Shop smart for outdoor furniture

The living is easy during summer in the tri-county area, and it takes great patio furniture to bring that style and comfort outdoors.

With the right furnishings, your deck, porch or waterfront landing can become a second family room during the warm summer months. Rather than looking for pieces that will only last for a season, you might want to consider making a bigger investment in outdoor furniture, look for items that are durable yet stylish, able to handle any weather conditions Mother Nature throws your way.

Chat seating, fire pit tables, sectionals, loveseats, balcony height dining sets and deep seating are just a few trends right now in outdoor living furniture. “With all the lakes in the tri-county area, people are taking whole rooms outdoors, including kitchens and family rooms,” said Kimberly Keyes of Keyes Pool & Patio in Fenton. “Fire pits continue to be really popular.”

Michigan-made and U.S. made products are very popular, ensuring a quality outdoor experience for years to come. Many of these outdoor sets come with long warranties, with manufacturers standing behind their products.

“You’ll love the quality of American made outdoor furniture,” said Jill Eastman, patio manager at Grand Blanc Outdoors. She sells Telescope Casual Outdoor furniture, which comes with a 15-year warranty, as well as Home & Garden. All of these companies offer custom design, enabling the customer to choose the material of the furniture itself, as well as cushion or sling-back style and fabrics to coordinate with a homeowner’s outdoor style.

People are investing more dollars now at home and enjoying summertime entertaining there with family and friends, according to Jeff Griffis, sales consultant at Macksood’s in Flushing.

Tips for choosing the best patio furniture for your space:

• Figure out how you plan to use your outdoor space, and buy furniture appropriate for that purpose.

• Take a seat before buying the furniture to make sure it is comfortable.

• Go for easy care and maintenance when selecting materials and fabrics.

• Consider storage for your outdoor pieces. Grand Blanc Outdoors carries a full line of outdoor furniture covers to complement their sets.

• Use color on accent pieces, and go for neutral on the furniture.

• Invest in quality.

• Consider buying an outdoor rug to make your living space even more comfortable.

• Search for dual-purpose pieces.