Decorating an outdoor living area such as a patio or porch can be exciting and daunting all at once. What type of material should you choose? What and how many pieces should you purchase? What size, color and texture will best suit your outdoor space? To answer these questions, you'll need to ask yourself a few more and determine what your needs really are.

How often will you use it?

This is the most important question to ask yourself when deciding what type of patio furniture to purchase. The frequency of use will help you decide if you need something lightweight and easily storable, such as plastic chairs, or durable and long lasting.

If you plan on using your patio several times a day during permitting months, you should look for well constructed, durable hard woods such as teak. These will not only stand up to a frequent use (and probably abuse) but will be easier to clean and maintain. Hardwood patio furniture, while more expensive, is more capable of withstanding the elements than its less expensive counterparts.

How forgiving is your climate?

Depending upon your area, you will need to consider many factors for your furniture. Usually sunny climates will require shade for the furniture and its owners, to prevent sun damage and premature weathering. Areas that are temperate year round can afford to leave the furniture outside, but should maintain some type of covering, whether it is a tarp or sheet, to protect the furniture during inclement weather.

For climates that do not allow year round use of the patio, owners should maintain an adequate storage space. This can be indoors, such as a garage or attic, or an outdoor storage shed. The important thing is to protect the furniture from premature weathering from extreme weather like snow or sleet.

Extremely wet climates should avoid anything made of metal, as it is likely to rust.

Do you already have a style?

You may have already planted an English rose garden or want to set up a patio under a Southern inspired tree grove. The color and style of your existing d'cor will play a contributing factor in the type of patio furniture you purchase. Ideally, the newly selected furniture will blend seamlessly into the existing style and provide an outdoor extension of your home. If you do not already have a style, you can be more experimental in your selections and develop a style as you go along.

The selected furniture should always match the mood you want your living area to provide. Teak offers a warm, inviting atmosphere, while wicker provides a traditional appearance. The typical uses and perceptions of each material, color and style should weigh heavily in the decision. Take your time to make an informed decision. You will be enjoying the furniture for years to come.