How Should I Choose Patio Chairs?

The first consideration when choosing patio chairs is your budget. Patio chairs range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars -- there's a big difference between having molded plastic chairs and having an elegantly padded deluxe chaise lounge. However, if your budget is low and you're willing to put in the work, you may be able to find a used chaise lounge patio chair at a flea market and fix it up. If you'd rather have a really casual look on your deck or in your backyard, you could just buy new inexpensive patio chairs.

Molded plastic patio chairs are very inexpensive and work especially well around pools since they have no fabric and can be easily dried and cleaned with toweling. Plastic chairs can also be hosed down with the garden hose. These types of chairs don't fold, so they take up more storage space in a shed or basement at the end of the season.

Folding plastic and metal chairs may be a better choice if space is an issue. Metal chairs with plastic seats can be folded and stored away to use for guests on the patio during barbecues. Folding chairs with cloth seats and backrests are also a good choice for seating on patio decks. These chairs are often lightweight and may be transported to sports games and taken on camping trips. Some of these types of patio chairs come with a carrying bag.

For permanent backyard or deck furniture, larger non-folding pieces may be desired. Wooden seating such as Adirondack chairs are a popular yet timeless look for patios. Adirondack patio chairs are classic outdoor chairs that may feature a slightly slanted seat. They may be sold in natural wood finishes or painted in decorative colors.

Patio chairs used for outdoor dining should of course fit well with the dining table. Many patio dining tables feature a large umbrella in the center to serve as a sun shade. Chairs sold with these tables are often lightweight metal and have padded cushions to make the seats more comfortable.

Wrought iron patio chairs are a more expensive choice but also extremely durable and elegant. They can add a wonderful classic look that most plastic and lightweight plain metal chairs just can't match. Wrought iron patio chairs and tables usually make a good investment since they are often nice enough to use indoors.