When it comes to patio furnishing, it often refers to certain types of furniture specifically designed for outdoor use. Patio furniture [http://www.patioshoppers.com] is usually made using weather resisting materials and commonly, teak is used for outdoor furnishing. Teak is used is because it naturally contains silica which makes it resistant to fungal decay, many of the effects of water (such as rot, swelling and warping) as well as chemicals. It is also resistant to fire, acid and alkalis.

Originated from the deep monsoon forest of the South East Asia, the teak tree has very tall trunk and deciduous leaf. Having oiginated from this rain prone area, teak is natural water resistant. It is also insect resistant. Being water resistant, teak is not prone to water damage or splits. This is especially true for woods that come from older forests. Teak also has natural oils that the wood requires no varnishing at all. Apart from that, teak is hardly effected by foreign element such as suntan lotion, body oil or pool water. Sea water will also not effect teak.

The color of teak wood is natural honey brown and this makes stain and pain unnecessary. The wood will turn beautiful grey as it ages but you can revert back to the natural color simply by sanding the wood lightly. Grade "A" teak furniture [http://www.patioshoppers.com/catalog/Teak_Patio_Furniture-37-1.html] is the best of its kind and it is so because it does not have knots or defects. Today, many more materials are used to make outdoor furniture. This includes stones, metals, vinyl, plastics, glass, and treated woods. Aluminum also has its fare share in the outdoor furnishing business because of its robustness. Aluminum is also long lasting provided that it is well taken cared of. If it is exposed to substances such as suntan lotions, perspiration and car exhausts, the coating will be damaged. Therefore, aluminum should be washed frequently at least once a month with warm water and mild washing liquid.

When planning to furnish your outdoor area, you should also consider other necessary and important items such as patio umbrellas and outdoor heaters. Patio umbrellas are an ideal way to keep the sun and rain away. Patio umbrellas are like large versions of average umbrellas and come in many different shapes, sizes, colors and fabrics. There are many different types of patio umbrellas available and all of them have many benefits. These umbrellas are usually solid no sun light penetrates (casts a solid shadow) and will repel rain. Also, patio umbrellas have a valance on their edge. Valances add a decorative touch and can be used to promote your logo or company slogan. Patio umbrellas are a much more economical option for places where having a high grade frame is less important than having shade.

Outdoor heaters will ensure people who use the patio during colder climates will be able to stay warm. Outdoor heaters are available in the form of gas patio heaters, quartz or ceramic electric lamps, and wood burning chimenea and fire pits.

Radiant heat is emitted from outdoor heaters, and is absorbed by objects and people raising their temperature. With outdoor heaters, it will allow you to enjoy the outdoor patio longer during fall and earlier during the spring time. So don't let old man winter keep you inside! Whether you want to enjoy sitting outside with a cup of coco or warming up from a cold day, an outdoor heater will keep you comfortable.

Having a high quality heater will give you the ability to enjoy the great outdoors longer and it comes in various forms, be it hanging, standing, or table top patio heaters. These outdoor heaters are also available with different fuel sources such as propane, natural gas, infrared, or electric. It really is amazing how technology, such as Infrared Heating, has advanced so much that we are able to provide a variety of heating options for residential patio, restaurant, club house, or any special event area.

The infrared heating is popular mainly because it is much safer to use, easy to use and also economical than most types of heating. The heaters can be controlled to cater for most outdoor activities such as an evening barbeque to outdoor breakfast. The infrared heating offers 40,000 BTUs of heat and is adequate enough for most activities.