“Patio conversation set” is the name given to patio chair, table and sofa combinations by contrast to dining-style seating. For outdoor patios, the weather is a critical element in choosing a patio conversation set. Most of these furniture sets are not easily moved, and they must be able to withstand the elements if they are to be functional and long-lasting.
Top 5 Patio Conversation Sets: Wrought Iron
Wrought iron patio conversation sets are designed to be used without cushions. They may not be as comfortable as cushioned patio furniture, but they’re convenient, functional and stylish.
Unlike wood, wicker or aluminum patio conversation sets, wrought iron sets don’t require the user to pull off cushions and store them inside in the off-season.
Wrought iron patio conversation sets are relatively high maintenance, requiring painting and regular touch up to prevent rust. Those who prefer a glossy look will also need to wax their wrought iron sets.
Wrought iron patio conversation set prices range from about $350 to upwards of $4,000.
Top 5 Patio Conversation Sets: Teak
Teak patio conversation sets are valued for their warm, natural look, but that look often comes with a hefty price tag. Quality teak patio conversation sets typically cost several thousand dollars. While beautiful to look at, teak patio conversation sets also require seasonal application of a protective coating to preserve their color and regular cleaning to prevent mildewing.
While team patio conversation sets will lose their color if not treated with a preservative regularly, they will stand up to the elements better than other woods with respect to rot and mildew, even if a preservative is not used.
Top 5 Patio Conversation Sets: Cedar
Cedar is a popular alternative to teak for people enamored with the wood look in patio conversation sets. It is sturdy and durable, like teak, but a little more labor-intensive to maintain.
Cedar is less costly than teak, often costing hundreds rather than thousands of dollars. The cost of cedar patio conversation sets make them a prime option for those who like the wood look of teak but not the price tag.
Top 5 Patio Conversation Sets: Wicker
Wicker patio conversation sets can be made from natural wicker crafted from rattan or resin wicker.
Natural wicker is prized for its strength, flexibility and especially its ability to hold up to the sun. A natural wicker conversation set doesn’t heat up to the dismay of those who sit upon it. But natural wicker is best used in closed in patios as it cannot withstand moisture.
Resin wicker is a synthetic designed to impart the wicker feel without the disadvantages of natural wicker. Unlike natural wicker, resin wicker is not predisposed toward rotting, cracking and mildewing as well as becoming brittle from moisture loss. Resin wicker looks much the same as rattan wicker but requires no special care other than an occasional hosing down.
Wicker conversation sets typically range from $500- $2500.
Top 5 Patio Conversation Sets: Cast Aluminum
Cast aluminum patio conversation sets are practical and relatively care free. Lightweight and easy to rearrange, cast aluminum is a sound choice for someone whose needs include moving patio furniture frequently.
Cast aluminum does not rust. It is especially useful in harsh climates as it stands up well to weather extremes. Most cast aluminum patio conversation sets are finished in powder coat paint for durability.
Quality cast aluminum patio conversation sets tend to cost upwards of $750.
Sources:
http://www.bizrate.com/wicker-patio-conversation-set/; http://www.morethanteak.com/help_center.php?p=furniture-care; http://www.morethanteak.com/features/teak-cleaner-protector-245.html; http://www.simplypatiofurniture.com/patio-furniture-collections-conversationsets.html; http://www.doityourself.com/stry/cedarfurniture; http://www.outdoor-patio-furniture.biz/articles/cedarabuse.htm; http://www.outdoor-patio-furniture.biz/articles/cedarcare.htm; http://www.benches2swings.com/resin-wicker-converts-even-most-traditional-buyers.html; http://www.wickercentral.com/blog/; http://blog.worldvillage.com/home/cast_aluminum_patio_furniture.html; http://www.patio-ideas-guide.com/cast-aluminum-patio-furniture.html; http://www.patiofurnitureusa.com/patio-dining-sets/wrought-iron-sets/ironfurniturecarearticle.cfm.
