3 Best Ways to Set Up Your Patio for Summer
Winter is coming to an end—are you ready to make the most of your patio setup? Buying the right outdoor furniture starts with identifying your needs and knowing how much space you have to work with. Next, choose durable materials based on the weather and the style you prefer. Wrap it up with accessories and decorations for a warm, welcoming vibe.
Ready to enjoy your backyard to the fullest this summer? Keep reading! This guide breaks down how to choose the right patio furniture in 3 easy steps.
01 What’s Your Perfect Patio Day Look Like?
In Quebec, summer is something we truly earn. Months of cold weather have us wanting to make the most of summertime. From morning coffee to weekend barbecues, the right outdoor setup brings out the best of every summer moment.
Think about your patio’s purpose before you buy any outdoor furniture—it’ll help you save space and money.
Planning to grill outside and have friends over?
Go for a barbecue and a patio dining set that makes get-togethers simple and fun. Why not get a stylish rug and a pergola to create an inviting vibe?
Dreaming of unwinding in the fresh air?
Set aside a quiet area for enjoying a good book or a quick nap. Treat yourself to an outdoor sofa or a sun lounger. And for the best happy hour parties, you definitely want to opt for a patio conversation set!
Have a small patio?
Keep it versatile. An outdoor bistro set is great for dining, reading, or enjoying a cold drink in the sun.
02 Get Outdoor Furniture Based on Your Space
Nothing kills the vibe faster than a cluttered patio. Plan your layout to keep things flowing and to create an open, inviting outdoor space.
Top Choices for Large Terrace
Patios over 250 sq. ft. are perfect for creating distinct zones. A dining and grilling space with a barbecue and outdoor dining set on one side, and cozy areas with loungers to soak up the sun on the other.
Our Favourites for Mid-Size Patios
A patio ranging from 100 to 250 sq. ft. is spacious enough for a comfortable lounge area. Entertain friends with an outdoor sectional, and unwind after work in a swivel rocking chair.
Best Picks for Small Balconies
Small patios (under 100 sq. ft.) call for compact, stowable furniture. A bistro set with a table and two chairs works especially well in these areas.
03 Choosing the Right Materials for Your Outdoor Furniture
Let's be honest—Quebec's climate is tough. Your furniture will be exposed to summer sun, spring and fall rain, and freezing winter temperatures.
What Are the Best Materials for Outdoor Furniture in Quebec's Climate?
|
Material |
Advantages |
Maintenance |
|
Aluminum |
This strong, durable, and modern material is highly resistant to weather and rust. Aluminum patio furniture is lightweight, easy to move, and can be stacked or stored with ease. However, it should be protected from strong winds. |
It’s low-maintenance: just use a damp cloth or soapy water to clean, then rinse. |
|
Steel with Coating |
Provides a modern look, with strength and stability to handle weight and wind. A protective coating guards against rust for long-lasting use. |
Wash regularly with soapy water. If rust develops, sand the area and repaint using the manufacturer’s recommended paint. |
|
Plastic (polyethylene) |
Offers a contemporary style with resistance to weather, fading, and scratches. Plastic patio furniture is easy to store and can even be used indoors. It’s lightweight and simple to move, but should be kept out of strong winds. |
Clean regularly with soapy water. Although plastic furniture resists fading, it’s best to keep it in the shade to preserve its appearance. |
|
Wood |
Wooden outdoor furniture—teak, oak, cedar, or pine—adds durability and a welcoming feel to your patio. Teak, in particular, is highly weather-resistant and won’t rot. |
Remove stains with a damp cloth. Use a UV-filter paint, as recommended by the manufacturer, to prevent fading. |
|
Resine Wicker |
High-quality resin wicker (polyethylene) is very weather-resistant. It offers the warm, natural look of real rattan. Synthetic wicker furniture is also lightweight and comfortable. |
Low-maintenance—wash with soapy water and a soft brush. |
|
Natural Wicker |
This durable, eco-friendly, and UV-resistant material brings a cozy, bohemian style to outdoor furniture. Lightweight and sturdy, it’s a great fit for both indoor and outdoor spaces. |
Clean regularly with soapy water. Protect from rain and intense sunlight, and use dry storage in winter for the best results.
|
|
Textilene |
This polyester fabric coated with PVC is weather-resistant. It won’t mould, fade, or dry quickly, bringing comfort and durability to outdoor furniture. |
Clean with a sponge or rinse with water. |
Tips for the Coziest Patio
Patio furniture’s just the beginning—add accessories and decorations for a welcoming vibe. Here are the must-haves of the summer:
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A pergola or patio umbrella: take your meals and downtime outdoors, rain or shine. Proper protection makes summer days all the better.
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An outdoor rug: walk barefoot without burning your feet on wood or concrete. Use a rug to bring lively colours to your backyard while creating distinct zones for relaxing or entertaining.
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A BBQ grill: summer in Quebec is all about great food outdoors—fire up the barbecue for classic grilled dishes or cook up smash burgers on a plancha. When evening comes, surprise everyone with pizza fresh from an outdoor oven.
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Recommended for you: 5 Reasons to Buy a Plancha Grill
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Floating bean bags: put on some music, grab your favourite drink, and enjoy floating in the pool.
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Plants and flowers: brighten up your patio with some greenery. Use decorative planters, flower pots, or stylish wall-mounted planters.
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An outdoor fireplace: extend your summer evenings outside. Add a fireplace to your patio for a warm, cozy atmosphere.
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Soft lighting: string lights, solar lamps, or a light-up side table—the right lighting sets the mood for a cozy evening outside.
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Outdoor cushions: Comfort meets style. Toss a few cushions on your sofa or chairs to add flair to your patio.
Get the Patio of Your Dreams!
From small balconies to large backyards, choose outdoor furniture that suits your needs, fits your space, and withstands the weather. Create a getaway feel at home with the right accessories and decorations.
Excited to transform your outdoor space?
Get the outdoor furniture you want for less at Meubles RD!
FAQ
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How to protect your outdoor furniture during winter?
Before the cold sets in, clean your patio furniture thoroughly and store in a dry place. If that's not possible, securely cover with waterproof furniture covers. Store cushions and removable fabric indoors in a dry space, or outside in an outdoor storage box.
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What are the most durable patio furniture materials?
Aluminum, plastic (polypropylene), and stainless steel top the list, as they are rustproof and withstand rain, UV rays, and frost. Lightweight aluminum and plastic models should be anchored or stored indoors during heavy winds, while sturdier steel furniture can stay put and handle gusty weather.
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Which garden furniture sets can stay outside all year?
Aluminum, plastic (polypropylene), and stainless steel outdoor furniture can remain outside year-round because they resist rust, frost, and UV rays. Lightweight aluminum and plastic models should be anchored or stored indoors during heavy winds. Stainless steel models are inherently sturdier. However, for added durability, securely cover them with waterproof furniture covers.