Shop Around

Like any other major buy, the smart thing to do is take your time, compare prices and really be sure of what you want before buying it. It's much more difficult to return furniture than it is to be picky early on. Today, many people prefer web shopping, and this is a great way to at least get some price points on wicker patio sets. Online auction sites and customer sites like ebay are also good places to check, especially for quality used furniture. Think about what additions you might like, including cushions and umbrellas and how those will factor in to the price. However, when it comes to the actual buying of furniture a lot of people still go to traditional stores. This way you can see up close and touch the furniture and you have a face to face contact. You'd also be supporting your local economy and won't have to pay for shipping. Ask around for UV ratings, warranties, rebates and any other specials the store might offer to ensure you're getting the best product for the best price.

What some people don't realize about wicker patio sets is that there are more than one type of the material known as wicker. Traditionally there is wood wicker, which is often made from bamboo, but there's also rattan, cane and paper fiber. Each of these has a slightly different look and characteristics. For example, paper fiber was popular during the early twentieth century but does not do well if it gets wet. In more recent years, synthetic resin wicker has become popular. Though actually made from plastic and not wicker, the look and feel is the same. As an added bonus, it's much more durable for outside use, and it will not warp, mold, rot, chip or become infested. As a less costly alternative, rattan is sometimes dipped into liquid resin for the same basic effect, but this type is not quite as durable.

Quality

You wouldn't buy a car without test driving it, so why treat your furniture any different? To judge the quality of wicker patio sets first lightly shake the chairs. It should feel sturdy and solid. Then run your hand along the surface weave. If the grain is smooth, that's good, but if your hang snags then it's not good quality wicker. Next, look at how the frame is constructed. Good quality furniture uses rattan pole, hardwood, or aluminum frames. Pieces should be notched and screwed together, but too much bracing can mean that the quality of the rattan is not all that great.

Placement

Before bringing your new purchase home, think about where you plan on putting your furniture and what kind of storage you have. Wicker, though often grouped with other types of patio furniture, is not ideal for outdoor use, and works best in sun rooms or underneath covered porches. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will cause wicker patio sets to break down more quickly, as the fibers dry out and become brittle. Rain, humidity and other kinds of moisture can lead to warping, rotting and mold. If you still plan on keeping furniture outdoors, bring it into indoor storage during the winter. Also, regularly clean all pieces and consider using paint, oil, or another finishing sealant to protect the wood.