If you've ever shopped for patio furniture, you've probably run across a fair amount of wicker. The term wicker does not refer specifically to the material, but rather to the process by which the material is shaped into a usable piece. Natural wicker is commonly made of rattan, bamboo or other sturdy, water and damage resistant wood.
However, because of the limitations of supply, even the fast growing rattan vines can be quite costly when compared to plastic or aluminum patio sets. It is still significantly less expensive that slow growing hardwoods, and the quality of wicker is undeniably higher than nearly all plastic or aluminum offerings. Unfortunately, shoppers on a tight budget may be priced out of the wicker market even though the benefits draw them to it.
The perfect compromise to avoid this dilemma to is to explore the options of synthetic wicker. This term can be used in reference to any wicker that is crafted from a non-natural substance, but most often refers to plastic.
Unlike run of the mill plastic patio furniture, synthetic wicker is crafted to have the same durability as natural wicker. Made of high grade plastic, these pieces are incredibly sturdy and attractive, usually mimicking natural wicker to an exceptional degree. Since it is not natural wicker, there are apparent differences between the two. For example, natural wicker has imperfections in the wood, whereas synthetic wicker will have a very smooth texture.
Natural wicker is widely known for its ease of care. It requires a thorough once yearly cleaning, usually before storage, and an occasional oiling or buffing if rough patches arise. Since it is a wood, it is susceptible to the elements. Even the extremely water resistant bamboo will eventually show damage if left in standing water too often or too long. The high grade materials in synthetic wicker are far more forgiving to abuse or neglect than natural wicker. Also, since the materials are non-porous, they are much easier to keep clean. Rather than using a scrub brush and cleaner, synthetic wicker can often be cleaned with a hose and a thorough wipe down.
Another key difference between natural and synthetic wickers is the ability to dye the plastic before production. While natural wicker can, technically, be painted or stained, the finish is not usually as lustrous or even as it should be. Because the plastic can be dyed and shaped, synthetic wicker lends itself to a wide array of patterns and colors to match any d'cor. Many producers are now offering intricate designs woven into their pieces, with multiple colors and unique details that were unheard of for natural wicker. Even if price isn't a deciding factor, you may consider going synthetic for the purely aesthetic options available.
Cheap Outdoor Wicker Furniture
If you are in the market for new home furnishings, you should be taking synthetic wicker furniture into careful consideration. Whether you are looking to furnish your apartment, home, patio, backyard or any room for that matter, the advantages to synthetic wicker are undeniable. Synthetic wicker can be used to fashion and design relatively any piece of furniture from couches, to patio chairs to picnic benches. One of the major advantages of the material is its amazing durability. Synthetic wicker furniture can last for years with barely any maintenance required on your part. This is what makes the material so appealing for outdoor use and in areas that are frequently used by your family or guests.
When it comes to the effects that weather can have on furniture, synthetic wicker furniture shows relatively no damage from wear and tear. There will never be signs of rust or any discoloration and there is no real chance of the furniture taking on mold like many wood furnishings can and will. Unlike other furniture cleaning becomes a whole lot easier as well. All you essentially need is a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt that may have fallen on top of it.
While some people often still prevent natural wicker, you simply cannot deny the key advantages that synthetic wicker furniture provides. On top of the durability, synthetic furniture often holds color better and can look cleaner and brighter than the natural cane material.
One of the little disadvantages to natural wicker can be the price and how difficult it is to obtain the material needed. The plastic used in synthetic furniture is much easier to find and produce and thus cheaper as well. It can often be difficult to find natural wicker furnishings that match your home d'cor or existing furniture, but it is incredibly easy to find synthetic wicker furniture that will not only match everything in your home but will also come at a more affordable price.
While it is true that synthetic wicker furnishings are more affordable you really will not be sacrificing anything when it comes to quality. Synthetic wicker is much stronger that the usual patio furniture you will find and in most cases, look a lot more attractive and classic. While you may be looking towards plastic furniture due to the affordability and durability, the truth is that synthetic wicker furniture can provide all the same benefits with a whole lot less of the drawbacks.
There simply is no denying the key advantages to synthetic wicker furniture. Not only can it add an elegant touch to any room, inside or outside of your home, but it will prove to be incredibly durable and even more affordable than you may have initially imagined.
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