What To Look For In Heavy Duty Outdoor Furniture 

Outdoor spaces are Our Own sanctuaries, places of relaxation and entertainment.Yet, they are also exposed to harsh elements like  wind, sun, and rain.Choosing the right furniture for these spaces, especially in windy areas, is crucial. It's not just about aesthetics or comfort. It's about practicality and longevity

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Wood, a natural and robust material, stands out as an excellent choice for wind-resistant outdoor furniture.

This article delves into the unique characteristics and advantages of wooden outdoor furniture, particularly in windy climates.

We'll explore what makes wood, especially certain hardwoods, superior to other materials Against wind and other harsh climates, and how its versatility and sustainability make it an ideal choice for outdoor spaces.

The Importance of Wind-Resistant Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture is more than just a functional element in our gardens, patios, or terraces. It's an integral part of the outdoor living experience, contributing to the aesthetics, comfort, and usability of these spaces.

However, in areas with harsh climates more factors have to be kept in mind. In windy climates light furniture can be dangerous as it can blow around cousin damage to itself and anything around them.

Therefore, investing in wind-resistant outdoor furniture, particularly those made from heavy-duty materials like wood, is essential. Such furniture not only withstands the test of time but has extra weight that makes it more resistant to harsh winds or bad storms. There are other benefits of outdoor wood furniture too; it holds up against bad rain and moisture while having a unique and gorgeous appearance.

Wood: The Superior Choice for Windy Climates

When it comes to wind-resistant outdoor furniture, wood stands out as a superior choice. Its unique characteristics make it particularly suitable for windy climates.

Woods like Sapele or African Mahogany are especially dense and durable making them particularly good choices for outdoor environments. This extra weight not only gives them more resistance in harsh storms but also lends to the furniture being very stought and reassuring while using it.

Another advantage of wood is its versatility in design. With beautiful grain patterns that have been marveled for centuries; wood offers endless possibilities for creating outdoor furniture that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

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Hardwoods That Weather the Storm

Among the various types of wood, hardwoods like Teak, Eucalyptus, Acacia, Sapele, And African Mahogany are particularly known for their weather resistance. These species have a high oil content that naturally repels water, along with high silica contents which reduce the risk of rot and decay.

Teak, for instance, has been used for centuries in shipbuilding due to its exceptional durability and resistance to the elements. While African Mahogany and Sapele have been revered for their beauty no matter the conditions.

By: Mathewson Standard

The Science Behind Wood's Water Resistance

The water resistance of wood can be attributed to its cellular structure. Wood is composed of millions of tiny cells that act like straws. When these little straws get filled with water that cannot drain out the wood will start to rot. The great all climate woods like African mahogany have a tight grain with oils in them that help to expel any water.

Moreover, to help protect wood against rot it is a good idea to keep it oiled. This will help keep water from getting in. Conversely, thick paints that block off the grain of the wood actually increase the chances of wood rot because they trap any moisture that is present in the wood and keep it from expelling. 

Design Elements That Enhance Stability

The design of outdoor furniture plays a crucial role in enhancing its wind resistance. For instance, furniture with a lower profile and aerodynamic shapes is less likely to be affected by wind.

Comparing Materials: Wood vs. Metal, Plastic, and Wicker

When selecting outdoor furniture for windy and harsh climate areas, it's essential to consider the material's wind resistance. While wood is a top choice, other materials like metal, plastic, and wicker are available on the market as well.

Metal furniture, particularly those made from aluminum, is lightweight and may not fare well in windy conditions. Although heavier metals like steel have the weight to hold up in a storm, they will rust at the first sight of water or salt.

Plastic furniture, while affordable and easy to maintain, is typically lightweight and can easily be blown away by strong winds. Additionally exposure to UV rays breaks down plastic making it all together a poor choice for longevity.

Wicker furniture, made from woven plant fibers or synthetic materials, is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable. However, it is important to secure them well in a storm because the wicker will act like a sail and carry the furniture away.

• Metal: Variable wind resistance depending on weight, potential for rust
• Plastic: Low wind resistance, degrades under sunlight
• Wicker: Low wind resistance, good aesthetics
• Wood: good weather risk resistance, good aesthetics

The Downside of Non-Wood Materials

While metal, plastic, and wicker have their advantages, they also come with significant downsides, particularly in harsh climate conditions. Their lightweight nature makes them susceptible to being blown away, posing a safety risk and potentially damaging other property.

Furthermore, these materials do not have the long lasting beauty of wood that ages in a warm and comforting manner. Instead metals will corrode, plastics break down, and wicker tears.

Lastly, from an environmental perspective, wood is a renewable resource, unlike plastic. And while metal and wicker can be recycled, the process is energy-intensive making it more environmentally costly than wood manufacturing and recycling.

Finishes and Treatments for Longevity

Finishes and treatments can significantly enhance the longevity of wood and can make them easily last for decades. Oil based products such as linseed oils and linseed paint are a great option because of how well they soak into the wood to protect it.

For teak furniture teak oil can be used to penetrate into the grain and keep it preserved from water. 

Other finishes that are commonly available at big box stores such as acrylic paints, exterior paints, polyurethanes… add a layer of mechanical protection and can look very nice. However, they will inevitably chip, crack and allow moisture into the wood that cannot get out, reducing the lifespan of the wood.

This being said paint has distinct advantages for outdoor furniture in that it protects the wood from harsh UV rays, if you are going to use a paint make sure it is an oil based paint like linseed oil paint that will protect the wood from water while protecting it from the sun.

Versatility in Design: Wood's Aesthetic Flexibility

Wood's versatility in design is one of its most appealing characteristics. Wood is used in all kinds of different designs, offering its warmth and character to a wide variety of aesthetic types. This is why designers are always looking to use wood furniture when designing a new space.

The natural texture and color variation of wood also add visual interest to outdoor spaces. Each piece of wooden furniture is unique, with its own grain patterns and color tones. This compliments the randomness of leaves and stone that make the whole scene cohesive and allow wood furniture to move from outdoor space to outdoor space seamlessly.

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Customization for Unique Outdoor Spaces

The customization potential of wooden furniture is another significant advantage. Companies like Mathewson Standard offer customization options for outdoor wood furniture allowing you to fit them into any space that you have.

This comes from wood being so versatile in how it can be worked with, it can be cut, sanded, filled, into different shapes making it easier to achieve specific designs when compared to materials like metal.

Furthermore, wood can be combined with other materials, such as metal and glass, to create mixed material designs. This is a good way to add a modern touch to a design making it more dynamic in the settings it can fit into.

Overcoming Sourcing Challenges for Quality Wood

Sourcing high-quality wood for outdoor furniture can present certain challenges. The availability and cost of certain hardwoods can vary depending on factors such as location, demand; this means local makers may have a difficult time, or experience delays when trying to make a custom piece for you.

This highlights the benefits of companies like Mathewson Standard that offer customized wood outdoor furniture made from African Mahogany. Because they are centralized and ship their products flat-pack, they can negotiate reliably low prices on wood and ship a complete custom piece of furniture to your door with free shipping.

By: Mathewson Standard

The Economic and Psychological Benefits of Wooden Furniture

Investing in wooden outdoor furniture can offer significant economic benefits. High-quality wooden furniture is known for its durability and longevity, this makes it a great long term investment. High quality outdoor furniture is really an example of the buy one cry once mentality, it may have a higher upfront price tag but one set of quality outdoor furniture can last you the rest of your life.

In addition to its economic advantages, wood also offers psychological benefits. The natural texture that is present in nicely oiled wood furniture doesn't just look great but it offers a  natural soothing quality to be around. It draws you closer to natural products instead of surrounding you with synthetic materials.

Moreover, the aesthetic appeal of wood and its ability to blend with natural outdoor environments can increase property value and appeal. This makes wooden outdoor furniture not just a purchase, but a worthwhile investment.

Investment Value and Consumer Perception

The initial cost of wooden outdoor furniture may be higher than other materials, but its long-term value makes it a smart investment. The durability and longevity of wood mean that you do not have to worry about it breaking or having to replace it. Moreover, well-maintained wooden furniture will retain its value meaning you can sell it in the future and recoup that initial investment.

Consumer perception of wooden furniture is also greatly higher than plastic or metal furniture that has a cheap connotation. Wood furniture is associated with luxury elegant spaces that top designers and elites surround themselves with.

Furthermore, the versatility of wood in design allows for a range of styles from traditional to contemporary, catering to diverse consumer tastes. This flexibility gives the makers a great opportunity to meet your specific needs.

Conclusion: Embracing Wood for Weather Resistant Outdoor Living

In conclusion, wood stands out as a superior choice for weather resistant outdoor furniture. Its unique characteristics, including its density, natural oils, and design versatility, make it highly suitable for harsh climates. Moreover, its environmental sustainability and potential for customization further enhance its appeal.

Embracing wood outdoor furniture in your outdoor living space will transport you to an area of luxury where you do not have to worry about how nice your furniture is or what people think of it as you know it is the best for any outdoor climate; offering looks and performance that is unparalleled.