We know that patio umbrellas are made in different sizes ,designs and materials to suit the interests of a wide range of customers. Apart from serving as a shade from the sun or storm, the patio umbrellas must protect you from the UV effects of the sun. For this it is important that the patio umbrellas are made up of acrylic fabrics which are dyed in a solution which provides 98% UV protection and makes it fade resistant. The umbrella stands can be resin,hard plastic, metal,wrought iron, steel or cast iron. Most of them come with locks to prevent it from being stolen. The canopy of the umbrella comes in different colors. It is better to close the umbrellas  on windy and stormy days or when not in use. Large umbrella nets can be put on top of the umbrella to keep the pests like mosquitoes, moths and gnats away so that the dinner can be had in peace. The umbrellas can also be used for barbecues.

When the weather is very cold there is a need for outdoor patio heaters. These days many people are skeptical about the usage of these heaters because they are of the opinion that these heaters are not environment friendly. Patio heaters which run on LPG are safer and more environmentally sensitive than the other fuel alternatives. Care must be taken to check the condition of the flexible hose connecting the regulator to the patio heater inlet,particularly when the cylinder is changed. In case of persistent gas smell, it must be turned off and the cause of the leakage must be identified and corrected. The regulator should be properly fitted on the cylinder. There should be emergency cut-off valves. Table top heaters are portable and can be taken anywhere.

There is no doubt about the fact that teak patio furniture is very durable and there is no need to varnish it .It only has to be oiled with teak oil and there is no question of decay of the wood. However, the fact  that  it is too costly, cannot be overlooked. A better and more economical option would be all weather wicker furniture. Compared to the teak furniture the wicker furniture is much lighter and they look quite elegant.

The all weather wicker furniture is hand woven resin wicker which is UV, stain, crack and split resistant. We need only light soap and water to clean it. It is dirt repelling, strong and environment friendly. It is extremely comfortable and long lasting. It can simply be wiped clean. It can stand years of exposure to sun, rain, frost and salt water. It is meant  for daily wear and tear and even if  left outside, it will not fade. The wicker should be 100% HDPE ( high density polythene )and the frames must be powder coated so that they do not rust. It is better to ensure that the frame is totally rust proof even if it may cost more. The wicker comes in different colors and no maintenance is required.

The wicker furniture is incomplete without outdoor patio cushions. These are specifically made for outdoor use. The cushions are filled with mildew resistant polyester or foam to withstand rough weather conditions like rain, harsh heat of the sun,frost or storm. They are also UV protected so that they do not fade and are specially treated to protect from soil or stains. The fabrics used are fast drying and durable. The fabrics are either made from tough acrylic fibers or polyester. The polyester fabric is softer than the other fabric. Some of the special features of outdoor cushions are that they are:

•    Water repellent
•    Easy to clean
•    Fade resistant
•    Available in different colors

We can even get them custom made to match the color of the wicker furniture. All these outdoor accessories can be ordered on the net and free shipment facilities are also available. Cushion sets with two chair cushions and a cushion for the settee is readily available. The best choice, of course, has to be made by the buyer.