Outdoor benches can be found everywhere, whether on porches, patios, or in gardens. A comfortable outdoor bench allows you to sit down, take a break, and breathe in the fresh air anytime. Whether it’s a backyard garden or an entrance porch, placing a bench can add both beauty and practicality. Benches come in a wide variety of styles and sizes, capable of seating two people or more. How to choose the best outdoor bench for your outdoor space? Here is a complete buying guide for you, showing you how to find your ideal outdoor bench in just 6 steps.
Step 1: Decide If Outdoor Benches Are Right for Your Outdoor Space
Before selecting an outdoor bench, we should first consider this question: Do our outdoor space and lifestyle truly require one? In addition, we also need to consider factors such as durability, maintenance, and budget. Here are some key points to consider:
- Durability: What materials make outdoor benches better resistant to outdoor sun, rain, or snow?
- Maintenance: How much effort are you willing to put into maintaining it?
- Design: What style best matches the existing space theme?
- Budget: How much budget do you have for buying an outdoor bench?
Step 2: Check If You Have Sufficient Space
Make sure your outdoor space is spacious enough to accommodate outdoor benches of various sizes, and leave plenty of room to move around. The size of an outdoor bench depends on the number of people you want to accommodate. Here are the standard dimensions for outdoor benches:
- Width: The standard width of a loveseat outdoor bench is typically 48 inches or more, accommodating up to two people. If you have enough outdoor space and many family guests, consider a large outdoor bench that is 50 inches or larger.
- Height: Standard outdoor benches are typically between 14 and 20 inches high. For greater back comfort, choose a high-back style, such as Adirondack outdoor benches.
- Depth: The standard depth of an outdoor loveseat bench is 17-22 inches. A greater depth is better suited for taller or larger-framed persons.
Step 3: Choose the Right Bench Material
To ensure year-round comfort, selecting weather-resistant materials is crucial. Choose moisture-resistant and UV-resistant materials for your bench to ensure greater durability and low maintenance. Here are some common materials used for outdoor benches. We will introduce and compare its cons and pros.
HDPE
As a type of plastic, HDPE material is waterproof, corrosion-resistant, and crack-resistant. It is especially suitable for making outdoor benches.
Pros:
- Plastic outdoor benches are lightweight and easy to move.
- Low maintenance. Simply wipe the bench with warm water.
- HDPE plastic outdoor benches are durable and eco-friendly; It can withstand harsh outdoor weather.
Cons:
- It may fade slightly under direct sunlight.
- Compared to wooden benches, plastic outdoor benches appear simpler and more rustic.
- Benches become brittle after years of use.
Wooden
Wood can be divided into two types: hardwood and softwood. Outdoor benches crafted from wood offer a sense of warmth and comfort, adding a cozy touch to your backyard.
Pros:
- Wooden outdoor benches are sturdy and resistant to fading.
- With vintage and elegant, wooden benches blend seamlessly with a wide variety of outdoor decor.
Cons:
- Maintenance costs are too high. Wooden benches require regular painting.
- It is prone to rotting or insect infestation.
Wicker
Wicker is highly breathable, making it an ideal material for crafting benches. The woven structure is more fashionable and retro.
Pros:
- Not prone to mold or rot.
- Wicker benches are lightweight and easy to move.
● Wicker benches are soft and comfortable.
Cons:
- High maintenance costs. Benches are prone to stains and require regular cleaning.
- Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause it to become brittle and crack.
Metal
Thanks to its exceptional weather resistance, metal materials can withstand harsh outdoor conditions. There are many types of metal materials. Among them, wrought iron, stainless steel, and powder-coated steel are common materials for outdoor benches.
Pros:
- The metal bench is very durable and can last for many years.
- Metal benches are heavy and can withstand strong winds.
Cons:
- They require regular maintenance to prevent rusting.
- Metal surfaces are hard and can feel cold; Sitting for long periods of time can be uncomfortable.
- When exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, metal benches can become extremely hot.
Step 4: Select a Style You Love
Once you’ve decided on the material for the outdoor bench, you can start choosing the style. Take stock of existing outdoor furniture and themes in advance. Choose an outdoor bench style that matches the theme of the outdoor space.
- Adirondack-style Outdoor Bench: inspired by the Adirondack chair. These outdoor Adirondack benches bring American retro style to your patio, making you feel comfortable.
- Backless Benches: Outdoor benches without backrests are very flexible and can be arranged as needed. It’s perfect for both garden lounge chairs and outdoor dining chairs.
- Modern Garden Benches: Modern outdoor benches are characterized by straight lines and right angles. Modern outdoor benches are simple yet stylish, suitable for various spaces such as porches, gardens, terraces, and decks.
- Outdoor Gliding Bench: Compared to fixed benches, outdoor glider benches are more fun. The smooth gliding rhythm makes you more relaxed.
Step 5: Choose a Suitable Color Scheme
The color of outdoor benches should coordinate with the surrounding environment. If you’re unsure which color suits you best, consider choosing a bench in a neutral tone. Black, white, gray, or brown can blend perfectly into a variety of decorating styles and color schemes. Add some bright colors like blue or yellow to embellish and brighten the space.
Step 6: Add Accessories for Extra Comfort
Finally, don’t forget the accessories. Add accessories to your outdoor bench for extra comfort.
- Seat Cushions: Measure the width and depth of the outdoor bench to select the appropriate seat cushion. If you find measuring too troublesome, you might as well just buy a matching seat cushion from the brand.
- Side Table: Add a side table to your outdoor bench for serving coffee, drinks, or snacks.
Start Shopping: Buy Your First Outdoor Bench
Now that you’ve finished reading our outdoor bench buying guide, it’s time to start shopping for your new outdoor bench. Add a comfortable outdoor bench to your porch, garden, or balcony so you can sit and relax anytime. Here are some Serwall outdoor benches to help you find the most affordable option.
