When choosing outdoor dining furniture for your Brisbane home, pick pieces that can withstand the humid subtropical climate. At the same time, they must offer comfort, style, and functionality. Hosting family dinners or weekend BBQs? The right outdoor furniture can elevate your space.
So, what should you look for when buying outdoor dining furniture? The following are things to look for.
- The right material, according to climate
- Comfort and ergonomics
- Maintenance requirements
- Size and flexibility
- Balance in price and quality, and
- Style
Here’s an expert guide to help you make the best choice.
Things to Consider While Buying Outdoor Dining Furniture
In Australia, the number of outdoor furniture users is projected to be 2 million by 2029. If you are among them, you must consider several aspects when purchasing dining patio furniture. Otherwise, you may fail to choose suitable furniture that meets your standards.
We have discussed the factors to consider when buying outdoor dining furniture. By keeping the following considerations in mind, you will be able to make an informed decision.
1. Choose Durable and Weather-Resistant Materials
The first and foremost aspect to consider when buying outdoor dining furniture is material durability. Particularly in Brisbane, you must select weather-resistant material.
Outdoor furniture in Brisbane must resist the area’s sun, rain, and wind, which the area often experiences. Weather resistance is not just about the materials. It’s also about the coatings and fabrics that protect them.
Also, Brisbane has a humid subtropical climate. Humidity can cause damage to your outdoor furniture due to prolonged exposure to the environment.
On the other hand, the Queensland sun is harsh. It can fade furniture and weaken fabrics. So, look for outdoor dining furniture with UV protection.
UV-resistant materials and finishes protect the furniture’s looks and structure. They keep their colour and durability for years.
You should go for the following sustainable furniture materials. They work in almost all places, including Brisbane.
Teak Wood
Teak is renowned for its durability and ability to endure harsh outdoor conditions. It naturally contains oils that resist moisture, rot, and pests. This makes teak wood one of the best choices for outdoor dining furniture in Brisbane.
- The hardness of teak wood is unmatched. It has a hardness rating of 11,55 lbs.
- It also has a lower shrinkage coefficient (5.3%) that prevents it from shrinking and makes it very stable.
All these characteristics make it able to withstand harsh weather.
Teak furniture initially costs a little more than many materials. But, it lasts a long time than most of the materials out there. Even in hot and humid conditions, the teak remains stable and doesn’t crack or warp easily. Teak wood dining sets are a top choice for homeowners if they want a warm, natural look with low maintenance.
However, alongside teak wood, you also can choose solid eucalyptus. This material is also resistant to harsh weather.
Aluminum Furniture
Aluminium is another great material for outdoor dining furniture. It’s rust-resistant, lightweight, and easy to move around. In Brisbane’s humid environment, aluminium won’t corrode, making it perfect for long-term use.
Aluminium’s corrosion rate is 0.03 to 4 µm per year. This is very low and can protect aluminium from corrosion for hundreds of years. These traits make it one of the toughest, weather-resistant materials. Also, when aluminium is cast, the cast aluminium makes a more durable state of its form.
Its modern, sleek look fits many styles, from contemporary patios to minimalistic gardens. Also, it requires very little upkeep. Simply wipe it down occasionally, and it will continue to look as good as new.
Wicker Furniture (Synthetic Resin)
Wicker furniture, when made from synthetic resin, is highly durable and weather-resistant. Natural wicker can degrade in extreme heat and rain. But, synthetic wicker is for outdoor use. It resists UV rays, moisture, and temperature changes. They don’t fade and discolour in prolonged exposure to the sun.
It’s also lightweight, making it easy to rearrange for different occasions or seasons. For a classic, stylish look that still holds up in Brisbane’s climate, a wicker patio dining set is a solid choice.
Here are some wicker synthetic materials you can go for.
- PE rattan wicker
- Polypropylene resin
Powder Coating for Materials
If you want to make your outdoor furniture more durable, you can choose furniture with powder coating. It makes furniture weather-resistant and durable.
Unlike traditional paints, it forms a tough, protective layer. It shields metal from moisture, UV rays, and rust. Powder coating’s great adhesion protects furniture from Brisbane’s harsh sun and heavy rains.
Powder coating resists chipping, fading, and scratching. It keeps your furniture looking good for years. With its eco-friendly, solvent-free application, it’s also a sustainable option. Powder coating is a smart investment for outdoor dining furniture to ensure it lasts with little upkeep.
You can even choose Cotswold iron with proper powder coating for your outdoor dining furniture. The best powder coating you should go for is as follows.
- White pearl powder coating
- Polyester powder coating
- Epoxy-polyester (Hybrid) powder coating
- Fluoropolymer powder coating
- Polyurethane powder coating
- Zinc-Rich powder coating
2. Consider Comfort and Ergonomics
When you select outdoor dining furniture, comfort should be a top priority. Because these will be used for extended meals and gatherings.
Cushioned Seating
Cushioned seating plays a big role in the comfort of outdoor dining chairs. Look for thick, weather-resistant cushions. They should be comfy for long use. High-density foam is ideal because it provides firm support and doesn’t sag over time. Also, the cushions should be removable and washable. This will keep them fresh in Brisbane’s humid climate.
Water-Resistant Cushions
In Brisbane, it can rain unexpectedly. So, water-resistant cushions are essential for outdoor dining furniture. These cushions are typically made from quick-dry foam called open-cell polyurethane. It prevents water from being absorbed into the fabric and core.
Also, the outer covers should be made from water-resistant materials, like
- Expanded PTFE
- Nylon (with waterproof coating)
- Polyester (with a waterproof coating)
- Neoprene
- Polyurethane Coated Fabric
- Ripstop Nylon
- Taffeta
- Silicone Coated Fabric
- Canvas (with waterproof treatment)
These repel moisture while being breathable enough to prevent mould. This ensures your cushions stay fresh, dry, and ready for use.
Ergonomics
Ergonomic outdoor chairs support your back and legs. They ensure a comfy dining experience. Consider chairs with high backs, armrests, and a slight recline. They offer relaxation. Pairing this with cushioned seating makes the chairs more versatile. They will work for both lounging and dining.
3. Know the Maintenance Requirements of the Furniture
Consider easy-maintenance outdoor dining furniture. You are going to use it for relaxation, not to spend more time maintaining and caring for it.
Low-maintenance materials can save you time and effort. They make it easier to keep your outdoor dining area looking good year-round.
- Maintaining teak, aluminium, and wicker resins is easy. The teak wood furniture lifespan ranges from 25 years to 40 years. A little bit of maintenance can extend its lifespan more.
You need to apply teak oil or sealer once or twice a year to retain its original golden hue. So, teak is low-maintenance for such a high-quality material.
- Aluminium furniture is practically maintenance-free. It doesn’t rust, and a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is enough to keep it looking clean. For extra protection, you can wax the frame. It adds a layer of defence against the elements.
- Synthetic wicker is easy to clean with just soap and water. Just avoid using harsh chemicals. Otherwise, they can degrade the material.
- For cushion covers, ensure that they’re made from machine-washable fabrics. However, as we mentioned the names of cushion cover fabrics earlier, are mostly machine washable. Removable and machine-washable covers let you clean them easily.
4. Consider Size and Flexibility
There are many sizes for outdoor dining sets. You need to pick one that doesn’t take up too much room in your room.
When to Pick Which Size of the Furniture
Choose a compact dining set if you are short on space. When room is limited, these smaller arrangements are ideal for patios or balconies. A dining set with two or four seats might give you the functionality you require without taking up a lot of space. For convenient storage, look for tables that can be folded up or seats that can be stacked.
However, for bigger spaces and large gatherings, you can go for 6 or 8 seats.
Choose Simple Assembly
A lot of high-quality furniture sets require very little assembly. To save time and avoid frustration, find furniture that is easy to assemble with basic tools.
Larger dining sets often have pre-assembled frames. They only need minor assembly, like adding cushions or adjusting legs.
Choose Foldable Patio Furniture
Convenience and flexibility are provided with foldable patio furniture. It is perfect for you if you like to make the most of your outside area. Because it is simple to move about or store when not in use. Since it can be put away after usage, portable outdoor furniture is also ideal for smaller spaces.
5. Balance in Price vs. Quality
For most people, price is a big factor when purchasing outdoor furniture. But, it’s important to balance the budget with durability.
Cheap vs. Durable Furniture
Inexpensive furniture may seem like a great deal at first. But, it will swiftly decay in Brisbane’s harsh climate. This will eventually result in regular replacements. Invest in fine furniture made of weather-resistant wicker, teak, or aluminium. It won’t need frequent maintenance or replacements for many years.
6. Consider the Style to Match Your Surroundings
Your outdoor dining furniture should match your home’s style and its surroundings. Here’s how to ensure your choices of colour tones fit your style and stand out.
Warm Earth Tones (Brown, Beige, Terracotta)
- It suits traditional, rustic, and Mediterranean homes.
- Use with teak or wicker patio dining set. Pair it with terracotta planters and muted orange or beige cushions.
Neutral Greys and Charcoal
- Works well with modern, minimalist, or industrial themes.
- Wicker in grey tones or aluminium tables with dark grey finishes. You can pair it with monochrome cushions for a sleek, contemporary look.
Natural Greens and Blues (Sage, Olive, Navy)
- Work well with coastal, beach, or nature design-themed homes.
- Use for garden dining tables with sage green or navy cushions. This is ideal for creating a calm, harmonious outdoor space.
Bright Accent Colors (Mustard, Burnt Orange, Coral, Yellowish)
- It suits Bohemian, eclectic, or tropical-themed spaces.
- Use wicker or wrought iron furniture with bright, colourful cushions. It will create a bold, vibrant look.
Bonus Tips for Accessories and Add-Ons
You can improve your outdoor dining environment by adding the right accessories. These accessories add comfort and style and enhance utility.
Consider an Adjustable Patio Umbrella for More Comfort.
Dining outside may be uncomfortable in Brisbane’s sweltering heat. A good umbrella provides shade and UV protection. Select a model that is simple to modify. As the sun moves during the day, it should allow you to reposition it.
Add Outdoor Lighting and Rugs
Outdoor rugs are made of weather-resistant materials like polypropylene, polyester, acrylic, jute, sisal, etc. They can provide a sense of cosiness and help define the area. Solar lanterns or string lights can produce a more comfortable atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
It is an investment to select the ideal outdoor dining furniture. The right outdoor dining furniture will improve your experience for years. You can choose a set by using the factors listed in this guide. It needs to be both practical and appealing.
At Outdoor Furniture Co., we understand Brisbane’s climate demands extra care for outdoor furniture. Premium outdoor dining sets are our area of expertise. We use durable, weatherproof materials to make our outdoor dining furniture.
Our furniture is designed to endure the intense rains and scorching sun of Queensland. We have choices to suit your every requirement and style. Put trust on us and choose your desired outdoor dining furniture today from us.