This year’s most fashionable patio trends are fiberglass umbrellas with flexible poles, an improvement over aluminum poles that can snap easily in high winds. Already, the resort industry has caught on, covering patios with furniture built to withstand rough weather.
“People are buying outdoor furniture that is easy to maintain and looking for materials that won’t rust, crack, peel or blister,” said April Standiford, sales associate at Offenbacher?s in Cockeysville. “Instead of glass top tables that are difficult to keep clean, people are buying solid tops or even marble,” she said.
At Offenbacher?s, a popular furniture choice is cast aluminum that is solid (rather than tubular) and quite sturdy. Weatherproof wicker, made with resin or vinyl, is also a top seller, according to Standiford.
Dunnrite, a Sykesville furniture manufacturer, makes outdoor items from specially tempered PVC pipe. Stabilizers keep it from fading, yellowing or rusting, according to Lane Jernigan, manager of the Dunnrite store in Columbia.
The sling of the chairs is made from vinyl mesh.
“It’s tough furniture, impervious to the elements and able to withstand the most boisterous beach parties,” Jernigan said. This season?s patio options also include chat groups – love seats and lounge chairs situated around a coffee table or fire pit.
“Before buying furniture for your patio, deck or gazebo, think about its function,” Standiford said. “Will this be an extension of your kitchen, an entertainment setting or a poolside area? Consider including sturdy chairs with armrests that your oldest guests can get in and out of easily.”
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» For more information, visit www.offenbachers.com or www.dunnrite.com.
