When spring and summer are just around the corner, many of us begin to look longingly from our desks to the great outdoors. Thoughts turn to sprucing up the yard after the winter storms and preparing our homes for enjoyable summer days. The stores also begin to stock outdoor furniture, offering a wide variety of attractive new designs.

Quality, comfortable outdoor furniture can be an expensive investment, and it’s important to ensure your yard is conducive to protecting your furniture. Before you begin shopping, take a look at your backyard and consider any improvements you can make. Maybe your yard could benefit from a new patio, deck, or gazebo. Consider adding an awning or planting some shade trees for protection against harmful rays.

Despite adequate preparation, it’s important to choose furniture that will hold up under the elements. Here are our suggestions:

• Teak - Westminster Teak offers durable teak wood furniture made of Grade A teak wood. Even without stains and treatments, it still has a life expectancy of 75 years. Rated “best overall” by the Wall Street Journal, teak wood has a contemporary, smooth look and is a popular choice for outdoor furniture. Choose from teak benches, chairs, tables, spa accessories, planters, and even decking tiles.
• Adirondacks Northern White Cedar - A unique, slightly rustic look, this white wood is handcrafted in the Adirondacks. Kiln dried northern white cedar, this furniture is durable and sturdy. Available in natural, stained, or painted finishes.
• Aluminum - Aluminum patio furniture comes in a wide variety of modern finishes. Paired with attractive, comfortable cushions, this is one of the most common choices for consumers. Some of the more expensive models feature granite, mosaic tiles, or marble surfaces.
• Patio Assessories – Think built-in benches, a barbeque pit, or an outdoor kitchen and wet bar. Include umbrellas for shade, patio lights for nighttime entertaining, and patio heaters for cooler weather.

There are many attractive, comfortable choices available when shopping for outdoor furniture. No matter which you choose, always take precautions to protect your investment against the elements. Have fun creating your outdoor living space, and if you decide to spruce up your yard with some fresh landscaping at the same time, look for a certified contractor in your area.