The Perfect Patio Set Based on Your Backyard Tiling

Posted on November 9, 2015 by AZ Patio

With such a wide array of patio sets and furniture pieces available today, it makes sense to purchase a set that complements your patio hardscape. Whether you’ve installed a brick patio, concrete, or stone pavers, you’ll discover that some types of furniture pair better with certain tiling and paving materials. The following tips can help you choose patio furniture that will give your backyard that wow factor you’re looking for.

Brick

A brick patio is a classic design that lends itself well to traditional patio sets. A wrought iron set designed in black, for instance, makes a striking contrast with the brickwork. On the other hand, teak furniture, which has been traditionally used in patio furniture because of its durability and ability to stand up to the elements, is another popular option if you have a brick patio. With its stately air, brick doesn’t pair as well with plastic but it does go well with metal patio furniture.

Concrete

Concrete is a popular patio paver that can be designed in so many different ways. Concrete can mimic stone or feature unique designs. Some homeowners score it or give it an acid wash to create an attractive effect. When you have a concrete patio, you can reasonably add any type of furniture you like from wicker lounge sets to wrought iron tables and accessories. In this case, you might consider pairing a particular color with your patio to provide some interesting contrast. If you patio is gray or stone-colored, consider a teak set with bright red cushions or some other attention-getting shade that pairs well with the gray from darker blues or greens to other clean, modern solid colors like black or white.

Flagstone

A flagstone patio offers lots of old-world charm that pairs well with wood as well as wrought iron furniture. Flagstone is a unique type of paver because it can be installed in an informal, cottage-style setting as well as more formal and traditional settings. With so many patio sets and furniture items available for outdoor settings today, you’ll be able to complement the decorative style of your patio with no trouble.

Clay Tiles

If you are using clay or native clay paving, you might want to choose furnishings that feature Southwestern style. Wood pairs well with clay as does wicker and even resin pieces. When you can’t decide about what type of furniture to choose for your patio, consider the set’s maintenance needs to help you decide.

Mixed Materials

More and more homeowners are opting to create a signature style for their patio using mixed materials and pavers. You can achieve a balanced and eye-catching design for this type of setting when you mix pieces. For instance, you can add mixed metals or mixed wood pieces. You might feature a wicker chaise lounge in one area complemented by a great teak dining set.

Be sure to take a photograph of your patio base before you go shopping for new patio furniture and take accurate measurements. That way, you can more easily decide which pieces might be right for your home and the space you’re working with. Feel free to ask our experts at All American Fine Outdoor Furnishings any questions you have about a patio set’s care needs before you make your selection, and browse thru our myriad of patio sets and accessories that will really make your back patio tiling pop.

Designing Your Patio Sets for the Change of Seasons

Posted on October 26, 2015 by AZ Patio

Arizona is fortunate enough to enjoy a patio-friendly climate year round, but that shouldn’t prevent Arizonans from celebrating the seasons. When you redecorate your patio setting for each season, you can make your backyard more enjoyable from month to month even though some seasonal changes may only be slight. With these color schemes and decorative tips, you can make the most of the holidays and seasons each year.

Spring

Spring is a glorious time in the Valley and a wonderful time to bring out pastels like pale blue, light green, and yellow. When changing your patio set’s cushions, you can choose colors that have traditionally been associated with spring. If you’re a fan of pink, pale pink is a great color choice that is sure to go well with teak or wrought iron furnishings alike. To complement your spring patio décor, be sure to add a vase filled with traditional spring plants like tulips, daffodils, and lilies on your patio table when you are entertaining company.

Summer

Phoenix summers are scorchers, so when decorating your patio, you might want to consider adding an awning in a bright summer shade to your patio area. When swapping your patio cushions, white is a smart choice if you want to deflect the sun (not that it will help a whole lot), but you might also consider a shade like Mediterranean blue to create your backyard oasis. Other bright colors like melon, yellow, and hot pink are also a few summery choices to consider. By adding shade and installing even a simple table-top fountain, you can make your summer patio more enjoyable.

Fall

Fall is a great time to bring in colors like orange, brown, tan, and burgundy to your patio setting. From solid colors to patterns, you’ll find a marvelous array of fall patio cushions to choose from. Fall weather is comfortable, so you and your guests might find yourself spending more time outdoors. Consider deep-seating patio furniture to create more of an outdoor room for your space. As it gets closer to Halloween, you might want to add some fun holiday decorations to your backyard space as well.

Winter

The winter patio is filled with shades of pine green, red, silver, and gold. These jewel tones add to the celebratory air of the holiday season. After changing your patio cushions for wintry ones, you can set out baskets or even bright silver buckets filled with springs of evergreen or pine cones. In fact, you might even opt for patio cushions that feature an evergreen pattern or design throughout the fabric.

Winter patio furniture Phoenix AZ

You can ramp up the enjoyment of your patio when you redecorate for the seasons just as you would indoors. These color changes will make a big difference in the visual appeal of your setting. Be sure to head out to shop for some seasonal patio cushions soon so you can give your setting a fun patio makeover!

Luxurious Fire Pit Designs That Will Keep Your Guests Entertained

Posted on October 21, 2015 by AZ Patio

Fire pits make a wonderful addition to any outdoor space and are a great place to entertain guests during the colder months. Regardless of the size of your garden, a fire pit is a great way to add a touch of drama to your outdoor living area. There are many different styles of fire pit from large, imposing structures to smaller, cozier designs that are ideal for balconies and patios. Fire pits are available in a range of different materials and fuels to provide an economical heating solution for outdoors that will transform your garden into a stylish retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Aluminum

aluminum fire pit AZ Aluminum is a fantastic material for outdoor furniture that is completely resistant to rust, discoloration and flaking. Those that live in extreme climates should opt for aluminum as it can withstand freezing winters as well as blisteringly hot summers. Fire pits made from aluminum come in a variety of different designs from contemporary styles in simple square surrounds to more intricate designs that resemble wrought iron. Aluminum is also relatively lightweight compared to marble or steel, so it is a good choice for those planning to move their fire pit inside when it is not in use.

Granite

Granite has been used for thousands of years as a building material for its availability and attractive finish. This material is available in a variety of different colors and is usually polished to a glossy shine. Granite fire pits are ideal for those that prefer natural materials for their outdoor furniture and look fantastic in sprawling landscaped gardens as well as compact patios. Granite is a high quality material that lends a touch of elegance and style to your outdoor living area.

Marble

marble fire pit AZ Fire pits have become one of the fastest growing trends in outdoor furniture. Marble fire pits add a touch of luxury to your outdoor space and are a great way to make a big impression on your guests. Fire pits crafted from marble can be extremely heavy depending on the thickness of the countertop, so always take care if you plan to place one on a balcony or wooden decking.

Slate

Slate is a versatile natural material that is used in many types of outdoor furniture. Slate fire pits are one of the more trendy options with many young homeowners choosing this option. Slate fireplaces look fantastic on stone patios and wooden decking.

Fire table

A fire table is a great space saving option for smaller gardens. The fire pit is built into a surrounding table making an eye-catching center piece that will delight your guests. Tables made from natural stone are an ideal choice for fire tables and look fantastic when paired with chairs made from other natural materials such as wood or bamboo.

fire pits Scottsdale AZ

It is important to take great care when using a fire pit, and ensure that it is located well away from surrounding fences, trees and any other garden furniture. Be sure to perform regular maintenance on your fire pit including cleaning and checking all hoses and connections to prolong its life and avoid accident or injury during use. If you take the steps to properly maintain your fire pit after each use, you’ll be able to enjoy time spent around the fire with friends and loved ones for years to come. So come to All American Fine Outdoor Furnishings and choose from our vast selection of fire pit designs today!

A Complete Comparison: Wicker vs Aluminum Patio Furniture Sets

Posted on October 13, 2015 by AZ Patio

Patio furniture comes in a variety of different materials, but wicker and cast aluminum are perhaps the most popular choices when it comes to outdoor seating. Both materials offer a whole host of advantages over more traditional choices such as wood or iron, so choosing between the two can be a difficult decision. As well as being able to withstand the elements, patio furniture needs to be attractive, comfortable and easy to maneuver. Wicker and aluminum are both available in a wide range of stylish designs, and the following guide looks at the advantages of each option.

Wicker Furniture

wicker outdoor patio furniture AZ Wicker furniture is a popular choice for outside seating areas due to its versatility and relatively low cost. The furniture is made from thin strips of natural or synthetic material that are woven together around a wooden or metal base. Wicker furniture is available in rustic, traditional designs as well as modern contemporary styles. One of the biggest advantages of wicker furniture is its portability as even large couches can be easily picked up and moved by two people. If you are planning to store your furniture inside and only bring it out during the summer months, then wicker is an ideal choice. One of the downsides of wicker furniture is that sets made from natural materials such as bamboo or cane can be susceptible to dampening and rot. Wicker sets made from synthetic materials such as resin are more durable and will not crack or unravel after prolonged sun exposure. Those that live in areas with extreme weather should avoid wicker furniture as smaller items such as single chairs or end tables can easily be blown away by very strong winds.

Aluminum Furniture

aluminum patio furniture sets AZ If you are looking for a patio set that will last as long as you, then aluminum is the safest bet. There are a few types of aluminum furniture that have differing price tags. Patio sets made from aluminum tubes are the cheapest option but are not as durable as solid aluminum. Cast aluminum is created by pouring liquid aluminum into casts and then soldering the pieces together. This type of aluminum is the most popular option but expect to pay a little more for a full patio set. Aluminum furniture is completely resistant to rust and is virtually unbreakable. Unlike other types of metal furniture, it is also relatively lightweight. Aluminum furniture is also available in a wide range of styles including wrought aluminum designs that resemble traditional wrought iron furniture. Aluminum needs very little maintenance and can be cleaned with soap and water or a pressure hose.

Both wicker and aluminum offer wonderful advantages to homeowners, and the ultimate decision over which one to purchase should depend on the local climate. Although wicker may be more attractive, it simply cannot stand up to harsh weather conditions. Aluminum patio furniture will last a lifetime and does not need to be protected from rain, wind or direct sunlight. Whatever you choose, All American Fine Outdoor Furnishings has the variety of quality wicker and aluminum collections to choose from. All our patio sets are made with quality materials and built to last. So call us today at 877-930-7070 or visit our stores in Arizona and see what we have to offer.

Protecting Your Patio Sets in the Valley of the Sun

Posted on August 31, 2015 by AZ Patio

If you live in the Phoenix or Scottsdale area, you already know how hot the summers can be and how the harsh rays of the sun can beat down on your patio. If you want to enjoy your patio furniture for many years to come, you need to take special precautions to keep it looking like new.

The good news is most quality patio furniture, including the patio cushions you sit on, have already been chemically treated to resist fading and keep stains from setting in. Even so, the harsh Arizona sun can sometimes overcome that protection. That is why it is important to take proactive steps to protect the furniture frames, the cushions and everything else that makes your patio such a special place to be.

Here are some tips to keep your patio furniture looking like new for many years to come.

Refinish your wooden patio furniture with a stain designed to resist the harsh rays of the sun. Choosing a UV-resistant stain can keep the vibrant colors on your patio furniture from fading and keep the wood in top shape as well.
Use covers to protect your patio furniture when not in use. Cushion covers can keep your upholstery from fading, while chair and lounge covers can protect the wood from sudden summer thunderstorms.
Consider storing your patio furniture indoors if you do not plan on using it for a while. While many residents of Phoenix and Scottsdale use their patios year round, others find the hottest months of winter too much to take. If you plan to give your patio a break this summer, storing it in a garden shed is a great way to protect it from the harsh rays of the sun.
Clean your furniture regularly. Allowing dirt to set in can make sun damage worse. Clean the upholstery on your patio furniture regularly using a stiff bristle brush to keep dust and dirt away. Clean up stains promptly using a combination of cold water and a mild cleaning solution.
Do not power wash your patio furniture or use harsh cleansers. Harsh cleansers can scratch the surface of the wood and leave tiny cracks in the upholstery. Power washers can damage the surface of both the frame and the upholstery.
Watch for mold and treat it promptly. Mold is a more serious problem in more humid parts of the country, but that does not mean your Phoenix or Scottsdale patio furniture is immune. Watch out for signs of mold – and treat it immediately.

For residents of Phoenix, Scottsdale and other warm climates, the patio is often the most active part of the home. If you love your patio, you will want to take steps to keep your furniture looking like new. The tips listed above can help you do just that and keep your outdoor furniture looking its best for many years to come.

Our outdoor patio furnishings are built to withstand the harshest elements the weather can bring and are made to last without compromising style and luxury. Shop at All American Fine Outdoor Furnishings for the highest quality in patio sets and accessories and lounge luxuriously in your back patio for any occasion without worry on wear or long-term damage. Call us at (877) 930-7070 or visit a store near you today!

Best Sets for the Pool Area

Posted on August 27, 2015 by AZ Patio

Patios and pools just go together so well when it comes to entertaining in the backyard. Having a pool is a sure way to keep the family together by keeping the kids entertained and splashing around while the adults can lounge nearby supervising and mingling amongst themselves. When everyone is tired of swimming and ready to relax, having a patio set nearby makes it easy to do just that without the worry of things getting wet that shouldn’t.

Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue for the entire neighborhood or just keeping the kids entertained at home, you want both your patio furniture and your pool to look as good as possible. You spend a lot of time making sure the pool chemistry is just right, and just as much time cleaning and maintaining the furniture on your patio.

You can make your life easier by choosing the right kinds of patio furniture for your pool area. The presence of all that water and all those harsh chemicals can harm certain kinds of furniture and shorten its lifespan. For instance, if your patio furniture is made of a soft wood like pine, the water from the pool could seep into the surface and weaken it over time. You can protect the wood by choosing a good stain or quality paint, but if you are buying new furniture you might want to choose a harder wood instead.

Some pool owners prefer to avoid wooden patio furniture altogether in favor of the durability and easy cleaning of metal. While wood, especially soft wood, can deteriorate under the constant assault of pool water and the chemicals they’re treated with. Meanwhile, metal chairs and patio tables should do better. You may have to apply a good rust protector to keep the metal looking like new, and you may need to repaint the set every couple of years. All in all though, that’s a small demand in maintenance and costs in comparison to having to buy new sets every so often due to significant deterioration.

Protecting the wooden frames of your patio chairs, tables and chaise lounges is important, but it is just as important to protect the upholstery that keeps you comfortable after a swim or long day spent playing with the kids. While upholstered patio furniture is pre-treated to resist stains and fading in the sun, that protection may not be enough to protect it long term.

Investing in a quality cover for your patio cushions is important, as is choosing a material that is designed to stand up to hard use. Look for quality construction, including tight seams, when shopping for patio furniture. The better the construction, the longer the furniture should last.

Lastly, durability is important when choosing patio furniture for your pool area, but comfort is just as vital. You will want a style that will be comfortable and not too hot, so pay attention to color as well as materials. Light colors will absorb less heat, which could make you more comfortable after your swim. Light colored patio furniture is also less likely to fade in the hot rays of the sun – another important benefit if you want your pool area to look good for years to come.

No matter what kind of patio set you’re looking to complement your pool area, remember that our inventory at All American Fine Outdoor Furnishings is stocked with sets that are made for these exact conditions. You won’t have to sacrifice modern designs and luxurious style for enhanced durability and long-lasting results. Visit a location and browse our patio set selections today or call us at (877) 930-7070 for questions.

Easy Ways to Maintain Your Fire Pit

Posted on January 15, 2015 by AZ Patio

If you want to expand your outdoor living space and make it comfortable when the weather turns cold, adding a fire pit to the back yard is a great way to do just that. There is nothing like sitting around a fire pit telling ghost stories and roasting marshmallows to bring the family together. Once it is in place, the fire pit will quickly become the focal point of your outdoor living space. When properly installed and well maintained, the fire pit will be both enjoyable and safe to use. Proper maintenance is the key to continued safety, so take the time to learn the proper techniques. Below are some easy ways to keep your fire pit in great shape.

Perhaps the most important maintenance tip is to make sure the fire is out before you leave the pit. Do not leave the area until the fire has burned out completely and the ashes are cool. Hot embers can still spark a fire, so always put safety first. Once the fire is out and the ashes have cooled sufficiently, you can clean the fire pit and get it ready for the next use. Cleaning the fire pit thoroughly after each use is the best way to keep it looking and running like new. It is recommend to wait a day after use, before cleaning your fire pit. It is very important you wait until the fire pit is completely cooled before cleaning.

Use an angled broom to seep the interior of the fire pit. Sweep in the same direction instead of moving the broom back and forth – this will keep the ash from being moved around and make cleanup easier. Use a dust pan to remove the accumulated ash and dispose of it properly. Again, make sure the ash is completely cooled off before disposing of it.

Once the interior of the fire pit has been swept and the ash safely removed, you may also take a damp rag and wipe out any access ash that is remaining in the bowl. You want to eliminate any soot build up or any food debris; these can clog burners and cause stains to your bowl. Check the perimeter of the fire pit carefully and make sure there is no debris that could spark and catch fire. Remove branches, leaves and other potentially flammable materials until you have a clear space at least 10 feet in diameter. Make sure to re-check the perimeter before using the fire pit again.

If your fire pit is made of decorative concrete pavers, you will need to seal them to prevent premature wear and tear. Apply a thin coat of stone or concrete sealant to the fire pit, making sure to use a product designed to withstand high heat. You may need to reseal the pavers from time to time – just check for wear each time you use the fire pit and reapply the sealant as needed.

For further protection from the outside elements, a patio grade cover is durable, breathable and water resistant. Maintaining the fire pit the right way can extend its lifetime and make it safer to use.

Luxurious Patio Accessories That Elevate Outdoor Entertaining

Posted on January 1, 2015 by AZ Patio

For people who love to entertain, the patio and its surrounding outdoor setting can make for the ideal backdrop when the weather permits. With some careful planning, homeowners can design a patio and outfit it with furnishings and accessories that complement the setting’s elegance and functionality. When creating and furnishing your luxury patio, be sure to keep the following ideas in mind.

High-Functioning Outdoor Kitchen

If you entertain outdoors on a regular basis, you might think about installing an outdoor kitchen on a portion of your patio. To integrate your kitchen into the patio space, you might consider custom built-ins that can accommodate your cooking appliances (i.e. grill) and counter space for food preparation. The style of your patio can inform the type of design you choose for the space whether you opt for a modern style, traditional, or something more particular like a hacienda or Tuscan villa style. Naturally, you’ll want to choose accessories such like dishes, cushion fabric, and potted plants that enhance your chosen style.

Dining Area

Consider the type of entertaining you do before you outfit your dining space with furnishings. If you generally invite extended family to your home, you might want to opt for a grand outdoor table, one that’s large enough to seat the adults you typically invite to your home. If you, on the other hand, tend to host large events, you might opt for a series of café or bistro sets that encourage guests to mingle and even move from table to table. You can choose elegant table settings for this area of your patio along with table centerpieces like candles, vases, and even oil lamps.

Outdoor Bar

An outdoor bar is ideal for homes that do a lot of entertaining. It’s often easiest to site the bar near the home so that running water and electricity is less difficult. From small yet swanky to large and elaborate, outdoors bars run the gamut in terms of style and size. You can select one that complements your outdoor kitchen, but also provides a focal point for your outdoor entertainments. When it comes to bar accessories, you can opt for elegant stemware and glassware that match your decorative style.

Patio Furniture

From teak to wrought iron, patio furniture is available in a myriad of styles. You might opt for wicker, wood, or metal in a style that suits your decorative plan. You can create an outdoor family room with outdoor chaise lounges, chairs, and couches that are set out in a fashion that’s conducive to conversation. While the family room style might be fine for smaller gatherings, you may need more seating for larger entertainments. Stools, benches, and functional seating can be made more comfortable with outdoor cushions that can be easily stored when they’re not needed.

Other Considerations

When designing and decorating your patio, don’t forget to think about how to shade your guests during daylight events. You might want to include a pergola or gazebo in your plans. For night-time entertaining, you’ll need to infuse light onto your patio so your guests will be safe walking about. You can accessorize the space with gorgeous outdoor lighting fixtures that are both durable and functional. Finally, consider adding an elegant focal point to your setting like a fountain or outdoor fireplace.

Once you create your ideal outdoor setting, you’ll love entertaining outdoors where your guests can enjoy the outdoor climate in a beautiful setting. Keep these considerations in mind as you plan your patio and shop for outdoor furnishings.

3 Benefits of Wrought Iron Patio Furniture

Posted on May 2, 2014 by Todd Singer

When selecting patio furniture, you want to make sure that you purchase something that will be reliable. There are several different types of patio furniture that you can buy for your backyard. One of the best options to go with is wrought iron patio furniture. Here are a few reasons as to why this type of patio furniture is such a great option for your patio!

Easy to Clean

One of the biggest scares for any patio furniture owner is whether or not their furniture will rust. Unfortunately, wrought iron patio furniture is one of those pieces of equipment that will slowly rust over time. However, unlike aluminum and some other metals, wrought iron does not rust nearly as much. Additionally, wrought iron is one of the easiest materials to clean. If the furniture does begin to rust, or simply just gets dirty over time, you will be able to clean it very easily with a little bit of soap and water. Other materials often require a little bit more of an effort to make clean.

Durability

One of the biggest benefits of wrought iron patio furniture is that it is extremely durable. As we mentioned above, although this type of furniture does rust, it does not rust as much as other materials. This is one of the factors that allows the furniture to last for a very long time. Another aspect that contributes to this durability is the heaviness of the iron. Because of this strength, it is very difficult to damage the furniture. Both of these factors also help out with the weather resistance. The lack of rapid rust, as well as the fact that the furniture is not going to be pushed around by the weather, will give the furniture a longer life span.

Comfortable

Although wrought iron patio furniture is very heavy, sturdy, and strong, that does not mean that it is not uncomfortable. This type of furniture can easily be made comfortable with quality cushions. Another thing that makes this type of furniture comfortable is the fact that wrought iron is highly malleable. What this means is that the iron can be bent, twisted, and maneuvered in a way during production that will make the furniture not only visually attractive, but also gives the producers of the furniture a better chance at making the furniture comfortable to sit in.

The next time that you are purchasing outdoor patio furniture, it is necessary to evaluate all of the types of materials that are used to make each of the specific furniture castings. These three benefits are great reasons to go with wrought iron patio furniture when making this decision. Are there any other benefits of wrought iron furniture that you can think of? We would love to hear them! Let us know in the comments section below or via our Facebook or Twitter pages.

Wicker Patio Furniture: 2 Reasons it is Great for Summer

Posted on April 25, 2014 by Todd Singer

There is no better season of the year then summer to take advantage of the sun! However, this means that it is important to customize your patio with furniture that it not only looks good, but is comfortable and reliable as well. Look no further than wicker patio furniture. Here are two of the best reasons why wicker patio furniture is the best type of furniture that you can have on your patio during those hot summer months.

Durable

As we mentioned above, there is no other time of the year when your patio furniture is going to get more traffic than during the summer. Whether you are relaxing outside by the pool, or are simply having guests over to enjoy a warm summer night outside, this time of year there will always be more people frequenting your patio.

It is essential to provide the best possible option of furniture in terms of durability. Wicker patio furniture can provide that durable toughness that your furniture will need, all the while looking fashionable. You may be thinking, “Yes, wicker furniture definitely looks stylish, but how is it durable?” Fortunately, durability is one of the biggest strengths of wicker furniture. One of the best ways that wicker is durable is that it is usually woven over sturdy frames such as the aluminum. Other than that, a main source of wicker’s durability comes from its resistance to all sorts of weathering, but that is a whole other benefit on it’s own.

Weather Resistant

Continuing with what we mentioned above, wicker patio furniture derives an abundance of its durability and reliability from the strength of its weather resistance. In fact, being weather resistant is one of the main reasons why people purchase wicker furniture over other available patio options. However, during the summer months there is really one main weathering concern that has to be addressed, and that is the sun and heat coming from the sun. Resin wicker can help to reduce the concern that comes from the sun. This type of wicker contains polyethylene fibers that are resistant to the sun’s harsh UV rays. This will help protect against the fading and weakening of material that comes from sunrays.

Wicker patio furniture is more than just a stylish type of patio furniture. It is one of the most durable forms of patio furniture and is specifically catered to handle the extreme weather of the summer months.

Have you had any experience with wicker furniture on your patio during the summer? We would love to know how it dealt with those months on your patio! Let us know your stories via Facebook, Twitter, or in the comments below!

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