
Along with historic museums and festive city events, Augusta is full of nature trails, beautiful gardens, and scenic landscapes. At Sprague & Curtis, our real estate agents work with many buyers who are drawn to Augusta for its natural beauty and charm.
Augusta homes for sale offer homeowners a tranquil lifestyle. While some people take advantage of outdoor activities, others enjoy the comforts of home. If you like relaxing on your backyard deck or patio during nice weather, it may be time to invest in some new patio furniture. Here are some important things to consider.
- How Do You Plan to Use the Space?
Before you invest in outdoor furniture, make a list of activities you want to provide in the space. Next, measure the deck or patio to see how much furniture will fit in the space. With a large area or multiple levels, you can accommodate more furniture and set up different areas for lounging and dining. If you only have a 12x18-foot space, you need to consider your main priorities. If you just want a space for casual evening cocktails, you don't need a dining table. Instead, opt for comfortable seating, several side tables, and perhaps a cozy fire pit.
- What's Your Weather Like?
Weather and climate have a big impact on outdoor furniture. While dry, hot weather can cause wood to crack and splinter, moist air can promote rot. Wrought iron furniture won't stand up in salty air, and aluminum furniture can fly away. Hot sun warps wood, degrades plastics and synthetics, fades paint, and bleaches out fabrics. When buying outdoor furniture, look for weather-resistant materials and coatings that hold up in all types of year-round weather conditions.
- Are You Comfortable?
Whether you're entertaining friends and family or relaxing with a good book, you need outdoor furniture that's comfortable. If chairs and loungers don't come with cushions, you need to add them for comfortable seating. Make sure that all cushions and throw pillows are made from good-quality outdoor fabrics that are fade-resistant and mildew-resistant. To protect cushions and pillows and prolong use, remove them in harsh weather conditions and store them in a dry, safe place.
- Do You Need Storage?
Unless you live in a year-round temperate climate, outdoor furniture should be stored during the winter months. Adding furniture covers will help, but storing furniture in your garage or outdoor shed will provide the best protection from the elements. If you have limited indoor space for storage, consider outdoor furniture that folds up, or think about building outdoor storage bins on your deck or patio that can also serve as storage for garden equipment or essential outdoor tools. By adding a comfy cushion, square or rectangular wooden boxes can function as extra outdoor seating.
- What is Your Budget?
Ultimately, your budget determines what you can buy. However, it's wise to buy the best quality outdoor furniture you can afford. Don't invest in inferior quality products that will not hold up in outdoor weather conditions. If you're on a tight budget, consider less expensive materials like resin or aluminum, or check local thrift shops and yard sales for good bargains. You can always stain or paint used furniture and add new cushions to dress it up. If you shop for outdoor furniture in late summer or fall, you're likely to find good discounts.
If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Augusta, contact us for opportunities in the area. We can help you find just the right property.