When it comes to furnishing your outdoor space, there are many factors to take into account. Not only do you have to choose furniture that is durable and able to withstand the elements, but you also want it to be stylish and comfortable. An outdoor bench is a perfect solution for adding seating to your deck, patio, or garden. But with so many different styles and materials to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you?
Here are 8 factors to consider when choosing the perfect outdoor bench for your home:
- Size:
The first thing you need to decide when shopping for an outdoor bench is how much space you want it to occupy. Outdoor benches come in all shapes and sizes — from small end tables that fit in just about any space, all the way up to large dining tables that can seat several people at once.
If you’re looking for something that offers ample seating options, consider a multi-person dining table or multiple smaller tables instead of just one large piece of furniture.
- Material:
They can be made from a variety of materials including wood, metal and plastic. Wood is the most traditional material used in making garden benches as they tend to be more aesthetically pleasing than other materials.
However, if you live in an area where there are frequent rainstorms or heavy snowfall during winter months, then metal or plastic may be better suited for your needs since these materials are less likely to warp or corrode in adverse weather conditions.
- Style:
There are many different styles of benches available today, ranging from traditional wooden benches to more modern metal ones. The style of your home will dictate what type of bench will look best in it.
If your home has a more traditional design with rustic elements like natural wood or stone accents, then wooden benches may be right for you. If your home has a more modern design with sleek lines and contemporary finishes such as stainless steel or aluminium accents, then metal benches might be the way to go.
- Weather-Proofing:
If your outdoor space is not covered and exposed to the elements, then weatherproofing should be a top priority when choosing an outdoor bench.
Make sure that whatever material your bench is made from has been treated with UV protection or another type of water-repellent treatment. This will help protect against rain, snow and sun damage so that your furniture lasts longer without fading or cracking.
- Comfort:
The comfort of your bench should be your major consideration. This is not only because you will be using it, but also because it is a good indicator of the quality of the product.
The best benches are designed with comfort in mind and will have plenty of padding, as well as thick and sturdy armrests. In addition, the seating area should be wide enough so that you do not feel cramped when sitting on it.
- Design Features:
While comfort is definitely important when choosing a bench, so are design features that enhance the look of your home while also providing functionality. For example, if you’re looking for an outdoor space where people can gather around and enjoy each other’s company while they chat or play games then consider purchasing a built-in fire pit or other entertainment features such as lights or speakers that connect wirelessly to your phone.
- Budget:
Budget is an important factor when choosing any piece of furniture. When shopping for benches, keep in mind that they are not cheap! A good quality bench will cost anywhere between $300-$1000+. If you’re looking at something more affordable than this, then be prepared for some short-term problems like rusting or cracking over time due to poor-quality products or materials being used.
There are many factors to consider when choosing an outdoor bench, but if you figure out your priorities you will find the right one for you.