The Ultimate Outdoor Furniture Buyer’s Guide

Crafted by Backyard Living

At Backyard Living, we believe your outdoor space should reflect the same comfort, luxury, and personality as your interior. Whether you’re curating a tranquil retreat or designing an elegant entertaining area, our premium collections and expert guidance ensure your vision comes to life.

1. Why Choose Premium Outdoor Furniture?

When you invest in high-quality outdoor furniture, you’re investing in lasting beauty, performance, and comfort. Here’s why premium matters:

  • Superior Craftsmanship – Built with marine-grade materials like aluminum, teak, and powder-coated steel for durability and timeless elegance.

  • Unparalleled Comfort – Ergonomic frames paired with plush, quick-drying cushions designed for long afternoons outdoors.

  • Enduring Style – Pieces that maintain their elegance and structure season after season.

  • Tailored to You – From fabric and finish to layout, your space is uniquely yours.

2. What to Consider When Buying Outdoor Furniture

To ensure your investment lasts, consider the following:

  • Durability – Materials like grade-A teak, aluminum, and polyethylene wicker are made to endure the elements.

  • Functionality – Think about how you’ll use the space: dining, lounging, gathering around a fire pit? The right furniture follows function.

  • Comfort – Look for high-resiliency cushions, ergonomic designs, and breathable fabrics that resist mildew and dry quickly.

  • Customization – Personalize your furniture with finish options, fabric palettes, and modular pieces that reflect your lifestyle.

  • Warranty Coverage – A reputable brand will stand behind their products. We recommend avoiding any furniture with warranties shorter than 3 years.

3. What to Avoid: Common Pitfalls in Outdoor Furniture Shopping

Not all outdoor furniture is created equal. Here’s what to avoid—and what to seek out:

  • “Performance Fabrics” That Aren’t Truly Weather-Resistant
    Many brands promote fabrics as “performance” without offering the durability you need outdoors. Look specifically for Sunbrella® or solution-dyed acrylic fabrics, which are engineered for fade resistance, mold resistance, and breathability in all weather conditions. Anything less can quickly discolor or degrade.

  • Non-Teak Wood Furniture
    Teak is prized for its natural oils and resilience. Be cautious of generically labeled hardwoods like “acacia” or “eucalyptus”—they may appear similar at first but lack the same longevity, especially in wet or humid environments.

  • Ropes and Wickers Not Made from Polyethylene
    High-quality outdoor wicker and rope should be made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This material is UV-resistant, won’t crack or peel, and is designed for outdoor longevity. Avoid products made from PVC or natural fibers not meant for the elements.

  • Short or Nonexistent Warranties
    Any outdoor furniture with a warranty under three years may not be built to last. All reputable luxury brands stand behind their craftsmanship—Backyard Living will guide you through the warranty terms so you know exactly what’s covered.

4. The Backyard Living Experience

When you shop with us, you’re getting more than furniture. You’re gaining a partner in transforming your outdoor space.

  • Luxury Brands, Curated for You – We feature industry-leading names like Gloster, Brown Jordan, Kingsley Bate, and more.

  • Expert Design Consultants – Work one-on-one with our team to tailor your layout, materials, and finishes.

  • In-Store Immersion – Explore our Ridgewood and Short Hills showrooms to see fully styled vignettes that bring possibilities to life.

  • White-Glove Delivery – From assembly to placement, our delivery team ensures a flawless experience.

  • Holiday & Seasonal Inspiration – Enjoy ever-changing showroom displays and our beloved Holiday Shop.

5. Visit Us and Explore What’s Possible

Backyard Living Locations
235 Franklin Ave – Ridgewood, NJ
740 Morris Turnpike – Short Hills, NJ

Flexible Hours | Complimentary In-Store Design Consultations

Inspired. Outdoor. Living.
Let Backyard Living help you create a refined, comfortable, and timeless outdoor space—one that you’ll enjoy for years to come.