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It’s a common trend today to expand our living spaces into the outdoors.  Many people are taking advantage of their decks, patios, and porches to do just that.  Patio furniture, tables, lighting, and awnings are available for purchase at stores everywhere, not to mention the internet.  Once you have purchased some or all of these, and put them outside, you will want to spend lots of time out there.

Not only can you have an outdoor living room, but now you can decorate it too.  Many manufacturers are making chair covers and patio furniture covers that will enable you to customize your outdoor space.  Your deck or patio doesn’t need to look like everyone else’s.  You are able to bring the color palette from your living room or kitchen right outside.  Or you can do something completely different in a tropical or summery theme.

The fabrics designed for outdoor use are not your typical fabrics.  You need to take care in making your choices.  The usual blend of fabrics that are used on indoor furniture will not wear well outside.  They will fade and fall apart under the pressure of constant sun and weather.  A fabric made of 100% acrylic is a very good choice for this usage.  Sunbrella manufactures a whole line of fabrics like this in every possible design scheme and color, and they are just one of many companies to get in on this new niche.

Once you find the fabric you like, you will want to have some cushions or coverings made.  Any local upholstery store will be able to help you with this task.  You will simply need to bring measurements of your chairs or lounges and they will be able to custom fit pillows and cushions for you.  They will also be able to tell you how much of any given fabric you will need to order.  Keep in mind that larger prints will require more fabric then smaller prints because of matching issues.  In some upholstery shops, they may even be able to order the fabric for you.  So, have fun and design away, let your outdoor space be a great reflection of you.

Patio furniture covers not only protect the chairs, loungers, benches and tables on the deck, they can look good at the same time. While products of the past were often larger or smaller than the items they were placed on, with a limited number of sizes available, today’s manufacturers make them for nearly any kind of piece you might use on the deck.

The products available for items used on the deck can often provide a very customized or fitted look. Many consist of elastic and draw ties, which help keep water away from the items, when not in use. They will help protect the items from all types of weather and debris, to help keep chairs, tables and other seating looking new and free from dirt. These items work well in the fall to keep falling leaves from contributing to mold and mildew. This is important for chairs and loungers with fabric seat cushions and backs. In addition, there are zippered cases that allow the cushions to be stored by themselves.

Products today are made of synthetic polyester fabric, though they look like more expensive and heavier weight canvas. Polyester protects better than canvas and repels water much better. It may also be a viable option for keeping the pieces on the deck in the winter, if no garage or basement space is available for storage. It will certainly help prevent surface rust and keep items looking good until warmer weather arrives again.

These items are commonly found in two typical colors. Green is a common color choice that is found in many stores. However, tan or beige in a neutral earth tone is also commonly available for most pieces, whether for chairs, tables or outdoor appliances, like grills. They provide a neutral, yet tasteful look that does not detract from the appearance of the home or deck.

Products can be purchased in home improvement centers, lawn and garden centers, retail stores and from online stores. Most chair covers can be purchased for around $25 each, with a price of around $40 at the high end. Prices for protectors used on loungers, tables and other deck items cost about the same. There are products that can be used for a set of several chairs and a table, to keep items arranged neatly, until the next time you want to use them. Regardless of where you live or the type of items used on your deck, you can find products to protect them adequately.