Introduction
According to Handy, high-quality wicker chairs are the perfect outdoor furniture and can make outdoor spaces such as your backyard or pocket garden more functional. However, it is important to understand what makes high-quality wicker furniture if you want to make the best purchase decision.
The Considerations
Here are a few things you need to consider before you purchase a wicker chair:
- Consider the fabric and material type– Typically, most outdoor wicker furniture is made with either polyethylene rattan or polypropylene rattan since they are resistant to sunlight and water and thus suitable for outdoor use. We recommend you choose furniture made with polyethylene rattan since they are sturdier and can last longer. However, they can be also made with willow, reed, and bamboo which are mostly suitable for indoor use.
When it comes to the fabric, only 100% acrylic fabric and Sunbrella fabric are suitable for outdoor use since they are resistant to weather changes. For indoor uses, polyester is a good choice since they are available in many different patterns, shades, and color options.
- Consider the weaving type, color, and texture – Generally, people prefer wicker chairs with flat rattan weaving since they are lightweight. However, although narrow-rounded rattan weaving makes them heavier it also makes them sturdier. So, they are recommended if you want a more durable wicker chair.
Also, ensure that the wicker furniture you select has a tight, straight, and consistent woven pattern since they provide more support, and comfort, and have a high-quality finish.
It is recommended you avoid furniture with synthetic wicker since these look cheap and unimpressive. Always select wicker furniture with natural color strands and textured ridges since these have a high-quality finish. You can also select wicker chairs that complement the color scheme of your outdoor space.
- Select suitable cushioning material – Foam sponge cushion materials are generally found in cheaper wicker chairs and are not suitable for heavy use. Ensure you only choose foam that has a rated density of 28 kilograms per cubic meter for good back support.
If you plan to use your wicker chair regularly, it is recommended that you choose one that comes with sandwich-type foam since these come with layers of Dacron in between them.
- Ensure you select chairs with high-quality aluminum frames – Aluminum is the best frame material for outdoor wicker chairs since they don’t rust, unlike iron or steel frames. Plus, they are pretty lightweight and thus, easy to move around during your time of need.
It is recommended that you only select furniture with aluminum frames that have a gauge of at least 1.2 millimeters. Steel frames are a reasonable option if you want them for indoor use.
Conclusion
Handy suggests you purchase wicker chairs from reputed online stores or visit your local furniture store so that you can inspect them thoroughly. Ensure you consider all the points listed above and choose a product with a good rating and warranty to get the best value out of your purchase.
