Firstly, let’s define what I mean by a garden furniture set. This would be a garden table and garden chairs, possibly with a parasol, base and cushions. Under normal conditions, we are just talking of the garden table and garden chairs.
Garden furniture sets come in all shapes and sizes. This is determined by the shape of the garden table, which could be round, square, oval, elliptical or even triangular. There are even other shaped garden tables on the market, but less common. Personally, I prefer the round table, no larger than 150cms across. This allows up to eight garden chairs, but is ideal for six. With this set up, you can easily speak to everyone at the table without having to shout. If you want a garden parasol, the ideal choice would be to have a cantilever design, which will stand to the side of the garden table and will not impede conversation. A normal garden umbrella will sit in the middle of the table and you find yourself always looking round it to speak to the person sitting opposite.
There are, of course, small two seater or Bistro garden furniture sets and it’s possible to purchase garden tables that will seat 12 or more people – but these are more for parties! Generally, these larger tables tend to be long, rectangular or oval, as the logistics of making a large round garden table become quite horrendous.
There are many materials used in the production of garden furniture sets. Examples are aluminium garden furniture, cast aluminium garden furniture, wooden garden furniture and PVC furniture. The choice is yours and each material has its own qualities. Metal garden furniture is stronger but may require attention if it is steel. Wooden garden furniture may also require regular attention, if you wish to keep the colour.
Of course, all materials used in the manufacture of garden furniture sets are designed to be used outdoors. They will generally, therefore, be pre-treated accordingly at the factory and should be ready to use when they arrive. The quality of the finished item will possible be governed by the amount you pay! As with everything, the more expensive your garden furniture set is, the more likely that the quality will be good.
Spend a little time on research and ensure that you have a look at a lot of garden furniture sets before you buy!