All American Outdoor Living Memorial Day Sale-ebration

Experience more than just casual outdoor living with up to 70% off our entire catalog 

The month of May is upon us, and with it comes a calendar chock full of reasons to party. May marks the beginning of the end of the Spring season. Star Wars fans will greet you with the customary “May the 4th be with you” on Star Wars Day; Cinco de Mayo is the next day, followed shortly by Mother’s Day, then The Preakness, and Memorial Day wraps up the month in style. No matter where you’re from, there are plenty of excuses to get out in the yard and celebrate! 

People are beginning to gather socially again as our world slowly reopens due to the success of the nationwide vaccine rollout. If you are among the many longing for a return to normalcy, this might be the perfect month to consider hosting a get-together with your fully vaccinated family and friends. The timing couldn’t be better either; it’s never been safer (in the last year) to visit with distant loved ones; there are plenty of holidays to choose from, we have spent over a year in relative isolation. We are all going slightly insane, and the weather is beautiful!

Here at All American Outdoor Living, we see this as a recipe for some long overdue outdoor fun and festivities. Now is the perfect time to upgrade your outdoor living space for maximum comfort and style. To help with your upgrading project, we have a Memorial Day Sale where you can save up to 70% on our entire catalog of elegant outdoor products.

Elegance in the Outdoors

When it comes to enjoying the outdoors, All American Outdoor Living has perfected the formula. We offer a diverse line of patio furniture suited to encapsulate your imagination. From rustic to modern, we are proud to present our customers with a broad, colorful selection allowing your unique ideas to flourish. Need a Fire Pit to complete that patio oasis? Need a Patio Umbrella to save yourself from that pesky sun? All American has got you covered – literally.

Meet Some of Our Partners

We pride ourselves on offering a selection of the finest brands in the outdoor furniture business. We, along with our partners, offer the highest quality products alongside top-tier service. Whether you are simply shopping online or required hands-on assistance upgrading your space, All American Outdoor Living is standing by to help with our premiere White Glove Service. We think it is a service that is second to none. 

Sunset West: An upscale line of outdoor products that include various modern and luxurious pieces that will make you and your family finally make proper use of and enjoy the external areas next to your home. These carefully designed pieces are produced to appeal to your sense of style and fashion so that your body and eyes can relax when immersed within the Sunset West patio furniture collection.

They create a beautiful contrast between the outdoor living area and your outdoor space’s vibrant natural colors and are available in tan, gray, and white. You can place any Sunset West outdoor furniture piece in a covered or open area and integrate it within a modern, traditional, or transitional style to accentuate the beauty of your patio or garden. You can even use these pieces in a commercial area such as a bar or lounge to attract more customers and offer an unforgettable and relaxing experience.

Cane-Line: The Cane-Line outdoor furniture includes some of our most inspiring and modern patio furniture in our collection. Cane-Line chairs are sleek and elegant. The Cane-Line outdoor sofas feature an utterly relaxing piece of furniture that will make your patio or garden seem considerably more beautiful and curated.

Our Cane-Line garden furniture comes in brown or other contemporary colors and can be matched with any design style, from modern to casual, rustic, or artisan. In addition, you can place any Cane-Line lounge chair or sofa in an open space without worrying whether you need to anchor it to something else. The captivating design of these chairs and sofas allow them to become accent pieces in any outdoor environment. The Cane-Line patio furniture can seat two people and is made of an aluminum, teak, or wicker frame, combined with a cushion, teak, or wicker seating material.

Ratana: The name Ratana signifies elegance in timeless design and exceptional quality of outdoor furniture, ranging from traditional to transitional and contemporary. Ratana outdoor furniture caters to any style and setting that truly enhances your home and casual living experiences. Our comprehensive line of contract and hospitality specification furniture can be seen worldwide, from 5-star luxury hotels to top-ranked restaurants, from international golf courses to global Olympic venues. Ratana patio furniture pieces are poised to create the ideal setting with premier comfort and prestige to achieve the ultimate relaxation for your luxury lifestyle.

Ratana outdoor furniture pieces are characterized by unique and modern colors such as pink, black, brown, purple, and gray. You can place them in both covered and open spaces to make your outdoor living room more comfortable and extra luxurious. Their sleek and elegant aluminum frames, combined with soft cushions, appeal to your sense of style and allows you to relax in your private oasis.

Fire Pits

Gathering around a fire with friends and family is an unquestionably enjoyable and social outdoor activity. The warmth and light of fire are incredibly soothing, whether you’re making s’mores and sharing ghost stories with the kids, catching up with neighbors over a few drinks, or simply stargazing with a partner.

These types of activities have become so commonplace that purchasing a fire pit has almost become a requirement for homeowners. However, with so many choices to choose from, it can be challenging to know which ones are a worthy investment.

Our line of fire pits is among the most adaptable, well-built, elegant, and efficient models available on the market today. The 42-inch Alumi-Crete Round Firepit is our top seller, and a great example of the high-quality pits open in our catalog. This line of fire pits is powder-coated in aluminum with a Teflon-coated clear finish for a look that is indeed the definition of a modern sheik design. Each model comes with optional fiberglass in an array of colors and reflections to truly elevate the style of your outdoor space. These pits are fitted with stainless steel burners powered by propane tanks, making them easy to maintain and incredibly affordable to operate. Make time this summer to gather with family and friends around your new fire pit and enjoy the best homemade s’mores in town. Just don’t let the marshmallows burn!

Outdoor Couches and Seating

Designed to offer proper outdoor luxury seating, our line of outdoor couches, love seats, and sofa chairs take on proportions and scale usually reserved for indoor upholstery. The collection’s styling is timeless; the comfort is unsurpassed, the only thing missing is the environment in which to place it.

Your patio is supposed to be a place where you can unwind and relax, so some kind of seating is needed. If you have a small yard, luxury comfort chairs are a great choice. Garden chairs come in a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, wicker, and aluminum. You should choose the material based on your budget and needs. If your space is small, two chairs will suffice, but if your garden is more extensive, a collection of four or six chairs is suggested.

Loveseats: Our most popular loveseat combines modern and industrial design elements into one eye-catching piece. Its open silhouette and elegant, angular lines are thoughtfully enhanced by details like beveled extrusion edges and subtle soft curves. The Redondo range, which is made of the highest quality materials for comfort and longevity, will last a long time with little upkeep. It has a powder-coated aluminum frame with a polished burnished slate finish and resin feet to protect the foundation.

Large Sofas: Sofa sets are possibly the best choice for garden furniture if you have a large yard. They provide the utmost relaxation. Your garden will look attractive, classy, and decent with sofa sets. What could be better than sitting outside with your guests and talking while enjoying the cool breeze and the fragrance of fresh plants?

All of our large sofas are handcrafted, fully welded into a heat-resistant aluminum frame, durable, architectural grade, and come with a powder-coated finish. The cushions are made of quick-dry foam and come in a wide variety of colors to match your home’s style. They are also UV and weather resistant. Our Coronado Large Sofa is a popular choice and a great place to start your search for the perfect outdoor couch.

If you have ample outdoor space, consider a more oversized couch to fill the space and expand your hosting abilities. Consider our popular Redondo 3-Piece Sectional for the ultimate lounging experience. 

Chairs: If you’re working with a smaller space or budget, consider one or two small comfortable chairs for outdoor relaxing. The Coronado Club Swivel Rocker is an elegant choice that can add a natural boost of class and comfort to your yard.

Don’t wait; the deals are going fast! Visit our showroom for the best deals and be sure to ask about our new ROMA collection. 

America Gets Ready for Backyard Celebrations Again

After more than a year of lockdown and quarantine, people are anxious to enjoy outdoor living again and experience their first tastes of normalcy as vaccination rates climb across the nation. Movie theaters have available showtimes, concert venues are beginning to sell tickets for future shows, and best of all, restaurants are beginning to reopen and offer indoor dining once again. Businesses are still employing safety protection protocols to continue preventing the spread of COVID-19, but it feels like we are on the path to real life again!

The most exciting part about returning to a new normal is the ability to see our friends and hug our loved ones. Now is the perfect time to start planning your next backyard celebration. While we don’t think you need a reason to get together and celebrate (especially after this last year), we’ve got plenty of good excuses to kick up your heels and be merry. Let’s look at an exciting upcoming event and how you can use your outdoor furnishings to have a backyard celebration that the whole neighborhood will want to attend.

Arizona Restaurant Week 2021

We can’t think of a better way to celebrate our progress than enjoying a meal (or seven) during Arizona’s Restaurant Week 2021! Put on yearly by the Arizona Restaurant Association, this statewide affair offers foodies a wealth of dining opportunities and the chance to get outside their neighborhood and try something new. From sizzling Southwestern and soothing comfort foods to five-star dining and international fare – it’s all on the table during Arizona Restaurant Week. So, prepare your taste buds and dig in.

Join the Celebration of Arizona’s Restaurant Week 2021

Let us introduce you to some of the restaurants we are excited to try out this year.

Ajo Al’s Mexican Cafe:

Ajo Al’s is a family-owned and operated restaurant business serving Sonoran-style Mexican food since 1986. All of their menu items are prepared fresh daily, featuring the freshest and finest local ingredients available. Their specialties include smoked street tacos, Mexican pizzas, and their famous frozen margaritas! Visit any one of their four valley locations and find out why Ajo Al’s is no ordinary Mexican Cafe. They also claim to be Arizona’s original Mexican Cafe.

We are excited to try a Mexican pizza not made by a fast-food chain and wash it down with a frozen margarita – which sounds like a perfect meal for a Sunday afternoon get-together.

Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill:

Thirsty Lion’s culinary commitment is to provide an eclectic variety of multi-cultural cuisines, emphasizing local ingredients, bold flavors, and scratch recipes. Their fresh sheet specials focus on the changing seasons with unique ingredients, including fresh seafood, quality meats, artisan cheeses, and local vegetables & fruits. Their menu selections represent popular and culturally relevant recipe creation, including the infusion of craft beer into the food. They have three locations across Arizona and are offering a special 3-course prix fixe meal for $33.

This eclectic menu has something for everyone and features many trendy offerings. We are particularly intrigued by the Scotch Eggs and Gochujang BBQ Pork and Kimchi Fried Rice – quite the cultural, culinary mash-up!

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar:

Quality, comfort, and value are three key ingredients that make The Keg Steakhouse & Bar experience unlike any other. Highlighted by exceptional service and mouthwatering steaks, The Keg creates an atmosphere that encourages guests to enjoy, relax and be themselves. Whether you’re getting together with friends or celebrating with family, you’ll always be welcomed with a smile.

This classic upscale steak house calls to the carnivore in us. From the Bleu Cheese Filet Mignon to the surf and turf Sirloin and Lobster, there are almost too many decadent options to choose from. Just make sure to practice eating with your pinky fully extended before you arrive.

The Sicilian Butcher:

The Sicilian Butcher is centered upon a build-your-own meal experience featuring gourmet meatballs and charcuterie boards with casual dine-in and to-go services. This modern-casual meatball and butchery-inspired concept are the first of its kind to launch in Arizona. They have three locations across Arizona and offer a special 3-course prix fixe meal that looks out of this world. If you’ve been craving high-quality authentic Italian food, look no further than the Sicilian Butcher.

Dine Out at Home

If you are unable or not ready yet to dine out, consider supporting your local restaurants by ordering take-out from their establishments. This year has been challenging for every American, but restaurant owners and workers suffered by closing up shop. Not only can you celebrate some of the best cuisines that Arizona has to offer, at the same time you can enjoy your fine outdoor furniture while helping your fellow Arizonan business stay open.

Restaurant Week is the perfect excuse to have people over and try some exciting new local foods. Here at All American Outdoor Living, we have plans to host a big backyard party catered by some of these participating restaurants. If this sounds like a good time, consider doing the same with your family and friends! Lucky for you, we have all the information and equipment you’ll need to pull off a successful Restaurant Week backyard celebration. Let’s cover the basics for throwing the best backyard bash.

Get Your Backyard Party Ready

Hosting a memorable backyard party is all about providing comfort for your guests. Comfortable furniture, fire pits, good food, and proper protection from the elements are the foundation of your event. Here are some essential items you can add to your backyard to bring the party to life.

Fire Pits

Gather around your fire pit with a delicious Restaurant Week Fire meal and finish it off with freshly roasted s’mores. Fire pits can be custom designed to match most styles using marble, cast aluminum, concrete, and slate. They can also be customized to your gas preferences, whether it’s natural gas, ethanol, propane, or an actual wood-burning pit. 

We suggest getting one that sits above the ground for the first-time fire pit owner instead of committing to a full dug-out pit. Think of it as getting the fire pit equivalent of an above-ground pool; it will do the job and requires a smaller upfront investment and long-term commitment. Concrete fire pits are a great place to start your search. The Round Moderno Concrete Fire Pit is an affordable starting pit and comes with fifty pounds of stunning blue volcanic rock that will make your entire patio pop visually. 

Round Moderno Concrete Fire Pit

If you are looking for a fire pit that is less about functionality and more about decoration, check out the Tavola Concrete Fire Pit below. This pit is perfect for covering large areas of your patio and adding a really elegant ambiance to the environment.

Tavola Concrete Fire Pit

If your fire pit desires are purely about decoration, see the Pentola Concrete Fire Pit below. A few of these strategically placed around your yard will warm your space and make it feel exquisite.

Pentola Concrete Fire Pit

Fire Tables

Fire pits are not for everyone as they can be a big commitment for your patio space and tend to be pricey; if this sounds like you, consider an alternative such as a fire table. Fire tables are functional pieces of furniture that feature a live burning centerpiece. These tables come in various shapes, sizes, and finishes and are usually powered by gas or gel canisters. 

If your family enjoys dinners outside, consider the Trinidad Octagonal Gas Dining Firepit. Its sturdy aluminum frame and powder-coated finish make it ideal for fall weather and are big enough to fit most large families. For those who enjoy a hot beverage in the morning or cozying up and watching the sunset, consider one of our favorite options: The Icon Rectangular Fire Pit Coffee Table. This table can fill your patio space in both form and function, perfect for coffee and snacks.

Patio Covers

Patio covers are essential all year round, but especially so during the hot Summer months. Protect your furniture patio investment by covering your pieces with patio covers. Rain, persistent dew, falling leaves and branches, and wind are all factors that could damage your property in the long term. It is a good rule of thumb to be preventive about your protection practices instead of reactive. Some damage can’t be undone. 

Our outdoor patio covers are constructed of top-grade fabrics and fibers, made of solution-dyed acrylic and nylon fabrics. Our outdoor patio furniture covers are durable and breathable, water-resistant, and will not crack or peel like vinyl. The patio covers are beige and have various sizes that fit table and chair covers, individual covers like an outdoor sofa or loveseat. We also offer fire pit covers, chaise lounge, and umbrella covers too. Our outdoor patio covers will fit aluminum furniture companies such as Tropitone, Mallin, Brown Jordan, or Castelle, as well wicker manufacturers like Ebel, NorthCape International, and Lloyd Flanders, along with outdoor wrought iron companies like O.W. Lee and Meadowcraft. 

Spring into Summer with All American Outdoor Living, Arizona Restaurant Week, and your long-lost friends and family members.

California’s Millennials are Migrating to Arizona for a Relaxed Lifestyle

Fantastic residences. Great businesses. Delicious restaurants and luxury resorts. Add in the low cost of living, plentiful job opportunities, and rapidly expanding infrastructure, and you can see why Arizona is becoming a bustling center for living, work, and entertainment. Faced with quite the opposite circumstances in California, it’s clear why Arizona living is such an attractive place for this next generation of family starters to put down some roots.

Phoenix is more than just a state in the Grand Canyon. The Phoenix metro area has become one of the most popular and desirable locations globally, with numerous companies growing or establishing roots in the Valley, multiple entertainment venues, restaurants, and resorts. An affordable cost Phoenix living, behind Dallas, Houston, and Austin, was ranked as the fourth most attractive metro in the country by Millennials in a Meyers Research study published in March 2019.

So why are so many of California’s up-and-coming generation moving away from the Golden State? Let’s take a deeper look at the statistics and facts that explain this demographic and geographic shift.

Why are Millennials Leaving California?

California is a magical state. It is one of the few places in the United States where you can be skiing down the snowy mountain slopes in the morning, only to end your day with a relaxing bonfire on the beach. There is the beautiful scenery of all kinds up and down the coast and no end to the types of entertainment and attractions one can attend. California embodies the spirit of westward expansion and is home to some of the most powerful and influential people on the planet. Fine dining, rich history, beautiful scenery, beautiful people, first-class merchants, and shopping; what else could an up-and-coming California generation of people ask for? 

These glamorous features make the idea of living in California picturesque. The truth of the matter is these things that have made California such a wonderful place have also made it quite an expensive place to live, especially if you want to raise a family. The hard truth of the matter is that surviving, let alone thriving, is not something every millennial can do. Those who can stay in California tend to have incredibly high-paying jobs, usually in Medicine-, Law-, or Technology- related fields. Those who don’t often have either inherited property or money from family as a means of survival. With such an uneven playing field, how can a millennial born in California without a silver spoon in their mouth afford to stay in this expensive state? 

When it came to people leaving big U.S. cities in the second quarter of 2019, the San Francisco Bay Area beat out Los Angeles, Washington, and Chicago. It was only second to New York City in terms of population. During those three months, more than 28,190 people left the Bay Area, almost double the pace of 2017. 

According to the United States Census Bureau, about 190,000 people left California in 2018 then moved there. It was the second year in a row that the pattern had been negative. However, due to the birth rate, the population continues to grow. According to the California Department of Finance, the state’s population increased by 141,300 people between July 2018 and July 2019, increasing the total to 39.96 million people.

According to a recent Edelman Trust Barometer survey, 53 percent of residents and 63 percent of millennials in the country’s most populous state consider leaving due to the high cost of living. The majority of those leaving had annual incomes of less than $100,000, while the state has seen an influx of those with incomes of $100,000 and higher.

The Problem is Property

No matter how you frame it, the core of California millennials’ problem is the inability to purchase the property. Couple this with steadily increasing rent prices and a stagnant minimum wage, and you have a recipe for emigration. It is not uncommon for millennials to be denied a home loan with a monthly cost of $1,800, only to end up paying $2,200 to rent a smaller place. How exactly does this make any sense?

The average median sales price of a home in California in 2021 is nearly $650,000. Compare this to the average median sales price of a home in Arizona in 2021, which was $350,000. This number is an increase of nearly 20% compared to an almost 2% decline for California.

To afford the average home in California, you would need to make a household income of $200,000. You would need to make nearly $17,000 a month in California to afford that.  In comparison, affording the average home requires a combined household income of roughly $52,000 to get an equivalent or larger property in Arizona. That’s less than $1,000 a month!

Even in a two-income family, hitting the $50K mark is significantly simpler than hitting the $200K mark. According to the U.S. Census Bureau data, the average salary for a millennial is $47,000 per year. That breaks down to about $900 per week. You don’t need an advanced degree in mathematics to understand why Arizona living is such a desirable place for California ex-pats. 

Why are Millennials Choosing Arizona?

The answer is multifold, but it starts again with the property. As we mentioned above, the property values are lower in Arizona (albeit steadily on the rise), and often the properties larger. In simplest terms, you get a lot more bang for your buck in Arizona.

Millennials are at the age where the eldest of them have begun families. The majority are starting or considering starting families, and the youngest of them are waiting in the wings to reproduce. On the whole, this generation has entered the prime baby-making years, and the corresponding demand for housing goes with it. The amenities and appeal of a brand new, customized home featuring the latest in construction efficiencies, as well as proximity to a greater metro area without the need to commute, are strong selling points in favor of a move to Arizona living.

Not only does the housing become in-demand, but housing with enough rooms and outdoor space for pets and children to grow and play also becomes premiums. The average home in California has significantly less indoor and outdoor space than the average Arizonian home. Considering that the weather is relatively similar in Arizona, most California ex-pats find the transition to desert temperatures easier than switching to colder or rainier climates. 

Arizona’s low cost of living and pleasant environment makes it an ideal location for companies seeking employees. Tucson employers, he said, work hard to recruit new workers, which leads to increased migration. Since the job market is tight, they must import talent from other states if they can’t find it locally.

How the Coronavirus Flattened the World

One of the greatest and unexpected results of the novel coronavirus pandemic that swept the globe in 2020 and 2021 was the large-scale adoption of work from home methods. We quickly adapted to virtual meetings, working in our pajamas, and never having to smell someone’s microwaved fish lunch in the breakroom. It was a magical time for those who did not work on the front lines or in an essential industry. You could say that the pandemic and the technology we used to survive flattened the business world as we knew it, breaking down barriers of communication and work collaboration like never before.

The lesson that businesses worldwide learned was how much they truly needed their staff to work on-site. Many companies and industries found that they were just as, if not more efficient, working from home than in the office. Most work-from-home employees would tell you that they ended up working more hours and on weekends when they previously wouldn’t. The traditional officer manager might not like it, but numbers don’t lie, and they say that working from home was an overall success.

As we begin to approach the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, people start to return to our usual way of life. As we do, businesses assess what they saw and learned during the pandemic and reevaluate how they operate from the ground up. For a lot of companies, this means continuing with the work-from-home model indefinitely. Some companies implement a hybrid model, keeping some employees at home while returning other essential workers to the office. 

What this means for the average employee is a newfound sense of freedom and flexibility. With that freedom comes the realization that paying to stay in an expensive area near your office or worksite is no longer a necessity, and for most, a downright foolish proposition (especially if they have any aspirations of having a family). The logic is simple: why pay more when you can have a larger home for less money and still keep your income when Arizona and Phoenix living is just one state away! 

When you settle in Arizona and are ready to design your backyard patio, come visit our showroom at All American Outdoor Living.

Best Picks for Patio Umbrellas

Spring into Summer with a new patio umbrella to keep cool

Spring is in full bloom, and the weather is beginning to warm. As we move through spring and into summer, expect temperatures to hit all-time highs. When you need a break from the heat, a patio umbrella, like the Tucci umbrella, is the absolute must-have for supreme outdoor living. The right umbrella provides an abundance of shade while also adding a splash of style to your backyard.

Aside from appearances, there are several factors to consider when selecting the right patio umbrella for your outdoor needs. The size, material of the canopy, the umbrella’s foundation, and operating mechanism are all factors to consider before investing. 

Initial Considerations

When it comes to selecting the best patio umbrella for your space, there are several factors to consider. Determine the size you need first. The size of your umbrella will determine the type of base you’ll need to keep it stable in different weather conditions. Umbrellas range in size from five feet in diameter to fifteen feet or more. Ask yourself, “What will my umbrella provide shade for in my outdoor area?”

Next, decide which umbrella style is best for your space and lifestyle. Street umbrellas, cantilever umbrellas, rectangular umbrellas, and umbrellas with lights are the popular styles to consider. Think about all the features that matter to you, as you might find several styles that offer all you are looking for and more.

You’ll need a few accessories once you’ve decided on the size and design of your patio umbrella. Most outdoor umbrellas do not have bases, so you’ll have to purchase one separately. You’ll want to secure your investment with an umbrella cover if your outdoor space gets a lot of direct sunlight or excessive rain. Weather-resistant umbrella covers usually have zippers or Velcro for added protection and only cover the fabric umbrella (not the stand or base). Covers range in price from $15 to $75, making them a worthy addition to your umbrella purchase.

Types of Umbrellas

There are two main types of umbrellas to choose from.

Market Models: This is a traditional upright patio umbrella. Market umbrellas are the most popular patio umbrella design on the market. Most models have a vented canopy, which allows a slight breeze to pass through without raising the umbrella off the ground. They feature a central stand that connects to the canopy through several support bars. A tilt feature is available on some market umbrellas, allowing you to change the frame’s upper portion to keep the shade focused precisely where you want it. Market umbrellas are a perfect way to provide shade for a patio table, outdoor kitchen, or small seating area. 

Cantilever: Also known as “offset umbrellas,” these models have a canopy offset from the base by an arching frame. This feature means the umbrella base won’t get in the way of your deck chairs or entertaining outdoor area. When the sun moves from east to west, a tilted model helps keep the shadow from being cast. The arched design of these umbrellas makes them suitable for open spaces. The canopy will loom directly over the seating area if the stand is off to the side.

Of these types, there are two distinctive features that further separate umbrella models.

Lift: There are three different types of lifts: manual, pulley, and crank. When selecting a lift method, think about how much you’ll need to take the umbrella down. Manual lift patio umbrellas, for example, take more effort to work than a pulley, while crank lift umbrellas are the simplest to use.

Tilt: Patio umbrellas with tilt options adapt to the sun’s angle during the day for more versatility. If you’re constantly shifting your chair to escape the heat, the tilt option on your umbrella is just what you need. Tilting the canopy is simple and can be achieved using the following methods: collar and auto, manual, rotational, or push. All of these strategies take minimal effort for the user.

These umbrellas mostly come in one of two variants.

Table: Table umbrellas are models that are meant to run through the middle of a table. Some tables have them built-in as one unit, though most aren’t to allow flexibility and ease with which to replace your umbrella.

Freestanding: A freestanding design might be better if you want your umbrella to provide shade on a different part of your patio, such as over poolside lounge chairs. It’s also possible that you don’t want a pole to obstruct your patio table. With freestanding umbrellas, you can use a table entirely for food preparation or gameplay.

Umbrella Size

The size of a patio umbrella is one of the most important considerations when purchasing one. If it’s too tall, it’ll look bulky and out of place; it won’t provide enough shade if it’s too small. The amount of shade your area will get is determined by the size of your umbrella. Consider how much shade you’d like and how much room you have. It won’t look or feel good to clutter your patio with an overly large umbrella.

It’s important to note that umbrella dimensions apply to the canopy’s width when wholly extended, not the height. Although umbrella widths vary, the height should be no less than seven feet and no more than nine feet when completely raised. The recommendations below will assist you in choosing the right umbrella for your needs.

  • A 5-foot to 6-foot umbrella provides the perfect cover for a bistro set with two chairs.
  • If you want to shade a 36-inch table with two to four chairs, you’ll need a 7-foot umbrella.
  • Are you looking to shade a 40-inch table with four to six chairs or a small conversation area? A 7.5-foot to 8.5-foot umbrella is your best bet.
  • For tables up to 48 inches or small-to-medium conversation areas, you’ll need a 9-foot to 10-foot umbrella.
  • An 11-foot umbrella is suitable for a 60-inch table with six chairs or a medium-sized conversation area.
  • For an extensive conversation area or a 60-to-72-inch table, choose an umbrella that’s 11.5 to 13-feet across.

Your umbrella pole’s height is also critical; you want it to be high enough to be out of the way but not so high that it loses its purpose. Eight-foot-tall poles are the most popular, but there are other choices. Consider the height of your head. A minimum of 7-foot umbrellas is recommended. If necessary, extend the table width by an additional 2 feet on each side. For example, if you have a 4-foot round table, look for an umbrella with an 8-foot diameter.

Umbrella Materials

The best way to pick an umbrella is to match your exterior aesthetics or complement the furniture your umbrella would be covering.

Construction Materials: Aluminum, wood, and fiberglass are the three most popular materials for umbrella frames.

  • Aluminum umbrella frames are the most common choice because they are the least costly, withstand a wide range of weather conditions, bend enough to withstand moderate winds, and are lightweight.
  • Teak and other hardwoods make lovely frames that look particularly good on a wooden deck. While treated to prevent rot and weather damage, outdoor wood tends to fade or change color over time and is more likely than metal to snap in high winds.
  • The most expensive choice is fiberglass, but it is also the most durable. This solid, lightweight material will not rust or weather, and it will perform well even in high winds. If you live in a windy place, consider a fiberglass style rather than an aluminum one.

Fabrics: Choose a fabric that can withstand the elements. The umbrella’s fabric must be strong enough to withstand the heat, rain, wind, and cold. Sunbrella, a standard fabric used by many manufacturers, is one of the most popular. This durable acrylic fabric is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns and can withstand almost any environmental condition without fading. Polyester, canvas, unbranded acrylic, and Olefin are all durable materials that can be used outside. Please pay careful attention to the umbrella’s fabric, as it must be weather-resistant to both heavy sun and rain.

Bases and Stands

Even if the umbrella is centered through your patio table, it takes a heavy base to prevent it from falling over or flying away. Failure to protect your umbrella increases the likelihood of it being destroyed, as well as the risk of injury.

Umbrella bases are mostly made of stone, iron, or concrete, but some less costly bases are hollow plastic that must be filled with sand or water. Some umbrella bases have small wheels, which come in handy if you need to drive your umbrella around.

The heavier the base, the bigger the umbrella, and cantilever models require much more weight than market variants. Some umbrellas come with a foundation, while others require you to buy one separately. For reference:

  • 40 pounds for 5-to-6-foot umbrellas
  • 50 pounds for 7.5-to-8.5-foot umbrellas
  • 60 pounds for 9-foot umbrellas
  • 70 pounds for 10-foot umbrellas
  • 100 pounds for 11-to13-foot umbrellas

An appropriate umbrella base is required; don’t be fooled into thinking that securing it to a table would suffice. Umbrella bases not only help keep umbrellas straight in strong winds, but they also help keep them straight in sunny weather.

Look for the biggest base you can find for umbrellas larger than 10 feet. Make sure the base is made to match your umbrella’s pole. To get the best fit, speak directly to your umbrella manufacturer.

Go here to shop for elite treasure garden umbrellas

Replacement Slings for Your Patio Chairs

Tackle this DIY project as you prepare for Summer

As we get ready for summer, it’s an excellent time to consider upgrading to luxury patio furniture brands sold by All American Outdoor Living. But if you have a sling-back chair that has seen better days, you can use this DIY guide to save you money and refresh your chairs.

1. Remove the old plastic end caps on the patio sling rail

First and foremost, you need to disassemble your patio sling chair to install the new sling fabric. Remove the plastic end caps (plastic covers over the sling rails) from both ends of the sling rails with a flat head screwdriver or pliers. When removing your old end caps, be careful because they are often dry, brittle, and easy to crack. Take care not to damage them (you’ll need to remove them from both ends of the sling rails). Matching plastic caps can be difficult to locate depending on the manufacturer and color of your frames.

2. Remove the old sling material and spreader bars

It can be challenging to get the slings out of the rails at times. If the old slings are very old and have spent a lot of time in the sun, the plastic splines will be very brittle and rigid and will possibly break in chunks when you attempt to slide the old sling out of the rail. You’ll find that the new slings and splines are a breeze to install, particularly when compared to removing the old ones.

Remove each side of the old sling by slitting the fabric in the center. Cutting the old patio sling down the middle with a kitchen knife or heavy-duty scissors is the best way to get rid of it. Unbolt both sling rails before continuing if you don’t want to break your old slings by cutting them in half. The spreader bars, which are metal bars placed between the sling posts, must also be removed.

The sling sometimes becomes wedged inside the sling rail. Break the sling free by moving it back inside the sling rail with both hands. The fabric and plastic sling rod have been wedged up to the top of the rail opening due to the body’s weight lying on the old patio sling fabric.

This occurrence, combined with dirt and debris, gives the sling fabric’s edge the appearance of being glued in place. Spray some watered-down dish soap along the entire length of the sling rail to help loosen the sling and cloth. Allow the soapy mixture to work its magic for a few minutes. It takes some time to soak into the rail and dissolve the dirt and oils attached to the cloth.

There’s no need to preserve the sling rod or spline made out of plastic. As part of the kit, your new patio chair slings should come with a new supple sling rod. It’s doubtful that you’ll be able to reuse your old sling spline because it’s too dry and brittle. Re-threading the spline into the sewn rod pocket of your new replacement slings might be challenging.

The rusty, filthy fabric can easily slip out the sling rail’s bottom end. Grasp the sling with your hands or pliers and pull it away from the sling rail. Someone can keep the patio sling chair in place while someone else removes the old fabric from the rail.

If the old patio sling fabric is stubborn and won’t come free from the sling rail, use a flat head screwdriver to pry it loose. With the flat end of the screwdriver, force the patio sling fabric into the sling rail.

3. Remove the bolts from the rails

The plastic rod or spline threaded through the rod pockets on your new patio sling is held in place by the sling rails, which also support the edges of the new patio sling fabric. Bolts can secure one or both of the sling rails to the patio sling chair frame’s main body. The bolts are threaded into the chair frame via the sling rail. Remove all bolts (usually 4-6) from the patio chair frame with the required method.

Spray the bolts with a penetrating oil if they’re proving difficult to extract (Liquid Wrench, NAPA 6300). The oil would loosen any rust or corrosion on the bolt. Allow at least an hour for the oil to soak before continuing. Bolts and other hardware should be saved for reinstallation. It’s a safe idea to repair the bolts if they’re bent or rusted.

The bolt should not be forced out of the frame. You run the risk of snapping the bolts and potentially stripping out the threaded inserts, requiring additional frame repairs.

4. Take measurements for the new sling

To measure for new slings, take the width measurement while the old slings are still on, and measure the two rails from outside channel to outside channel (click for example) to the nearest 1/4″. The length of the old sling may generally be removed. We seldom use the width calculation by just measuring old slings after they’ve been replaced because we’ve noticed that the old slings are usually stretched or broken, and if new slings are the same width as the removed sling, they’re too loose. When ordering slings, always specify the width first, followed by the weight (width” x length”).

4. Insert the Sling Spline or Plastic Sling Rod

The new splines must first be mounted in the new slings’ side hems that fit into the sling rails. Feed the spline from one end, and it should feed all the way through. The new replacement slings are usually shipped without the plastic sling rod or sling spline installed.

Insert the sling spline into each side of the sling. The sling spline will be longer than necessary; do not trim away the excess until later in the installation process. If you are having trouble inserting the sling spline, try sharpening the end in a pencil sharpener. Insert the pencil into the opposite end of the sling or the end you are pushing toward. The pencil or pen will be pushed out in the future by the sling spline and not caught on the inner hem.

6. Replace sling fabric and spline into the sling rails

Ensure the rails are in the same place as when they were removed before slipping the sling into the rail. Slide the fabric through the sling rails, keeping the tag at the top of the chair to separate the top from the sling’s bottom.

Place one side of the sling into one of the sling rails (but not both) — then remove the sling rail entirely from the chair frame after the sling is mounted on one side — then install the new sling into the other sling rail that is still on the chair frame. 

Last but not least, reattach the loose sling rail to the chair frame. By carefully gripping the ends of the fabric near the ends of the sling rail and gently tugging as you tighten the sling rail to the edge, you can progressively draw the material close to the ends of the sling rails.

7. Reinstall the bolts

Attach the sling rails to the chair frame with the newly mounted sling. Line up the holes and tighten all of the bolts with your fingers. Do not tighten the bolts all the way. You want to work your way around the chair and tighten each bolt a little bit at a time so the bolts tighten into the sling rails at the same rate. Do not fully tighten the bolts at this time. 

Pull the sling until it is even with both sling rails, starting at the bottom of the chair. Tighten just the two bottom bolts until the sling is flush with BOTH sling rails. This action will hold the sling’s bottom in place and secure.

8. Stretch the sling material

Stretch the fabric upward to remove any wrinkles left in the bend of the seat. To stretch and pull the material through the sling rails, use a pair of pliers. Take care not to tear the fabric by of your sling chaise lounge by pulling too hard.

Since the fabric tends to slip back down the sling rail, it may be beneficial to use a pair of clamps to keep it in place. If you don’t have clamps, having someone to assist you with this move might be beneficial. Place your back against the chair. Stretch the sling upward to the edge of the sling rail with pliers until both the fabric and the sling rail are even. Using clamps or having someone keep the sling in place while you tighten the remaining bolts is a good idea at this stage. The sling should now be snug and wrinkle-free.

9. Reinstall the spreader bars

Installing a new sling and reassembling a chair is not difficult, but reinstalling the spreader bars can be challenging at times.

The spreader bar aims to hold the sling fabric taut. Spreader bars must be reinstalled if your chair came with them. Turn your chair sideways, taking care not to scratch the handles. Try bending the spreader bar just enough over your knee to allow it to fit into position. If you cannot turn the spreader bar, a spreader tool will be needed to spread the slings rails apart, allowing room for the spreader bar.

To avoid wrinkles in the fabric where the sling rails bend more sharply, the slings must also be extended in length. Pull at the sling ends nearest to the sling rail with the vise grips clamped on the thread (loosen the sling rail from the frame). Take extra caution here, as ripping the fabric is very easy if you pull too hard. Even the manufacturer has been known to tear the new sling during this phase, forcing them to discard it and try again with a new sling, so be extremely cautious. A few wrinkles won’t damage the fabric or its work, but a ripped sling can be incredibly inconvenient.

10. Trim excess spline and reinstall the end caps

Cut all excess sling spline with scissors, utility knife, or cutting, pliers, then gently tap end caps back onto sling rails with a rubber mallet. 

Voila! You have successfully replaced your patio chair slings in time for the warm months ahead.

A Practical Buyer’s Guide to Commercial Outdoor Furniture

An industry-specific guide for purchasing outdoor furniture for your commercial space

Many of our clients are business owners, and as you know, maximizing every inch of your commercial space is essential to your operation’s bottom line. With the coronavirus, outdoor space has become a premium commodity for restaurants and other customer-facing businesses. Putting your outdoor space to practical use is no longer a luxury you can afford to ignore. 

While fighting the spread of COVID-19, numerous restaurants have transitioned sections of their entrance, sidewalk, waiting areas and parking lots into dining areas for guests. Considering the circumstances, businesses that invest in upgrading their outdoor patio furniture will see higher customer satisfaction and customer loyalty. 

Having a warm and inviting exterior atmosphere is also vital for businesses that are not merely responding to the pandemic’s constraints. Lovely decorated and furnished outdoor spaces can bring people together for business, socialization, dining, and more. This article will give you a brief guide on what to look for when buying outdoor furniture for your commercial spaces. 

What Makes a Good Piece of Outdoor Furniture?

You will, in practical terms, consider several factors when deciding on the right outdoor furniture and decor for your business. If this is your first time purchasing outdoor furniture for commercial use, you’ll want to start slow and add on as you go. The goal at this stage will be to install the essentials and then see how your customers respond. Based on their feedback, you’ll then be able to add more decor, extra non-essential furniture, and other finishing touches.

The most important thing is NOT to use your indoor furniture outside. The majority of indoor furniture is not weatherproofed and will fall apart quickly with outdoor use, adding unnecessary additional costs. If you are converting your business operations in the face of the pandemic, don’t make this easily avoidable mistake. 

Here are few things to consider as you browse the online furniture catalogs.

Climate: Factoring in your local weather conditions is incredibly important to conducting business outdoors. Suppose you live in an area with consistent rainfall. In that case, you’ll want to play accordingly with overhead awnings, umbrellas, heaters, etc. Look for furniture that is made of weather-resistant materials, such as wood, plastic, or resin. Avoid metal furniture unless you live in a predominantly sunny and dry climate. 

Portability: Even if you purchase weatherproof furniture, you’ll likely be bringing some or all of it indoors at the end of your operational hours. Consider this when making your selections, as heavy furniture could be a hassle to move back and forth daily. You may also want to consider purchasing chairs that can be stacked to save space. 

Size of Your Outdoor Space: How big is the outdoor space you are trying to furnish? It’s a simple question, but that answer will guide a lot of your final decisions. In practical terms, you should measure the space for actual square footage to know how much you can fit in your area. It would help if you also tried to visualize your area with specific and enough free space for everyone to walk through easily. 

Operation and Use: What does your business do? Your furniture needs will be based around tables, chairs, and comfortable seating if you are a restaurant. If your company operates in large open spaces, maybe you are in the market for benches or community picnic tables. Take into account your business’s specific operations and how you can factor outdoor customer comfort into them. 

Choose the Right Materials

As we touched on lightly above, the material you choose for your outdoor furniture is critical. Investing in the right material will give your furniture longevity. Weather is an essential consideration as it determines how durable your furniture needs to be. Lightweight metal furniture will serve customers much better in hotter climates rather than it will customers in a snowbelt. 

Another consideration for furniture material is the ease with which it can be cleaned. Some ultra-luxurious furniture will demand more time and attention to clean than some simpler designs. If you are not keen on constant cleaning, lean toward furniture that is a single piece and does not have cushions. 

Lastly, you’ll want to consider design preferences and your budget. Outdoor furniture can be quite expensive, especially if you have extravagant tastes. Your business will dictate what is right for you in this area, but a budget-conscious business can do a lot with minimalistic furniture and decor. Let’s take a look at some of the most common materials and their pros and cons. First up, the metals:

Steel: Steel furniture and tables are a popular choice for outdoor establishments that don’t plan to move their furniture inside regularly. It’s heavy, making it a great choice if you don’t want your furniture to get up and walk away on you overnight. Powder-coated steel is a smart option that comes in several colors and pattern styles. Just stay on top of your regular maintenance, especially after inclement weather, and your steel furniture will last for years to come.

Iron: Similar to steel, iron is a durable and heavy material. It is an excellent investment for furniture that will have a long life. Iron is weighty and hard to steel, and contrary to popular belief, it is not that difficult to maintain to avoid rust and corrosion.

Aluminum: Lightweight, durable, and affordable. Aluminum is an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers and is widely used by manufacturers. It is resistant to corrosion and rust and is one of the few metals used in rainy or humid climates. Cleaning aluminum furniture is very quick and easy. Aluminum also won’t corrode and is often offered in several styles and finishes. 

If metal options are undesirable for your climate or operation, consider one of the following:

Resin and Plastic: Resin is the modern choice and a great one. Durable, long-lasting, resistant to staining, fading, and scratching, this material is an all-star. Usually made of plastic, resin furniture is attractive to the eye and the wallet. If you live in a wet climate or near a body of water, resin furniture is your best bet.

Fake Wood: You’ll notice that real wood did not make it onto our recommended materials list. While wood is affordable, abundant, and fits many business aesthetics, we consider it a poor investment in the long run. Wood has the tendency to warp, rot, and splinter if exposed to the weather for too long. Wood is also heavy and not easy to move quickly. Therefore, if you are going for a wood-look, consider faux-wood. 

Fake wood options offer the elegant look for a wooden piece of furniture, with none of the upkeep’s stress. These materials are very professional-looking and can be cleaned or sanitized quickly, making them an excellent option for restaurants with high customer turnover. Fake wood furniture can easily be spruced up with cushions to make them more attractive and comfortable.

Selecting Your Style

Your furniture’s material is essential, but the design and style will speak volumes about your business. If you are a local bar, your outdoor furniture can be less expensive and kitschy. If you are an upscale restaurant, you might want to consider something with a bit more pomp. Select the right style of furniture for your business by focusing on the following advice:

Camouflage: If you are unsure how to style your outdoor space, let nature be your guide. Customers enjoy the feeling of nature, even if it isn’t a natural setting, when outside. If you add an element such as a space heater, see if it can be placed somewhere discreetly or incorporated into the design of the space. Lean toward furniture that fits around your natural environment and tone. 

Branding: Just because you are outside do not mean you should abandon your regular branding efforts. If you can customize the color of your tabletops or chair cushions, do it. Customers appreciate knowing they are still getting the same quality experience even though they are outside. You may also consider investing in some outdoor branded materials, such as signage, hanging decor, etc.

Decor: Lean into the fact that you are outside by adding elements of nature. Bring in plants, flowers, or even allow animals on-site if possible. Some businesses may even be able to accommodate people’s pets in ways they were not previously able to. Consider setting up a water bowl or keep doggy treats on hand for customers. Little things like this will make the customer feel that you’ve gone above and beyond.

Consistency: Stay consistent with your outdoor furniture purchases. If you start in one material and color, stay in the realm of that original choice. Treat your decor choices outside the same as if you were decorating the inside.

In summary, look for furniture that is durable to the weather, easy to clean, lightweight to be moved, matches your branding, and elegant wherever possible. Follow this guide, and you will find the perfect commercial outdoor furniture for your business.

For more information on commercial patio furniture, please contact us or visit our showroom.

Winter Patio Heating Solutions

After this unrelenting year of the coronavirus lockdown, many people have taken their personal outdoor spaces as a refuge from always being inside. With the home now serving as your residence and place of business, upgrades and remodels to maximize space have become a top priority. If you happen to live in a climate with colder weather, using your outdoor space year-round is not always an option. However, with proper equipment, furniture, and decor, you can turn even the coldest backyard into a warm and inviting space. Let’s look at how to furnish and warm your outdoor space properly.

Before You Buy

There are many considerations to take into account before making a purchase or commitment to an outdoor heating source. As with any investment, it is essential to do your research and then discuss it with a professional. This is a type of purchase that you’ll want to put the thought in n and get right the first time.

Before you buy, consider the location of the heat source. Ask yourself if there is enough space for the device you want and if it can be operated safely. Make sure to look up and check for what is above your potential heat source to avoid potential fire hazards. Also, consider the weather and if you’ll need to store your heating device during inclement weather. Lastly, factor your budget upfront to have a realistic idea of what you are getting into financially.

Fire Up the Backyard

One of the most idyllic and affordable ways to heat your backyard is using a fire source. It could be a fire pit, a built-in fireplace, or even something less traditional like a pizza oven. Your fuel choice can also impact how much your outdoor heating costs you and should be determined not only by local laws and codes. Check with your city or county for any ordinances you need to be mindful of, such as wood-burning laws and performance standards (the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also provides information and links to many regional ordinances and regulations). Generally, though, the most environmentally-friendly choices are butane or gas, which both need to be hooked up by a professional.

Fire Pits: Arguably the most popular modern fire-based heating source, fire pits earn their reputation by being easy to use, affordable, and in some cases, portable. Fire pits come in a wide variety of styles and can be simple or very complex, even decorative if you desire. Fire pits are highly customizable and can be made to fit any decor or available space in your yard. A popular trend in modern design has been to use concrete for outdoor features, and this has translated very well to the world of fire pits.

Fire Tables: If your yard is not large enough or a permanent pit doesn’t appeal to you, consider an alternative option in a fire table. These outdoor tables come in all shapes and sizes, from coffee tables to full-sized dining tables, and feature a gas-lit fire pit in the center. These options are practical in more than one way and are very aesthetically pleasing, not to mention a great way to make s’mores with family and friends. Fire pits and fire tables are also made in nearly all common outdoor materials, so you can get one that matches your needs and home decor.

Traditional Fireplace: A more permanent solution to outdoor heating is to have a custom fireplace built. As with any construction project, this can be simple or too elaborate, depending on your goals and budget. Even a simple fireplace will add value to your property and is a safe way to experience a traditional fire for warmth. Fireplaces can be fueled traditionally with wood or built with a gas-line for easy and quick use. Make sure to consider all exterior surroundings for potential fire hazards when installing your fireplace. Avoid areas with low-hanging trees, wooden structures above, large shrubbery, or plants. If you want to be considerate, consider the wind and airflow’s expected direction so that you don’t end up blowing smoke into your neighbor’s homes.

Chimineas: Also known as a portable fireplace, chimineas are a hot item as of late. Popularity for these items has surged due to the combination of the pandemic and social media. The good news is that these are the most affordable option on the market in terms of fireplaces. Stylish looking and functional, chimineas are a great way to heat even the smallest of outdoor spaces. These are also great options for homeowners who want a longer-term solution but don’t want to invest in a full fireplace because they blend in and look more permanent than they are.

Cooking Appliances: If you are willing to think outside the box about how you heat your patio, consider installing a pizza oven or large grill in your backyard. Not only will these appliances put off a ton of excess heat (especially the pizza oven), but you get to warm your outdoor space and cook delicious food at the same time! As they say, “two birds, one stone.” These appliances are also great for causing social gatherings and can be built to match and elevate your outdoor decor.

Alternative Outdoor Heating Sources

If messing with live fire is not for you, consider a safer option in an electrically-powered heating source.

Propane Lamp Patio Heaters: Commonly found on restaurant patios or in hotel common- areas, propane patio heaters are a popular and affordable solution for heating your backyard. A few strategically placed heaters could provide heat for your whole backyard social gathering. These perform well on porches, patios, and decks alike. Often equipped with wheels, these lamp-like devices are portable and easily stored in the warmer months.

The most significant benefit of these heat lamps is their immediate effect on the environment. Often activated with a one-button push, these heaters can quickly come up to temperature and directly impact the cold. These devices are not recommended for outdoor spaces that are covered or have low airflow.

Space Heaters: A more personal solution to outdoor heating is to use a personal space heater. More commonly used indoors, these devices are still functional outdoors. While significantly less efficient, a personal space heater placed in front of you can be the perfect companion while you read a book or enjoy a cup of tea on a cold evening.

Luxurious Heating Solutions

While these might not be options for everyone, they are significant considerations for those who have room in their budget to splurge on a luxurious heating source.

Heated Floors: Typically seen in a bathroom, heated floors are gaining popularity in modern home designs. What’s trending now is the implementation and use of heated floors for outdoor patios. Not only are heated floors great for warming up your backyard environment, but they are also great for melting snow and keeping surfaces from becoming icy. If your budget allows, these radiant heating solutions are the pinnacle of luxury and function.

Spas and Hot Tubs: Allow me to paint a romantic picture for you. It’s a cold winter or spring evening, and the stars are shining above as you relax in a perfectly heated hot tub. Of course, there is champagne and caviar next to you as classical music plays, with your butler standing by to refill your drink. Well, the butler and champagne part might be a dream, but the rest could very much be your life if you invest in a spa or hot tub for your backyard. Traditional pools or hot tubs can be a large construction project, but a simple above-ground spa is simple to install. Just make sure to have a warm robe and slippers to wear out of the hot tub, or it will be a cold journey back inside.

Simple Outdoor Heating Solutions

Not all outdoor heating options have to be fire or electricity-based. Sometimes, simple solutions are the best for your needs.

Outdoor Rugs: Give your outdoor space an added comfort underfoot, all while standing up to cold weather. At All American Outdoor Living, we feature incredibly durable, low maintenance, and beautiful, all-weather outdoor rugs that are the perfect addition for any patio, deck, or porch. The simple addition of a carpet can dramatically reduce the cold from the ground and create a

much more comfortable and enjoyable outdoor environment. Rugs are also a great way to improve your exterior decor or express yourself creatively. Avoid rugs that are shag-like or have too many long fibers, or cleaning it will be a nightmare.

Blankets and Throws: Maybe the most straightforward solution on our list is the humble blanket. Blankets and fancy throws can be used to spruce up the look of outdoor furniture and can keep you warm while enjoying your patio all year long.

Pro Tip: Toss your blankets and throws into the dryer for a few minutes before going outside for bonus warmth and comfort.

Redesigning Your Backyard Patio for 2021

Outdoor living trends for the new year

2020 was a heck of a year. It is a year that forced many people to stay at home for lengths previously unheard of in our modern times. It caused many of us to reconsider our interior and exterior spaces at home to maximize comfort and utility in the face of this nationwide lockdown. People across the United States learned how to work from their homes’ comfort and maximize their outdoor space for convenience and entertainment. 2020 saw an incredible surge in home improvements, renovations, and outdoor expansions. 

Both last year and now in 2021, our collective patios, gardens, porches, and yards (both front and back) have come to serve an even greater purpose than they did before. These spaces have functioned as our places of refuge, our at-home gymnasiums, and even our offices where we work from home. 

While it is hard to stay positive in the face of the global pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus, there are some dark clouds with a silver lining. These events have forced us to pursue lifestyles that are more sustainable, practical, and humble. It has taught us the value and importance of our physical and mental health and genuinely balancing work and play from home.

While it is exciting that vaccines are beginning to roll out in 2021, judging by the current state of things, our outdoor spaces will likely continue to be our primary spaces for work, family socialization, and relaxation. This article will discuss some popular new trends for those still looking to improve or expand their outdoor living space.

Creating an Outdoor Space for Year-Round Use

Considering how accustomed we have become to life at home, it is not a stretch to imagine that the majority of people will be continuing to utilize their outdoor area in the coming year. To make the most of your outdoor space, it is essential to weatherproof your furniture and equipment to be usable all year long. You can take several steps or gadgets you can invest in to make your space functional regardless of the time of year or weather conditions.

As you may have heard in the news, medical supplies and protective gear have been in short supply since the beginning of the pandemic. We have also seen shortages of certain foodstuffs and manufactured goods. Possibly the strangest (yet logical) of the many supply shortages that we faced during the fight against COVID-19 was the nationwide outdoor heater shortage. 

As the virus raged on into summer and then into fall, many of us realized our holiday gatherings would be on hiatus if we didn’t figure out how to keep a large open space warm in the dead of winter. These units are becoming available again just as we begin to leave the winter season, but the smart homeowner will invest these preemptively for the colder months ahead.

Expect more significant investment in products that make our patios, balconies, and backyards more livable in extreme temperatures. Heat lamps and fire pits are a great option to snuggle up to. There are so many types of fire pits that you can easily find a style that works well for your outdoors. Several strategically placed outdoor rugs can do a ton of heavy lifting when reducing the chill from the ground. As for the hotter months, we love retractable shade fixtures, such as umbrellas and shade sails, to repel the afternoon sun. Drop-down screens can be installed to enclose patio spaces and help fend off insects. Fans are also a huge help, whether it’s bringing an indoor fan outside for a breeze or installing a ceiling fan outdoors.

Green Thumb Gardeners

Gardening as a hobby has become dramatically more prevalent during this time of lockdown. People took to gardening to pass the time, save money on produce, and brighten their outdoor space with living plants. Gardens are an excellent investment and require less upkeep than you might think. They are fantastic to have year-round and can serve as a great educational tool for parents with children at home. 

Make sure to grow to produce in season, and you will be eating fresh and healthy all year round. Plant beets, broccoli, cabbage, kale, and other hardy veggies as soon as the soil is workable. Once you’re sure the last of winter’s frost is over, your options widen. Lettuce, radishes, carrots, and string beans are all easy to grow outside of winter. By spring, it’s time to turn over those veggie boxes with our favorites: melons, tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash for some of the best outdoor meals you’ve ever made.

Composting and Self-Sustaining Gardens: Composting is a hot topic right now, and the availability of community composting programs awareness and participation has increased. Composting helps reduce landfill waste and helps decrease the amount of trash sent to landfills by 80 percent. Composting creates a “superfood” for your garden and can help your plants sustain themselves. The best part of composting is that it’s free and efficient.  People and communities that compost will rise as sustainability become a greater priority across the globe.

Some scientists believe that a collective increase in at-home gardening across the globe will have small yet noticeable benefits to the environment. Gardens can play a small role within the greater scope of the climate but counted together, every outdoor space in the urban environment can cumulatively make significant strides. That means property owners and renters can make environmentally responsible choices in the process of conceiving and constructing their gardens.

Some of his best tips for cultivating a sustainable garden include setting up a drip irrigation system with a rain sensor to water your plants, avoiding using toxic materials and chemicals to help your plants grow, covering bare soil with green mulch, opting for a diversity of plant species, and going with perennials over annuals when possible. Sustain wildlife and maintain a habitat-friendly garden for birds and pollinators.

Residential Gardens for City Folk: Creating a dynamic outdoor space doesn’t have to be limited by your lack of square footage — it just requires a bit more forethought. Gardening on balconies can do wonders for our mental health, as well as give us a new (and manageable) hobby in 2021. Taking advantage of outside walls is a beautiful way to inject color into space with more plants—or even a nature-inspired mural. Editing is the key in all good design, and allowing one or two areas to be unused can make a small city garden appear larger. Strategize where to place pops of color to make the most of your small but mighty space.

When selecting plants for city growth, try to incorporate native plants into your garden. Native plants are best because they provide benefits for regional birds and insects. They are often more suited to the local soils and temperatures than ornamental plants you can order online.

Party in the Front

While the backyard has been a fabulous place to relax, unwind, find peace of mind, discover a new hobby, we’re now looking to our front yards to be a warm and inviting space to entertain friends, family, and neighbors as we slowly return to normalcy. There’s still a long road ahead before we can welcome all our loved ones inside for dinner parties and happy hours, and the front yard is a beautiful place to set a long table, socially distance, and converse with long lost nearby neighbors.

This season is an excellent chance to upgrade or invest in some nice furniture for the front, such as a porch swing or a table set. A collection of socially distanced chairs and tables make for a great start to a community gathering. Make sure to factor in outdoor lighting so that everyone is well lit into the evening. String lights are a magical element you can implement here.

Seamlessly Transition from Indoors to Outside

If you fancy yourself as a design or gardening enthusiast, then you have likely heard of the term “biophilic design.” This concept is used to increase one’s connectivity to nature through architecture. As most of us have been doing almost everything at home for over a year, creating a natural flow between indoors and out will not only maximize your home’s space but will also give you a much-needed mental break.

To achieve the feeling of a seamless transition from the inside of your home to the outside, arrange the furniture as if the outside and indoor areas were the same room. By treating both spaces as one room, you take the outside in and make the entire space more usable. Another way to create a marriage between indoors and out is to use the same flooring and fabrics in both locations. Outdoor fabrics are phenomenal for a comfortable indoor living; plus, they protect from messy pets and kids.

Preparing Your Backyard Patio for Winter

Winter is here and it is on in full force. As the temperatures drop and the trees shed their leaves, one thing becomes clear: it’s time to prepare for the cold weather. Regardless of the materials your outdoor furniture is made of, be it wood, wicker, metal, or plastic, it’s important that you store your patio set in a dry place where the snow and rain can’t get to it. Leaving your furniture out all winter is a surefire way to ruin it.

Now is the perfect time to either enjoy mother nature at her coldest, or pack up the patio furniture for the coming months and stay inside. Whether you are the type to bundle up and enjoy the winter on your patio or are more inclined to hibernate for winter, we have all the information you need to prepare you patio space for the cold weather ahead. Below is our best advice for making the most out of your patio space in the cold weather, followed by our top tips for safely securing your until next season.

Embrace the Cold Weather

As the saying goes, “some like it hot”. I’m sure Marilyn would agree that this logic would also imply that “some like it cold”. If you are the type of person who loves a hot beverage on a cold winter’s day, then this section of the article is for you. Too many people give up on enjoying their outdoor space in the face of a little cold weather or rain. Here at All American Outdoor Living, we believe you should enjoy your patio all year round. Grab your blankets.

In order to enjoy your patio in the cold weather, you’ll need to consider some weather appropriate additions to your patio space. If you don’t already own a fire pit or a fire table, now would be the time to consider investing in one. A fire pit can warm you and your family on the warmest of winter nights and can add a magical ambiance to your patio.

Imagine spending Christmas Eve roasting chestnuts over a literal open fire. That magical moment is within reach if you install a fire pit. Fire pits are also great all year round. You may be investing in one because of the cold weather, but you’ll still be reaping the benefits of it come summer time. I can smell the s’mores already!

If you don’t have the outdoor space that can accommodate a fire pit, consider an alternative in a fire table. Fire tables are the hot new trend in the backyard furniture game. Small, lightweight, affordable, efficient, and magical are all terms that accurately describe fire tables. You can even get coffee table sized fire tables so you can start your day off with a cup of java next to a warm fire.

Hibernate for the Winter

If you fall into the other camp of people who would prefer to hide away from the cold weather, we can’t blame you. No one truly loves to be cold; some just prefer to bundle up in spite of it. Here is all the information you need to properly prepare your patio for the long winter.

Clean Everything:

Arguably the most important and most often overlooked part of patio maintenance is to simply clean everything. This goes double for packing up your furniture for the winter. It is important to scrape off any mud, dirt, mold, mildew or grime that has built up over time. There’s no sense in covering and storing your furniture if it is dirty, as it will still take wear and tear damage from the dirt over time.

It is also important to inspect any metal furniture you have for rust and oxidation. Addressing these issues before storing them will greatly reduce the odds of the problem getting worse over time. Use steel wool and paint to clean and refinish any areas that might have succumbed to mother nature’s elements.

Patio Covers:

Properly form fitted patio covers are the most important factor for keeping your patio furniture safe this winter. Most manufacturers offer custom fitting covers for their products and are always considered a good investment if they don’t come with the initial purchase. If you can’t get a set of custom covers, invest in a general set of covers that will fit your pieces. Look for covers that offer high quality fabrics made of synthetic fibers.

All American Outdoor Living outdoor patio covers are constructed of top-grade fabrics and fibers, made of solution dyed acrylic and nylon fabrics. Our outdoor patio furniture covers are durable and breathable, water resistant, and will not crack or peel like vinyl. The patio covers are beige in color and have a variety of sizes that fit table and chair covers, individual covers like an outdoor sofa, or love seat; also available are fire pit covers, chaise lounge and umbrella cover.

Our outdoor patio covers will fit aluminum furniture companies such as Tropitone, Mallin, Brown Jordan or Castelle, as well wicker manufacturers like Ebel, NorthCape International, and Lloyd Flanders; along with outdoor wrought iron companies like O.W. Lee and Meadowcraft.

Stack It Up:

One way you can approach you patio shutdown is to think of it as way challenge to save space. In doing such, you’ll find that stacking matching chairs can save space and make it easy to cover with a single large tarp or cover. You can also flip small tables upside down and stack them on each other. Wrap any glass pieces in blankets and/or towels to keep them from getting too cold and shattering when you bring them back out the following season. Also, check the storage area for potential leaks and flaws in the structure that might allow rodents or water to get inside.

Wicker Weatherproofing:

Here is a great tip for owners of wicker furniture. Use a bleach and water solution to brush over the surface of your furniture. In doing so, you will prevent mildew from growing which can occur even with a cover over it. There also solutions you can purchase to repel moisture on the legs of wicker chairs and tables. Apply a water-repellent finish to reinforce furniture and protect it from any moisture that might find its way into the storage space.

Wash Your Fabrics:

If your patio featured furniture with lots of cushions, you’ll want to remove those and take them inside for cleaning and storage. Pay attention to the specific cleaning and care instructions provided with your covers as not all materials can simply be thrown into the washing machine. Use a color safe bleach to kill any mold or mildew that may have grown while outside.

If your patio cushions cannot be taken apart, use a mild detergent and soft brush to clean the exteriors. You can then leave them hanging to air dry, which should happen rather quickly in the cold weather.

Hide Your Plastic:

If you have any furniture or decor that is made of plastic, consider moving it inside for the winter. Plastic furniture is extremely resistant to the rain and snow, but the cold it becomes, the more brittle it is. Plastic furniture can be covered, but doing so will not guarantee that the structural integrity of the piece will stay intact. Move your furniture somewhere warm and dry or you might accidentally shatter the furniture into pieces the next time you go to use it. Also, fix any cracks you find in plastic furniture however minor or the cracks will likely spread until they’re too large to repair.

Wax Your Aluminum:

It might sound odd, but good old fashioned car wax is the perfect defense for your aluminum furniture against the cold harsh weather. Wash down any aluminum furniture you have and completely dry before apply a layer of automotive wax. This will help keep water off the aluminum and protect the paint from inclement weather.

If you experience any paint chippings, you can also use car touch up paint to fix any unsightly blemishes on your furniture. Who knew automotive products would be so handy for protecting your patio!

Seal Your Wood:

If you have any furniture that is made out of wood, you’ll want to consider using a sealant to protect it from moisture and rain. Sealing the wood will prevent the wood from expanding and becoming misshapen. If you have teak furniture specifically, this might be less of an issue for you. Teak is naturally full of resin and oils which prevent winter from permeating the surface. Considering teak is the most popular wood in outdoor furniture, this may apply to you. Either way, double check your wooden furniture and see if adding a coat of sealant might just extend the life of your patio furniture.

Stop in one of our All American Outdoor Livingv locations or shop online to find the best outdoor products to protect your outdoor living room!

More Millennials are Building Families and Buying Homes in 2021

It seems they’ve finally given up the daily avocado toast and expensive lattes. 

The millennial generation is the largest American generation, with over 80 million people spread across the United States. While this group often takes flak from the Boomer generation for moving at a different pace than they did, current statistics show that this trend is shifting. The eldest of the millennial horde are finally reaching a place in age and financial security to consider buying a home. For most millennials under 40, this is or will be their first time purchasing a home.

The generation before millennials could purchase a home with a high school diploma and minimum wage job. On the other hand, most millennials see homeownership as a pipedream, despite being significantly more educated than their predecessors. As it now stands, millennials currently out-earn any other generation. This higher education and more significant wealth accumulation channel this generation’s spending power into investing in homes and making them comfortable, including expanding patio backyards.

This surge in home purchases, combined with a global pandemic that forces people to spend more time at home than ever, has caused a massive increase in demand for home decor and furnishings for inside and outdoors. This article will explore what home decor trends are most popular amongst the millennial homebuying crowd in 2021.

The Industry is Growing with the Demand

Demand for outdoor furniture in the United States, such as grills and accessories, is expected to drive the industry to $9.1 billion by 2019. Now, more than ever, consumers can do online research to ensure they’re buying the best outdoor furniture. Additionally, people are spending more disposable income to create these outdoor living spaces.

Reports show millennials are the fastest-growing segment; this growth is encouraged because this age group is beginning to build families and homes. In 2014, millennials accounted for 37% of outdoor furniture sales. They are redefining how they relate to the space around them, both indoors and outdoors.

Millennial Minimalism – Less is More

This generation has a fond affinity for minimalist designs and aesthetics. They are asking for their homes to be comfortable, visual, and functional. Consumers aim for the most decorative bang in their minimalist-decorated dwellings, looking for statement pieces that can virtually stand on their own. Maybe Marie Kondo is to blame for encouraging us to transform our lives by tidying up our spaces. 

Perhaps we grew up watching futuristic cartoons that made technology and minimalism seem very appealing and progressive. Whoever is to blame, we know that minimalist designs are popular amongst millennials and that home decor purchases match this trend. With new ideas about how people relate to their space and emphasizing the room’s architectural elements, minimalist decor and furniture have seen a surge in popularity in the United States and worldwide. 

Merchants who supply modern minimalist designs show a higher sell-through rate than merchants who carry more traditional or antique style decor. The benefit is that most modern minimalist decor is relatively inexpensive and easy to produce en masse. These stylistic preferences hold for indoor spaces as well as outdoor patios and backyards. Sleek, functional, and minimally designed furniture and appliances are all the rage in outdoor home decor.

Multi-functional Furniture and Appliances

Not only is the millennial generation a fan of the minimalist mentality, but they are also all about practicality in their products. Millennials are more likely to invest in products that serve more than one purpose; the classic “bang for you buck” mentality. This logic seems doubly right for outdoor furniture and decor, which resulted from people stuck at home because of the pandemic and have exploded in sales over the last year.

When looking for outdoor furniture and appliances that serve several purposes, the bar for what constitutes “multi-functional” is relatively low. This tech-savvy generation is not looking for a refrigerator that can tweet and play Skyrim. They are looking for something more along the lines of a barbecue that is also a smoker, or a fire table, which is a fancy way of saying a “coffee table with a built-in fireplace.” Fire pits are also a great multi-functional accessory, as they provide a place to gather, a source for heat, the perfect setting for a ghost story, and the best way to cook a s’more. 

Environmentally Friendly Furniture

Millennials as a group are more conscious of the planet and the current climate crisis. Millennial consumers factor their carbon footprint into the decision-making process when buying outdoor furniture, and they love a product marketed as being friendly to the environment. They consider how the piece is made and what will become of the work once discarded. According to a recent Furniture Today survey, 70% of people said they would be willing to spend more on outdoor furniture if environmentally friendly materials and processes the manufacturer uses.

When looking for your next environmentally friendly piece of outdoor furniture, focus on the materials and processes used in manufacturing. Responsibly sourced woods and metals are what you are looking for. Woods such as bamboo, oak, mahogany, maple, and pine are l incredibly sustainable and affordable. Avoid purchasing wood furniture made of teak, wenge, Merbau, or ebony, as these are all rare, expensive, and endangered. Bonus points if you can find a piece made of reclaimed or recycled wood materials from lumber yards and salvage. Metal furniture made from steel or aluminum is ideal for its weather-resistance and because it is affordable and recyclable. You can also find some companies that offer outdoor decor and accessories made from recycled fabrics. 

Grilling Gadgets, Gear, and Gizmos

One trend that seems to transcend generations is the love of the grill and grilling products. However, with millennials, the passion for good food and fine dining at home is taken to a whole other level. This generation of people who grew up watching cooking competition shows like significant sporting events. With chefs becoming celebrities, affordable kitchen gadgets, and the explosion of Instagram food pictures, it’s no wonder we have a generation of talented home chefs and bakers. 

Buying trends over the last few years indicate an increase in popularity in the grill and barbecue space and for smokers, pizza ovens or stones, fire pits, flat-top grills, re-circulators (for sous-vide), and Mongolian BBQ grills. All of these can be installed in your backyard or outdoor kitchen to improve your outdoor cooking game. That said, not all millennials are food-fanatics. A large part of the generation will be more than satisfied with a more straightforward all-in-one barbecue grill and all that it can do. You get bonus points for getting a mobile unit and has wheels so you can transport it as you see fit. 

Bringing the Indoors Outside

Arguably the most popular new trend in outdoor decor is the concept of bringing the full feel of an indoor room to your outdoor space. This aim can be accomplished by assembling a collection of outdoor furniture such as chairs and couches alongside durable outdoor rugs, tables, and comfortable throw pillows and blankets. Ceramic lamps are often used for their durability to bring light to an outdoor room so that you and your family can enjoy the outside into the night.

A variation of this popular trend from 2020 that is carrying into 2021 is the outdoor kitchen. Millennials are building kitchens outdoors to really up their outdoor cooking game. These outdoor kitchens can be simple builds that feature a grill and a stove, while others can be as loaded or more so than the indoor kitchen. Refrigerators, beer taps, pizza ovens, smokers, microwaves, dishwashing machines, and more can be installed in an outdoor kitchen. Don’t forget to install and fully stock the bar, and you are set for any party or gathering.

No outdoor kitchen, bar, or space is complete without a television. Televisions specifically built for outdoor exposure are available for the discerning customer. The millennial generation is famous for binge-watching television shows, and I don’t think being outdoors will stop that. Speakers, audio systems, smart speakers, and other gadgets can be installed on your patio for the ultimate in outdoor comfort.

People want the green look, feel, and texture of plants without the hassle and maintenance worries. Artificial plants give it to them. The Millennials are massive travelers and don’t want to worry about watering them or having space without great lighting. Artificial plants always look perfect and have that feel of foliage.

The Season of Change

Spring is the time of year where the most considerable portion of customers chooses to refresh their living spaces. Maybe it’s the “spring-cleaning” bug that does it, but nearly one-fourth of people do upgrades during this time of year. Millennials are no exception. If you are a patio furniture retailer trying to capitalize on this generation and its trends, you still have some time to get up to speed with your product offerings.