Outdoor Patio Furniture – Complete Buyer's Guide

May. 06, 2024

Outdoor Patio Furniture – Complete Buyer's Guide

The right outdoor patio furniture will bring style and comfort to your backyard. Whether you’re after alfresco dining or a place to chill out and read a good book, there’s something for everyone.

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Patio furniture is functional, beautiful, and perfect for entertaining guests or hosting family gatherings in your home.

We know that buying patio furniture can seem like a daunting task. But here at Gary Pools & Leisure, our experts can help you find your dream patio furniture. We aim to make the process as simple and enjoyable as possible for all of our clients.

That’s why we’re proud to present our fantastic range of brands including our low-maintenance Woodard Patio Furniture range, super fun and stylish ECI Furniture, and classic American Heritage game room pieces.

So, to get your patio furniture shopping off to the right start, we’ve put together this go-to guide. Here you can find everything you need to know about buying patio furniture from finding your aesthetic to choosing the best and most durable materials.

Without further ado, let’s delve into the wonderful world of patio furniture.

Types Of Patio Furniture

Patio furniture comes in all sorts of shapes and sizes from classic patio table sets to bespoke games tables and handy storage units.

Patio Tables

The classic piece. A patio table is perfect for wining and dining with family and friends. So why not check out our wonderful range of patio furniture at Gary Pools & Leisure. We’ve got beautiful pieces by Woodard, Bahama Winds, Summerset, and Plank & Hide.

These brands are all celebrated for their master craftsmanship, quality, and excellence. Plus all Woodard aluminum and wrought iron pieces come with a fantastic 15-year warranty for your peace of mind.

Conversations Sets

A conversation set is different from your typical patio dining set. Conversation sets are perfect for informal outdoor socializing and relaxing. Conversation sets comprise an outdoor coffee table and comfortable seating – a bit like a living room set up but for your garden.

These sets can come in many different arrangements. Whether you just want a couple of chairs and a table or fancy a fully-fledged sofa or cozy loveseat, a conversation set is guaranteed to make your garden more enticing.

Fire Tables

Fire tables are a seriously cool backyard accessory. A fire table is an outdoor piece of furniture designed to keep everybody warm when socializing outside.

Plus, they create the most luxurious and cozy atmosphere. Gas fire pits are safe and low maintenance with no sparks or embers in sight.

End Tables

An end table is a small table placed at the arm of a sofa or a larger piece of furniture. Outdoor end tables are extremely versatile. The perfect spot to put down your drink, snacks, or a good book.

Game Tables

Why not add some fun and games to your home with a garden games table? Perfect for Poker night, Billiards, and board games. Our ECI Furniture range is the perfect addition to any fun-loving home. Pieces include expertly crafted bars, stool chairs, and games tables.

All seriously stylish and durable. And if you’re a billiards champ then you’ll love our American Heritage billiards products – all finely crafted using long-lasting, durable materials. A classy and timeless piece for any home.

Lounge Chairs

Who doesn’t love a lounge chair? A cozy lounge chair is a must-have addition to any patio living space. Whether you want something sleek and simple or seriously comfy, there are lounge chairs to suit every style and budget. So get ready to soak up some sun in comfort and style.

Storage Units

They might not be the most glamorous of furniture items, but we recommend choosing one or two storage units for your garden.

This is a great way to hide away and bits and bobs that you want out of sight. And if you don’t want any storage bins ruining your aesthetic there are tons of furniture items that actually double up as storage.

Which Patio Furniture Set Is Best For You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all patio solution. The best outdoor furniture set for you and your family will depend on a number of determining factors including the size and layout of your space, the size of your family, your style, lifestyle and, of course, budget.

There’s a lot to consider when shopping for the perfect patio furniture, but don’t worry. Our experts will help you every step of the way.

Before choosing your patio furniture set, you’ll want to consider the following determining factors.

Layout & Size

This one’s important. You want your new patio furniture to fit in your backyard space – and look good with it. Choosing furniture that is proportioned too big or too small is going to leave your outside space looking far from its best. So get the measuring tape out and start planning your space.

We want to look for furniture that’s small enough to allow us space to move around, but large enough to make a visual impact. And make sure the whole family can fir around the table!

How Long You Plan To Stay In Your Property

After choosing the perfect outdoor furniture set for your current backyard, you don’t really want to be moving to a new house a couple of months later. After all, you picked that furniture for your specific space.

If you’re planning to move home, then it might not be the best time to be shopping for outdoor furniture. Perhaps your new garden will be larger or smaller than your current one. Likewise, if you live in a rental property be sure to check with your landlord before making any significant alterations to any indoor or outdoor spaces.

The Climate Where You Live

This is one of the biggest mistakes people make when purchasing patio furniture. Yes, you have to love how your new furniture looks, but it also has to be practical. Not all materials are well suited to every climate.

So make sure you keep this in mind when shopping for your outside spaces. You don’t want your beautiful new set ruined by weather damage.

Here’s our quick-fire guide to choosing the right materials for your climate:

If you live by the water… Plastic or Treated Wood

If you live somewhere very hot… Avoid Dark Metals

If you experience snow and ice… Invest in Protective Coverings

If it rains a lot… Plastic, Resin & Cast Iron

Your Personal Style Preferences

Of course, it’s super important to pick furniture that you love. Patio furniture comes in a wide range of styles to suit all tastes. Why not create a mood board to get an idea of your favorite trends, colors, and materials.

Whether you’re into boho-chic or smooth-sleek lines, there’s a patio set out there with your name on it. Visit Gary Pools & Leisure in-store at one of our four locations to browse a range of patio furniture styles. Our experts will be happy to walk you through our many options.

How You Spend Your Recreational Time

How do you want to use your outdoor space? What will your patio furniture bring to you and your family?

Think about whether you’re looking for a place to wine and dine, simply relax, or have some fun with the family, then pick the furniture that can give you just that. If you’re into games, for example, check out our range of ECI Game Room Furniture. Perfect for evenings of entertainment.

Your Overall Budget

Last but not least, set out an overall budget. Patio furniture can range in price significantly depending on the specifications, brand, and materials. Before doing anything else, narrow down your search options according to your allocated budget. But remember, cheapest isn’t always best. When it comes to outdoor furniture it’s important to focus on quality and durability.

Why Buying Cheap Patio Furniture Isn’t A Great Idea

It can be very tempting to buy budget patio furniture. But be careful. Many cheap and cheerful options have a sell-by date. Low-quality materials and manufacturing make these products vulnerable to the elements. You’ll be lucky if they last you one season.

Plus, most will not come with a warranty scheme. We’re not telling you to break the bank but investing in good quality pieces is key to longevity. If you want your patio furniture for the long haul, make durability a top priority.

The Best Materials For Durability

When it comes to durability some materials come up trumps. Solid wood patio furniture is incredibly classic, beautiful, and long-lasting. Another great option when it comes to durability is resin wicker. Resin wicker is a composite of synthetic fibers woven together.

This is great for people who love the country-style look of wicker furniture but want something much stronger and weather resistant.

If you’re into that vintage, cottage-style look the wrought iron might just be the material of your dreams. It’s extremely durable and absolutely stunning to look at. If wrought iron is out of your budget, then steel is a fantastic option. It’s affordable, durable, and low maintenance.

Finding Your Aesthetic

If you’re not entirely sure what look you’re going for in your backyard, don’t sweat. Our experts at Gary Pools & Leisure can help you find your ideal aesthetic. For a more rustic look, we can show you a wide range of beautiful solid word pieces.

Or for a minimalist look, we’ll point you in the direction of our super stylish metal pieces and luxurious fire tables.

Trying to find your look? Here’s what you should do.

1. Write Down What You Need

Start with the practicalities. What function is your new patio furniture going to serve?

2. Try Before You Buy

Visit us in-store and try out our range of beautiful patio furniture. Find out what you like firsthand.

3. Pick A Color Scheme

Are you after classic neutrals or a pop of color? Look for furnishings that will enhance your existing space and make your backyard look its best.

4. Consider Durability

Think about your environment. Which materials suit your climate and your lifestyle? If in doubt, ask a member of our expert team in sore or online. We’re always happy to help.

Find Your Dream Patio Furniture With Gary Pools And Leisure

Did you find this article interesting? For more outdoor lifestyle tips check out our company blog. Our experts at Gary Pools & Leisure can help you find your dream patio furniture. We’re always happy to help.

Take a look at our online resource center, where you’ll find FAQs, testimonials, and a designated video gallery where you’ll be able to view some of our products in action.

Fire Pit Buyer's Guide - Get the Best

Fire Pits by Style Fire Pits by Material Fire Pits by Size Fire Pit Accessories

Fire pits are an excellent way to bring the rustic feel of a well-lit campfire into your house’s deck, patio, backyard, and other areas. These pits can be used all year round and provide users with a warm area to relax with their friends and family members. Fire pits are vastly different from outdoor heaters. Unlike the latter, fire pits can provide more than 360 degrees of flames to your entertaining area outdoors.

There are tons of fire pits available in the market. You will find no shortage of designs and sizes, so much so that choosing one could get confusing. Nevertheless, these fire pits' overabundance ensures that you can choose one according to your stylistic preferences and house's design. Are you looking for a high-quality fireplace for your patio or lawn? If the answer is yes, continue reading this piece as we will discuss everything you need to know about this accessory and how to choose it.

Fire Pit Fuel Types

As mentioned earlier, there are several fire pit types available in the market. Each type has something unique to offer and has its pros and cons. Whether you have a permanent, temporary, or portable structure, lighting them up will not be an issue with a decent range of fuel types to choose from.

Wood Fire Pits

120cm Cast Iron Fire Pit - $650

100cm Cast Iron Fire Pit Deep Bowl - $490

490

78cm Cast Iron Fire Pit Black - $385

385

Wood is a popular fuel source for lighting up fire pits. People have been using wood for fire long before the invention of indoor or outdoor fireplaces. The best thing about this fuel type is that it provides you with authentic fire, scorching heat, and long, beautiful flames. If you love authenticity, opting for a wood-based fuel source would be a great option.

It is a significant reason behind the high demand for wood-burning fire pits. They offer the real crackle you'll get from wood along with the real smoke and warmth of a campfire. Wood burning fire pits are available in a decent range of options like stone or brick pits, outdoor fireplaces, and wood-burning grills.

A significant reason why many people opt for wood as a fuel type is its cost-effectiveness. Compared to other options like ethanol and gas, wood is more affordable and provides you with excellent flames.

Pros

Beautiful high flames

Cost-effective fuel

Compatible with a decent range of fire pits

Provides ample warmth

Authentic smoke and wood crackle

Cons

Very high maintenance

Excessive smoke and ash

Users need to be extra careful of the long flames as they could catch furniture and other items

Could attract insects

Gas Fire Pits

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Many fire pit owners prefer natural gas over other fuel sources, and for a good reason. Setting them up is relatively easy than wood-based fire pits and you do not have to face much hassle maintaining or turning them off. Sure, gas is costlier than wood-based fuel options, but it is significantly more efficient and lasts longer.

The popularity of gas as a fuel source is a massive reason behind the increasing demand of gas fire pits. Once again, these fire pits come in various shapes, styles, and sizes. You can install them anywhere, as long as you have a decent gas line. Gas fire pits are especially an excellent option for people with permanent fixtures in their patios or backyards.

If you are looking for a fire pit type that use fuel efficiently, look no further than gas-based fire pits. Gas fire pits are available in tabletop, round square, and sunken designs, ensuring they match your outdoors, whether it is your patio or your lawn/mini-garden. While natural gas is a bit costlier than wood, you will find it to be fairly expensive because of its efficiency and longevity. That said, getting a gas line installed may require you to dish out a fair amount of cash.

Pros

Fairly inexpensive in the long run

Excellent fuel efficiency

Perfect for permanent fixtures

Available in different designs

Requires minimal maintenance

Cons

Can only be installed in areas with a gas line

Installing a gas line could be a bit expensive

Ethanol Fire Pits

Mix 600 Ethanol Fire Bowl - $876

Stix Ethanol Fire Pit, Black - $1,316

Base 30 Ethanol Fire Table - $2,196.00

Ethanol is arguably the best fuel source for indoor and outdoor fireplaces. Also known as biofuel, ethanol contains one hundred percent alcohol. However, this type of alcohol is vastly different from the one used for human consumption. In fact, consuming the alcohol used for bioethanol is strictly prohibited consumption. Ethanol manufacturers make sure to denature the ethanol through a variety of unpleasant and odourless flavours.

Most online and offline hardware stores sell bioethanol fuel. What’s most impressive about this type of fuel is that it is incredibly safe, especially when you compare it to wood and gas. Consider opting for ethanol-fuelled pits if you want to add intrigue and ambiance to your backyard. Ethanol is a clean-burning fuel source and can burn without producing smokes or unpleasant scents.

What's more, ethanol fire pits are immensely versatile, which means that you can move it wherever you please. Gel fuelled logs, and table top fireplaces are common accessories that use ethanol as the primary fuel source, although there are tons of other options that use it as well.

Ethanol fireplaces do not provide users with the high amount of heat and smoke obtained from wood and gas fireplaces. However, they are quite safe, and users do not have to worry about things catching fire while their ethanol fuelled fire pits. If you are looking for a clean burning, efficient, long-term, easy to maintain solution for your outdoor or indoor fireplace, ethanol would be the best option to go for.

Sure, it is a bit costlier than wood and natural gas, but its safety and unparalleled efficiency are worth every penny.

Pros

A clean-burning source of fuel

Ethanol fireplaces are easy to install

Does not require excessive maintenance

Ethanol does no product soot, ash, or smoke

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Users can use leftover ethanol in case they close their burner early

Ethanol is an environmentally friendly option

Cons

Relatively expensive compared to other fuel sources

Does not provide the ample heat offered by wood and natural gas

Need Help Choosing The Right Ethanol Fireplace?

Simply Take Our Quiz Below.

Fire Pit Styles

As mentioned earlier, fire pits are available in a variety of designs and styles. You will have plenty of options to choose from, making sure your fire place suit’s your house’s decoration and design. Are you new to fire pits? If the answer is yes, choosing them can get confusing. Fortunately, you do not need to worry, as we will discuss some popular fire pit styles and what makes them unique.

Classic Fire Pits

75cm Cast Iron Firepit Bowl - $345

150cm Cast Iron Fire Pit Bowl - $

1,290

150cm Cast Iron Fire Pit Bowl - $

100cm Cast Iron Fire Pit Bowl - $540

As the name suggests, classic fire pits are similar to the traditional fire pits used in the older days. In most cases, this type of fire pits does not contain modern designs and features. However, it is incredibly durable and can last long with proper maintenance. What’s most impressive about this type of fire pit is that it adds an elegant, old school look to wherever you install it, improving the place’s visual appeal.

Pros

Provides an authentic look and feel

Highly durable

Available in history inspired styles

Compatible with wood, natural gas and ethanol

Cons

Not as versatile as modern fire pit variants

Some classic fire pit versions lack safety features

Fire Pit Bowls

72cm Cast Iron Fire Pit Deep Bowl - $
2
45

82cm Cast Iron Fire Pit Deep Bowl - $
3
25

100cm Cast Iron Fire Pit Deep Bowl - $490

Fire Pit bowls are vastly different from classic or traditional fire pits. Their bowl-like shape improves the overall aesthetic appeal of your lawn, creating a welcoming place to sit and enjoy by the fire. These pits are available in different materials, although most people prefer metal-based fire pit bowls because of their excellent durability. You will require a gas line to light of this fire place. That said, some fire pit bowls are also compatible with wood and coal-based fuel sources.

Pros

Excellent design

Perfect for patios and lawns

Available in durable materials

Easy to install

Cons

Heavier than other fire pit options

You can only place this fire place near a gas line

Fire Pit Tables

Cosmo 50 Ethanol Fire Table - $3956

Manhattan 50 Ethanol Fire Table - $2196

Martini 50 Ethanol Fire Table - $2196

Also known as a fire table, a fire pit table is an excellent blend of a high quality fireplace and furniture. Installing it will add a sense of style and luxury to your outdoor backyard or patio. Ideal for hosting gets and getting warmth during winter nights, fire pit tables provide users with tons of advantages. What’s most impressive about fire pit tables is that while they are a bit costly, they are an excellent long term investment.

You will love spending time outside, cozying up near this fire pit. What’s more, you can also use this equipment for barbeques and cooking other meals. With so much versatility on offer, fire pit tables are a must-have for people looking for an outdoor heating solution.

Pros

Versatile heating solution

Can be used for cooking

Excellent place to socialize

Perfect long-term investment

Can use wood, gas, and ethanol as a fuel source

Cons

Installation may take some time

Not ideal for smaller areas

BBQ Fire Pits

70cm Portable Outdoor BBQ Fire Pit

Vesuvius Fire pit BBQ With Lid - $

525

Vesuvius Fire pit BBQ With Lid - $

Knight Outdoor Fire Pit & BBQ - $280

Fire Pits are great, but what if you could barbeque on them? Fortunately, you can do that by getting a decent BBQ fire pit table. These pits are quite similar to tabletop fire pits, with the only difference being that barbeque fire pits are more spacious and can help you prepare different meals with minimum to no hassle. What's more, this fireplace type contains a grill and ample room for coal and wood.

Most individuals place their barbeque fire pits in their front lawn as they are an ideal area to have parties and other social gatherings.

Pros

These pits are quite spacious

Perfect for cooking various meals

Installing barbeque fire pits is relatively straightforward

Cons

Requires regular maintenance

Moving this pit is quite difficult because of its heavy weight

Portable Fire Pits

Mini T Ethanol Fire Pit - $1,580

UFO Portable BBQ Fire Pit

The Wedge Portable Fire Pit

Most fire pits, especially the ones designed for outdoor use, are quite heavy and carrying them from place to place can be quite difficult. Fortunately, portable fire pits completely eliminate this issue, providing people with a light weight, easy to carry alternative. The best thing about this type of fire pit is that you can power it with your preferred fuel source, whether it is wood, natural gas, propane, or ethanol.

Some variants of portable fire pits also have wheels beneath them, providing users with an additional layer of convenience.

Pros

Easy to carry

Compatible with different fuel sources

Straightforward installation

Made with durable materials

Cons

Not as big as other fire pits mentioned in this list

Not ideal for large social gatherings

Heat output can be relatively low

Camping Fire Pits

Rocket Stove Camping Fire Pit

Folding Notebook Fire Pit

Camping BBQ Fire Pit

Do you love camping during winter? If yes, you will be well aware of the fact that sleeping during chilly nights can get quite challenging. Getting a camping fire pit is a great way to spend a fun camping trip during freezing weather. What’s most impressive about camping fire pits is that most of them are portable and are easy to install. Companies design this product to provide campers with unparalleled experience, ensuring that their time spent outdoors is comfortable and cozy.

Pros

Versatile

Excellent portability

Decent heat output

Easy installation

These pits consume very little fuel

Cons

Not as large as regular firepits

Could be more durable

In-Built Fire Pits

In-built fire pits are an excellent option for people who want a permanent fireplace. This fire pit type is quite unique because it is fit inside a wall. What’s more, you can install in-built fire pits indoors as well as outdoors. While this pit makes for a great place to get cozy it also has several restrictions, especially if you live in a small home. However, the pros outweigh the cons, making this product worth having.

Pros

Most in-built fire pits are quite large

Users can customize these pits according to their preference

Can use multiple sources of fuel

Excellent heat output

Made from premium grade materials

Cons

Lack of portability

Limited features

Could be unsafe in some situations

Requires regular maintenance

DIY Fire Pits

Click here to read the full guide: How to Build A Fire Pit

You’d be surprised to learn that you can make a fire pit of your own. Quite a lot of people who have the skills and technical expertise create DIY fireplaces. The best thing about these fire pits is that you can customize it in various ways, ensuring they fit your particular needs and preferences.