Your Best Options for Outdoor Furnishings in Australia
Choosing ideal outdoor furniture for the hot and humid Melbourne climate can be difficult for many homeowners. There are many options out there when it comes to patio tables and chairs made from different materials, some of which are designed to withstand the heat, wind, and rain. Two of the most popular types of outdoor furniture that can be found on Melbourne decks include wicker and rattan.
What’s the Difference between Wicker and Rattan Furniture?
It can be easy to confuse these very similar outdoor furniture types. Wicker is a construction method through which a wide range of furniture items is made and rattan refers to the material that is used to create the wicker designs. Rattan is the natural fibre that is harvested from various plants found in Southeast Asia. These days, most manufacturers use the more lightweight synthetic polyethylene rattan. This type of material is more resistant to UV rays and water. It also helps to eliminate the overexploitation of our natural rattan resources. To make things even more confusing, many people refer to synthetic rattan as resin wicker.
The Benefits of Buying Polyethylene Rattan Furniture
If you are looking for lightweight outdoor furniture in Melbourne, polyethylene resin is a good choice. Rattan material is not as bulky or heavy as wooden furniture or teak. It is also very easy to maintain. You can choose from various colours and styles and the price range is ideal for any budget. You also have the option to choose from many shapes and sizes when you are buying polyethylene rattan furniture. Many pieces also come with coordinating cushions that add even more style and comfort.
What to Pay Attention to When Buying Wicker Furniture
To get exceptional wicker furniture at a great value, there are several things that you should pay attention to. You want to look at the frame to ensure that it is strong and durable. Wicker furniture can be manufactured with aluminium or stainless steel frames for added durability. Aluminium is one of the most widely used materials because it doesn’t rust and although it does oxidate, that doesn’t hinder the material’s strength.
You should also pay attention to the weave of the furniture and choose the ideal type that you prefer. Wicker furniture comes in flat, half-round, or narrow round styles. The most lightweight of these weaves is flat rattan. Narrow round rattan will use more material and therefore creates a much heavier product, which some people may prefer since it is also sturdier. It will also last longer since it is thicker than your standard flat wicker weave.
When you are looking for any type of outdoor products, you should choose a type that is UV resistant. Rattan that is made without UV stabilisers can become brittle or worn when it is left out in the hot sun for too long. The best way to ensure that your polyethylene rattan is UV stable is to look at its warranty. Most pieces will have at least a one-year warranty.