mildewed, wash with a solution of 3/4 cup of chlorine bleach and a quart of water. Because bleach will lighten the wicker, apply it to the entire piece. (Wear gloves and protect your clothing from splashes.) Wicker with a natural finish that has dulled can be restored by applying lemon oil furniture polish.
Wrought iron
Pieces with baked-on enamel surfaces are the most durable. Primed surfaces with second coats of paint or enamel are next in durability. Pieces that are just painted are least durable. Avoid banging the furniture, which will cause chipping, and dragging the legs on cement surfaces.Wrought iron can look good for many years if it's touched up whenever bare metal is exposed. Use a rust-resistant metal primer to prevent rust from spreading. Clean with with warm water and a heavy-duty liquid detergent, using a brush to clear grooves. Rinse thoroughly. Wipe dry, or allow to air dry. Apply automobile liquid or paste wax and polish.
Teak
High oil content preserves this hardwood, which also resists rot, warps, shrinking and swelling. Teak also doesn't splinter and doesn't heat up under the sun like plastic or metal furniture. It also beautifies with age, developing a silvery gray patina.
Webbing
Nylon can be washed with mild detergent and rinsed.Vinyl should be protected from tanning lotions, which can stain it. Clean regularly because too much soil, oil and lotions can result to fungus growth. Wash with mild detergent solution and brush and rinse. Some vinyls contain mildew inhibitors.
Umbrellas
Close during heavy rain and high wind, but open later so dirt won't collect in the folds. Clean coarse fabric with mild detergent and water. Open to dry completely. Vinyl umbrellas should be cleaned with an auto vinyl-top cleaner. Protective vinyl finishes for auto tops or upholstery may be applied after cleaning.
Outdoor living is easy
To be sure you get good quality, look for:
5 mm or better is tops.
been designed with pedestal-type bases, outdoor dining is meant to be informal and relaxing. Stretching out one's legs underneath a table with a pedestal base is impossible so look for a simple base which allows plenty of leg room.
