Aluminium Furniture vs Rattan Furniture
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]There are two main garden furniture materials on offer in the UK at the moment, Rattan Garden Furniture and Aluminium Garden Furniture. There are benefits to both so we thought that we would put together a quick reference guide to take you through the benefits, and disadvantages of both so that you have the information needed to help you decide when purchasing your garden furniture.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Rattan Garden Furniture” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Rattan furniture for many years now has been a furniture style that is chosen by many people. The look, colours and versatility of this furniture are great and can adapt to any garden style. Rattan furniture is based originally on the original wicker style furniture. Unfortunately with the climate being so damp for most of the year in the UK, it did mean that wicker furniture didn’t last as long. This is where the synthetic ‘Rattan Furniture’ came in.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Benefits of rattan furniture” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As long as you ensure the furniture is made of high-quality HPDE rattan around an aluminium welded frame then you can’t go wrong. This will ensure that the rattan material itself will withstand the UK climate, both hot and cold and not be affected. The frame, being aluminium will not rust and stays strong but lightweight. This ensures the furniture can be left outside all year round.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Rattan furniture requires very little maintenance. Covering the furniture with a protective cover will keep debris or animal dropping off while a quick wipe around with a soapy cloth will keep everything look new. If your furniture does need a bit more of a thorough clean then a soft bristle brush can be used to help remove the dirt easily.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”10790″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Bought correctly, the rattan furniture should last for many years to come. This is usually backed up with a long warranty period, sometimes up to 10 years for the furniture. Peace of mind can be achieved with rattan furniture.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Disadvantages of Rattan Furniture” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Unfortunately, rattan furniture can be expensive. Rattan furniture sets made of high-quality HPDE and aluminium frames will be the most expensive, but they will also last the longest meaning that you will not need to buy new furniture for many years.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Aluminium furniture is another good option for your garden and is another popular choice for many households. Below are some advantages and disadvantages of this furniture.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Advantages of Aluminium furniture” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Aluminium is very sturdy and lightweight meaning the furniture can be moved very easily if needed as the sun moves around your garden.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As with rattan furniture, aluminium furniture is very robust and weatherproof. You will be able to leave this furniture outside all year round without any issues or worry of it failing come next summer.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”10976″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Aluminium furniture should always come ready assembled. This means that either the furniture has been cast as 1 piece during production or it has been welded properly. If you have to assemble it yourself then it probably means that you will be using steel bolts which will rust and potentially discolour the furniture.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Disadvantages of Aluminium furniture” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Aluminium is a metal that will absorb heat very quickly and easily. If your furniture is left out in direct sunlight for a period of time then it will become very hot. This gives a risk of burning should you sit on it with bare skin or should you choose to pick up and move the furniture. Most furniture will come with cushions but this doesn’t always cover all of the frameworks.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Being a solid metal piece of furniture, aluminium will have its breaking pints. Continued stress or heavy weight in one area could weaken or snap the aluminium.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Aluminium is not naturally smooth and can pick up dirt and debris which can cause staining and discolouration. It’s always essential to look for furniture that has either been chemically treated to avoid this or furniture that has been painted or powder coated to give the required protection.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Both styles of furniture have their benefits and their downsides. We hope that this has given you a bit more information to help you decide when choosing your garden furniture.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As always, if you have any questions or would like some advice, please feel free to contact us directly.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Ideas for setting the perfect outdoor mood
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Your garden is not just a garden, it is an extension of your home and ultimately you. It’s a place where people see the opportunities for things that they might not necessarily want, or do in their homes, but in the garden it’s perfect![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We have put together a list of different rattan furniture types that will help set the mood for whatever you have in mind. With the right level of detail, there’s no reason your outdoor space cant be perfect![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Dining sets create happy moods” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Creating a happy mood can be achieved with a rattan dining set. The fun times that can be shared, formally or informally around a dining table are priceless. With the flow of drinks and good food, everyone starts to feel relaxed and happy to be there enjoying their entertainment.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]With the ability to buy large tables and more chairs, you can expand on your rattan garden furniture choice so it perfectly suits your requirements.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”10960″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]
[/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Firing up the BBQ and enjoying the fresh smell of food sizzling away while your knockback another cold beer on a sunny day is just perfect! All the fun and enjoyment is shared around your rattan dining set.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Calming mood with a firepit” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”10963″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Whether inside or outside, there is something very calming about the flicker of a real flame. This is where a beautiful garden firepit can add that element of a natural calming atmosphere.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]The warming heat and the crackle of wood burning can be a perfect way to chill out and provide some relaxing ambience to your garden.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]There are now many different fire pits to choose from. You could opt for the natural wood-burning style to give that ‘real fire’ experience. These often come made from steel and you can get them in several different shapes and styles. You could opt for a chimney style design that would look neat in a corner area or go for a large ‘pan’ style that would be below a coffee table.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The other choice is the propane style gas fire pits. These are often made as part of your rattan furniture choice. They can be built in very easily to a coffee table or dining table and provide the heat and flickering flame-like a natural fire. Being gas it is a lot easier to control and ensure you have things exactly how you want them![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Peaceful time with a sun lounger” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]If you need your garden to be that place that is peaceful, tranquil and easy to unwind in, then we would strongly suggest a rattan sun lounger. Sun loungers are very personal and create space for just 1 person. Depending on the design you purchase, you can lay down, unwind and relax in peace without any disturbance.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Don’t forget to take yourself a good book and a glass of cold wine so that you can properly get away from the daily grind of life. If you have purchased a fabric sun lounger or some cushions then don’t worry about getting sun cream, or even a wine spillage on them, they will wash very easily.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”10965″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Bar sets for that noisy party evening” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Nothing says ‘Party’ more so than walking out into your garden and seeing a bar table and bar stools set up with drinks and snacks. The opportunity to let your hair down while you sit around your rattan bar table drinking with friends.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”10968″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Bar sets provide a very social style setting and encourage all different things to happen. Some good, some bad but you can be sure t always have a good time! Get the BBQ going as well and the evening will be remembered for a very long time to come! The best way to bring the pub to your back garden![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Corner Sofas for chilled out family time” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Having relaxing family time outside in the garden is very important. Getting some fresh air as well as catching the sun for a bit will naturally make people feel relaxed and happier. A corner rattan sofa is a great way to encourage this. Taking the family outside with a few drinks and snacks is a great way to unwind and just spend some time talking.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Rattan corner sofa sets are expandable to whatever size you require. Their modular setup is ideal to help provide more seating and space to relax. If you have the space then you could look at setting up an outdoor TV or projector and spending some evenings outdoors enjoying a movie night together under the stars![/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”10970″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As with all of the suggestions above, it’s very important to look at other accessories for your garden that will add to the desired mood. Lighting is by far the easiest to do. This may range from spotlights to really giving a bright cheerful garden or something a bit more subtle to help with a relaxing evening.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Another great option is a water feature. The sound of running water has always been something associated with relaxation and being calm. Setting up a nice fountain for your garden could really help change the mood completely.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]For people who are looking for excitement then a beer or wine cooler may be an option along with some kind of sound system to really get the party going![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As always, if there is anything you need help with please email us and we will do our best to help in any way that we can.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Looking at the Rattan Sofa Set
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]With Spring just around the corner (hopefully) we are all going to start looking at getting outside again and with this comes the need for rattan garden furniture, inparticular the rattan sofa set.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Rattan Outdoor Sofa Set” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]The most popular choice to date has been the rattan sofa set. There are numerous styles, colours and layouts that you can now choose from. We have 2 seater rattan sofa sets, 3 seater rattan sofa sets, rattan armchairs to match and also the rattan corner sofa set. All of these sets will usually come with a matching rattan coffee table. With the great selection of sizes and the modular formation, there is a rattan sofa set for any garden patio or balcony.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As with any rattan furniture, it’s not just about how it looks. Any rattan garden furniture that you buy has to be comfortable. If you are the type of person who is likely to be spending several hours outside entertaining then comfort should be a must! Our rattan sofa sets come complete with soft padded seat cushions and matching back cushions as standard. Sinking into your furniture and relaxing is what we aim to give with all our rattan furniture sets.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Take a good look at some of the details of each rattan sofa set. You may find that some come with extra scatter cushions. Some may have higher more supportive backs. We even have some rattan sofa sets that offer a reclining function for those of you who wish to just lay back and relax while enjoying the warm weather.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Modular Rattan Sofa Set” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]The Rattan sofa set gives great versatility to be able to move things around and fit in comfortably with your garden. The modular sofas can be set up to be as large or as small as you need. The lightweight structure of the rattan garden furniture also means that moving things around is easy ensuring that you create a relaxing outdoor space to share with friends and family.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”10950″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”10952″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]As we have mentioned in previous articles, the beauty of rattan garden furniture is its ability to be virtually maintenance-free. All we recommend is that you keep it covered when not in use as this keep any leaves or animals off the furniture. We also suggest using a mild soapy water solution from time to time to keep the rattan looking clean and fresh. Use a soft bristle brush to remove anything that doesn’t wash right off.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]For the maintenance of the cushions, we would recommend keeping these in a summerhouse or garage during the winter. Most covers will be machine washable to check the label to confirm how to wash them. Do not tumble dry as this may shrink the covers.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]If the rattan furniture is looked after properly by following the guidelines given then it will last for many years to come. Your rattan sofa set of choice will remain part of your garden year after year.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Rattan sofa sets are definitely the less formal garden choice of furniture. As long as you are happy spending time entertaining and not formal dining then you will have chosen correctly. Dining with a rattan sofa set is not as easy as a dining table will be too high for the seating and a coffee table potentially too low. If you are looking for something more formal, then we would suggest a rattan dining set.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]
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