Outdoor living spaces have become as integral to home design as a family room or kitchen. The same care and diligence that go into purchasing furniture for the inside of your home should extend to your outdoor furniture selection as well. Because outdoor furniture is exposed to sun, rain and wind, it is even more important that the furniture be of the highest quality and durability to last for years to come.
So before you head to your local furniture store to fulfill your vision of a backyard oasis, remember to bring your outdoor furniture shopping checklist.
Quality
One way to ensure first-class quality furnishings is to select from a manufacturer that utilizes the right materials, pays attention to details, and has a reputation for distinctive outdoor furniture and accessories that stand the test of time.
Tropitone works with vendors to ensure high-quality materials are always used. Tropitone uses extruded aluminum with reinforcement to make furniture stronger and last longer.
The details in each stage of construction are the key to providing quality outdoor furniture. Tropitone’s furniture frames go through a powder-coating process that bonds the paint to the metal for guaranteed durability. The frames are argon-welded for superior strength. Each furniture piece is vigorously tested to ensure a high-performing product.
Materials
Durable materials are essential to ensuring quality outdoor furniture and the key to safeguarding your investment.
When it comes to metal frames, aluminum is the material to look for. Aluminum does not rust, provided proper cleaning methods are followed, thereby guaranteeing years of satisfaction. Tropitone patio furniture frames are constructed with welded, all-aluminum frames. For superior strength, all load-bearing joints feature full-circumference welding.
Some outdoor pieces incorporate vinyl straps or segments. Tropitone utilizes thick vinyl that is hand-wrapped twice to the chair frame.
As for fabrics, it’s so easy to be dazzled by the vast array of choices for colors and patterns. But, that means nothing if the fabrics are not specifically constructed for outdoor usage. All Tropitone® fabrics are formulated to withstand the elements and have been rigorously tested for durability. Tropitone® cushions are made with quality polyester fill and/or foam and are water- and mildew-resistant. In all Tropitone fabrics, fill and foam are flame retardant.
Comfort
This is what outdoor living is all about: leisurely afternoons basking in the warm weather, abundant meals served al fresco, and cozy evenings gathered around a fire pit under the stars. Be sure to look for lasting comfort in the design of the furniture, as well as the generous cushions that accompany the pieces. Whether you’re trying a sofa, chaise lounge or a dining chair, no matter how stylish its appearance, if it doesn’t feel good, you and your guests won’t want to linger. Feel the difference with Tropitone’s RELAXplus® cushions, which have the luxurious plush and solid construction of indoor pillows.
Style
Whether you are a traditionalist who loves classical design, or a trendy individual who wants a streamlined look, Tropitone offers furniture to satisfy everyone’s style.
When determining your preferred style of outdoor furniture, consider an outdoor space that complements your home’s style. For instance, if you have a colonial home with a brick patio, select time-honored pieces such as Tropitone’s Montreux Collection. But if you have a sleek, contemporary home, then a great choice would be the Kenzo Collection.
Another consideration is how you want to use your outdoor space. If you plan on having separate zones for lounging poolside, serving meals or enjoying great conversations, you’ll want to make sure all the areas coordinate well with each other.
Fabrics and Finishes
Because you know you can depend on outdoor-quality, weather-resistant materials, you can focus your attention on the pleasure of choosing from the wide array of textile and finish colors and styles. This is where you can put your stamp on the design and customize your outdoor furniture.
Finishes are available in multiple colors ranging from cool, smooth grey tones, to warm, earthy browns.
Look around your home and let your style inform your decisions. If you gravitate towards soothing neutrals, you can find many coordinating colors and subtle patterns. But if you’re someone who loves a pop of color, you will not be disappointed. Tropitone’s fabric offering includes every color of the rainbow and an impressive selection of patterns: stripes, florals and many more. Tropitone collaborates with the world’s best fabric designers and mills to carefully select outdoor fabrics that fit your vision for style and comfort.
And don’t forget about your patio umbrella. Besides providing needed shade, an umbrella is a great place to make a fashion statement with color and pattern. Let your umbrella be the “icing on the cake” of your outdoor design.
Details
Before you invest in outdoor furnishings, it is very important to check the details that will give an indication of each piece’s durability.
Inspect cushions for even and secure stitching and check the fill to be sure it is substantial enough to retain its shape for years to come. Note the tightness of screws and bolts. Scrutinize the welds. Check for glides that will keep the feet of the furniture from scratching against the ground. Inquire as to the finishes, straps or weaves and how they are applied.
Environment
When you look out on your outdoor space, consider the size of your space and how to situate your dining or lounging areas. If you have a picture-worthy view, take advantage of it by arranging the furniture to look out at the vista. If your backyard is more secluded and intimate, create a dramatic focal point by installing a fire pit for snuggling under starlight on chilly evenings. If you live in the desert without the perfect shade tree or patio to shelter you from the hot, glaring sun, a patio umbrella is a must. Your environment will guide what furniture pieces you need and their size. A smaller patio may require fewer, larger pieces, while a large yard provides space for chaise lounges by the pool, a dining set on the patio, and a separate lounge area.
Replacement Parts
Accidents do happen. Mother Nature swings by. Father Time marches on. Consider what service you might need in one year, five years, or even 20 years from now. Tropitone offers many replacement parts to keep our outdoor furniture looking great and functioning properly.
Even the sturdiest outdoor furniture are no match for a teething puppy or an enthusiastic toddler with a handful of blueberries. In case of emergency, you’ll want to know you can rely on obtaining replacement glides, cushions or slings.
Tropitone also provides umbrella arms, finials, and sleeves for umbrella bases.
Warranty
What if your newly acquired furniture has a flaw? Consider the warranty of the outdoor furniture you are purchasing and compare with other stores and manufacturers’ warranties. Tropitone products come with limited warranties covering specific parts and materials. Read the fine print for details!
Where To Shop
Now that you’ve done your research and are clear on what you want, the time has come to find an outdoor furniture store that features the quality and style you want. The advantage to shopping at a store versus online is the chance to sit and touch the furniture. You can feel the comfort of the seat and test the strength of the furniture. To find a furniture store near you, please Click Here to visit our Where to Buy page.
Soon you’ll be relaxing in your personal paradise, enjoying your outdoor furniture.