Ancient Pompeii included patio furniture as part of its culture, with relics dating to the eighth century found at the volcano's ruins. This ancient society's contribution to outdoor furnishings lives on as many modern households now include these sets as part of their backyard settings.
Sometimes referred to as garden furniture, patio pieces will include a table, four to six chairs, sometimes an umbrella for the table, and increasingly, a chimenea, or outdoor stove. People wanting to furnish their backyard areas can find these items in the garden departments of many big box retailers and home improvement stores, as well as at specialty stores that sell landscaping, gardening, and barbecue equipment. Some sporting good stores also sell these sets.
A person might furnish his or her outside area with several chairs, a table, an umbrella for the table, and even a chimenea, or an outdoor stove. Chimeneas are commonly made out of clay or metal and can burn wood or coal. People also opt to burn scented wood that smells like cinnamon, vanilla, or other flavors if they want to add an extra element of appeal to their gathering. Chimeneas can also warm up people with their heat. The stoves are made out of conductor materials that allow them to transmit heat to the immediate area.
Because these sets are typically exposed to the elements, they are made out of weather-resistant materials like wood, PVC, vinyl, teak, polyester, bamboo, resin, wrought iron, or aluminum.
These materials are appreciated for their resistance to rain, hail, wind, and snow. However, an owner must occasionally treat their set with sprays or polishes to prevent them from losing their protection from the weather. Treatments can include silica, which is a common material to apply to vinyl, PVC, or resin pieces.
Owners must also check their chairs, tables, and other pieces for wear and damage. Cracks, loose strings or screws, and even breakage must be repaired if he or she wants to continue using the furniture. Cracks can be repaired with glue, umbrellas can be strung again with new cord, chairs can be woven with new materials if they are made out of strips of materials, and loose nails in the tables and chairs should be replaced or tightened. Broken glass on table tops should be thrown away and replaced so no one gets cut.
During the winter, a person can store his or her set in the basement or in a storage shed. Any place that is dry and relatively cool is ideal for storing the furniture. No water should be allowed to remain on or under the pieces to prevent against rotting. A person can cover the furniture with plastic or tarp for further protection against dust and water. The pieces should be properly folded so that no damage comes to table or chair legs.
Chairs, tables, umbrellas, and chimeneas commonly make up patio furniture sets. They are a popular choice for people wanting to sit outside to eat or host parties, or simply to enjoy their yards. Waterproofing, correctly storing, and repairing these items will ensure that the owner can enjoy them for several years.
