When choosing furniture, deciding on the proper material is crucial for longevity and comfortability. This week we’re walking you through what material is best to buy when and for what purposes,. Once you understand the benefits of these materials, you’ll be able to better make the right decisions for redecorating your home.
Wood
Different types: Wood is by far the most varying material on our list. There are many different types, all serving unique purposes and providing different amounts of durability. Ash, birch, walnut, and many other types of wood are commonly used in the construction of furniture.
Best uses: Often times, wood furniture is used for more structural pieces than lounging or decorative furniture. For example, it’s more common to install wooden shelves or use a wooden dresser than using a wooden couch. While it’s often used in the construction of a piece, it’s most often covered with other materials. Since some types of wood can be more expensive than others, it’s important to choose wisely when decorating or remodeling your home.
Longevity: The issue with choosing wood is that the longevity depends heavily on the type of wood you choose and what purpose you’ll be using the wood for. Are you installing storage units or decorating your ceiling with wooden beams? Do your research prior to deciding on a certain type of wood in order to better understand the longevity you’ll see in your project. Also think about different types of wood treatments for different purposes. For example, your cabinets will want some type of waterproofing whereas a rocking chair in the sunroom likely won’t need it.
Metal
Different types: The most common types of metal furniture and decor are made from aluminum, wrought iron, stainless steel or powder-coated steel. Depending on the quality chosen, your metal furniture will vary in weight, price, and durability. A factor to consider when choosing metal is that there are far fewer options in comparison to other materials (such as wood).
Best uses: If the metal furniture you choose is aluminum, you can rest assured that the material won’t rust. This means you can use aluminum furniture outside and not worry about dragging it under cover when the clouds get dark. Because of this, we suggest using metal furniture for outdoor purposes and pairing it with modern pillows and decor to create an industrial look. However, it is also very light, so make sure you have a way to secure it during windy weather.
Longevity: Many metal furniture pieces are treated to resist heat and water. This means that depending on the type of metal you choose, your furniture can last upwards of 30-40 years. If you opt for a more inexpensive option, you should plan on replacing your metal furniture long before that time.
Plastic
Different types: There are a small handful of different types of plastics used for furniture. While there are plenty of different chemicals used when constructing plastic furniture, most of the time, it doesn’t make a huge difference to the consumer. What truly matters when choosing between different plastic furniture pieces is the density and weight of the piece. If your plastic furniture will be living outdoors, make sure to choose a denser option to resist wind or potential theft.
Best uses: If you have kids (or friends and family who are young at heart), it might be wise to opt for all of the plastic furniture pieces you can find. Plastic isn’t easily broken, can be cleaned easily, and is usually the most inexpensive option. If you feel nervous about breaking the bank on a beautiful outdoor patio set because your kids might harm it, opt for a beautiful plastic patio set instead. You can always upgrade when they’re older (and less likely .
Longevity: While plastic furniture might be able to stand the test of kids, it won’t likely stand the test of time. Plastic furniture is susceptible to sun damage and will begin cracking in a short period of time. If you opt for plastic furniture, prepare to repurchase the same piece within a year or two.
Wicker
Different types: There are rattan, cane, and wicker pieces that all fall under the “wicker” category. While the materials look and feel very similar, they all serve their own purpose LINK TO The Wickery – Wicker 101: What Not To Buy. Most wicker materials fall relatively in the same price range, with the main price differentiators being the quality of the material, size of the piece, and style of the weaving pattern.
Best uses: Wicker is durable, long lasting, comfortable, and stylish. Wicker can be used both indoors or outdoors and can withstand many different weather variations (especially with some extra weatherproofing). While wicker decor is pretty, we recommend choosing oversized couches or other lounge furniture to really bring your space together. By pairing your dark wicker stained couch with oversized pillows, your guests will feel right at home.
Longevity: The longevity of your wicker is where the quality of the material comes in to play. There are pros and cons to different types of wicker, and depending on your intended use, you should consult your wicker experts to decide on the proper wicker material.
Deciding on furniture can be stressful. With us, it doesn’t have to be. Give us a call today, and we’ll be happy to answer all of your decorating questions and needs.
