5 Rookie Mistakes People Make Choosing Outdoor Furniture
Buying outdoor furniture should be simple. But all too often, the excitement of summer can lead to rushed decisions. From mismatched proportions to materials that buckle under the British weather, the wrong choice can turn your garden dreams into seasonal regrets.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most common patio furniture mistakes – and how to avoid them – so you can make smart and stylish investments that last beyond a single summer.
1. Measuring poorly – or not at all
One of the most common mistakes is eyeing up a set online and hoping it fits. Without careful measuring, you may end up with a table that dominates your patio, or chairs that don’t pull out properly.
Think about how you’ll move around the space. Will guests be walking between the dining set and the planter? Is there enough room to recline on that lounger without nudging the flower beds? You may want to go for modular options or pieces like our teak folding garden chairs that offer flexibility without compromise.
2. Picking the wrong materials for UK weather
The sun may shine at noon, but by evening it could be drizzling—and by next week, frost. Choosing the wrong material is one of the biggest outdoor furniture mistakes.
Low-grade woods absorb water, swell, and splinter, and lightweight metal can rust or dent. Instead, look for weatherproof furniture like teak outdoor furniture – well-known for its dense grain, natural oils, and resistance to moisture, rot, and UV exposure.
3. Prioritising trends over timelessness
Bold stripes, sculptural plastic chairs, neon tones – they may catch the eye now, but come next summer, they often feel tired.
If you want your space to evolve gradually over time, avoid trendy sets that will date fast. Timeless designs – like those in our ex display clearance garden furniture sale - offer a grounded and elegant base you can dress up with cushions or accessories as seasons change.
4. Ignoring UV and moisture resistance
Glossy finishes may look pristine when you first unbox them, but exposure to sun and moisture tells a different story. UV rays bleach colour, moisture leads to mildew, plastics become chalky.
But materials like teak patio furniture, naturally resist the elements. Teak ages into a refined silver-grey while holding its structure beautifully, making it a smart, low-maintenance choice.
5. Buying without thinking about use
A 10-seater table might look impressive – but do you regularly host that many guests? And what if you prefer long, solo afternoons with a book and tea?
Consider your garden lifestyle before buying. Maybe a teak dining set for weekend, or a couple of folding chairs you can tuck away. Your outdoor setup should reflect how you actually live.
Get it Right with the First Time with Royal Finesse
The difference between disappointment and delight often comes down to five avoidable mistakes. With the little planning and the right materials, you can enjoy outdoor furniture that stays strong, stylish, and practical – season after season.
Here at Royal Finesse, our teak furniture is thoughtfully crafted, sustainably sourced, and designed to withstand everything a British summer (and winter) can throw at it.
Explore our full collection today.
