Decoding the Price Tag: Why Is Patio Furniture Expensive?

Stepping into your backyard or patio with a cup of coffee in hand, settling into a comfortable outdoor chair, and enjoying the fresh air is a pleasure many homeowners treasure. However, many homeowners who want to add furniture to their patios and other outdoor spaces have wondered about patio furniture and decor prices. Sometimes, homeowners experience sticker shock at the prices compared to other indoor furniture.

In this blog, we answer the question many people have: Why is outdoor furniture so expensive? Once you understand the factors contributing to pricing, you can manage your expectations and determine how much you should invest in quality outdoor furniture.

Why Is Patio Furniture So Expensive?

There are plenty of reasons why quality patio furniture typically comes with a high price tag. In addition to aesthetics, premium outdoor furniture is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring durability over time. Some common factors include:

High-Quality Materials

Patio furniture can be pricey because of the quality of the materials used. Outdoor furniture tends to be more expensive because these materials must be highly durable against harsh outdoor conditions. Teak, for instance, is known for its resistance to rot and insects, making it a popular material for durable outdoor tables. However, its scarcity makes it more expensive than other tables made with regular wood materials.

Craftsmanship

Many patio furniture pieces aren’t mass-produced and are handcrafted by skilled artisans who take pride in creating beautiful, functional designs. This level of craftsmanship ensures attention to detail and structural integrity, making the furniture aesthetically pleasing and durable. Whether it’s intricate hand-woven wicker or the meticulous bending and welding of metal frames, craftsmanship adds to the overall cost of the furniture.

Weather Resistance

One of the key features of patio furniture is its ability to withstand the elements. Unlike indoor furniture pieces that are often kept in optimal indoor conditions, plush outdoor furniture requires weather-resistant finishes, UV-protective coatings, and rust-proof metals are essential. These treatments add to the production cost but ensure that your furniture won’t fade, rust, or warp when exposed to sun, rain, or snow.

Design and Style Features

While functional, patio furniture is also a statement piece for your outdoor space. Designers invest time in creating both comfortable and stylish pieces, often incorporating modern aesthetics, ergonomic designs, and thoughtful details like built-in storage or modular configurations. High-end design and innovation come with added costs, especially if you’re purchasing a set that blends seamlessly with the rest of your home’s décor.

Branding

Luxury furniture brands and brands known for their product quality often charge a premium for their name and reputation. While some might argue that you’re paying for the brand, in many cases, the high price reflects the quality and exclusivity that comes with it. High-end brands often use better materials, provide longer warranties, and have rigorous quality control measures, ensuring their products stand the test of time.

How Much Should You Spend on Outdoor Furniture?

Determining why outdoor furniture is so expensive can help you realistically estimate how much you should spend on patio furniture. This can depend on several factors, including your budget, the size of your outdoor space, and how often you plan to use it.

A sensible rule of thumb is to view outdoor furniture as an investment. Spending a bit more on high-quality pieces will likely save you money in the long run, as cheaper alternatives often wear out faster and require frequent replacement.

If you plan to use your outdoor area frequently or host gatherings, it’s worth investing in durable, comfortable outdoor seating and a weather-resistant dining set. For casual use, you may opt for patio furniture made from inexpensive materials, like plastic or resin, though they may not last as long. Ultimately, your budget should reflect how important your outdoor space is to your lifestyle.

How To Maximize Your Patio Furniture Investment

Even with a substantial investment in patio furniture, you’ll want to make sure you’re taking steps to extend its life. Here are some simple tips to help you maintain your outdoor pieces for years to come.

Keep Your Furniture Clean

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the look and durability of your patio furniture. Dirt, pollen, and moisture can degrade materials over time. Left addressed, this can cause permanent stains, discoloration, rust, and other issues that can tarnish the visual appeal of your furniture.

A gentle soap and water solution should suffice for metal or plastic furniture. For wood pieces, you might need special cleaners to prevent discoloration and rot. Regularly cleaning your furniture will help prevent long-term damage and keep it looking fresh.

Bring Your Cushions Indoors During the Rain

Those wondering: why are outdoor cushions so expensive, should take steps to protect them. Cushions are often the most vulnerable part of outdoor furniture, as they can get soaked during rainstorms, leading to mold and mildew. While some cushions can withstand minimal moisture, taking preventative measures can extend their lifespan.

To prolong the life of your cushions, bring them indoors when bad weather is forecasted or store them in a dry place during the off-season. If you don’t have the space to store them indoors, consider investing in weather-resistant cushion covers.

Use Patio Furniture Covers

Protective patio furniture covers are one of the best ways to safeguard your furniture from the elements. Some outdoor furniture pieces come with covers, while others may require buying additional covers online or from the manufacturer.

Covers help protect against rain, UV rays, dust, and debris, which can cause wear and tear over time. Make sure you purchase covers that are the right size for your furniture and secure them properly to ensure maximum protection. Check on your furniture occasionally and remove any lingering debris or pooled water.

Invest in Outdoor Comfort That Lasts at RRI Goods

Outdoor living spaces are an extension of your home, and investing in patio furniture that combines durability, style, and comfort is worth every penny. Though the initial cost might seem high, understanding why patio furniture is so expensive can help you weigh the benefits that can pay off in the long run.

Elevate your outdoor space with RRI Goods' curated collection of stylish, high-quality patio furniture. Browse our collection today and create inviting outdoor spaces that you and your household can enjoy!