For many of us purchasing outdoor benches, a bench's style is at least half the reason it gets selected for home display. But the other half of that reason - its use - is just as, if not more, important than pure looks.
So how do you determine whether a particular garden bench will serve you well? It's easier than you think.
Outdoor Bench Buying Tips
Mind the weather. Bear in mind: a wrought iron bench will be hot in the summer if it's in full light, while a stone bench will be colder during cool months (or shady spring mornings). Choose a outdoor bench material that will also withstand the elements based on where it is to be located; a wicker bench, for example, might not serve you as well as a wooden bench if it's to provide outdoor seating in an unsheltered garden. Do remember to choose a outdoor bench with a slanted back if it may be fully exposed to rain - this way, water will run off.
Try it on. Perhaps the best way to choose a garden bench is, as obvious as it may seem, to sit on it. Look for a garden bench with a comfortable seat (test this for at least 5 minutes), a shoulder-high backrest, and wide armrests that have room for an arm and a drink. Some garden benches can come with bench pillows or bench cushions, and you'll want to inspect these, too; make sure the fabric is of high quality, and make sure the filling won't flatten out after a single busy summer-party season.
Give outdoor benches a good once-over. Keep an eye out for rough wooden edges, splinters, screws, nails, or any other imperfections that can compromise the life of the outdoor bench or the comfort of outdoor bench users. |  |
