How to Choose Outdoor Chaise & Lounge Chairs

How Much Space Do You Have for the Chaise Lounge?

When choosing the right chaise lounge, keep in mind that this type of seating takes more square footage than your typical bench or other outdoor furniture. It is therefore important to ensure that you have enough space to place the chaise lounge.

A chaise lounge set may not fit well in smaller patios and decks. However, you can use it if you have open pathways leading to your swimming pool or to separate different zones in your yard.

Typical chaise lounges are around 78.5 inches long, 27 inches wide and 16.75 inches tall. You can use this average measurement to see if a chaise lounge set will comfortably fit in your specified area. Some chaise lounges have wider armrests and the seat could even be as wide as 21 inches.

It’s also important to leave a space of around two to three feet between each seat for easy access. You, of course, need some space in front and behind each chaise so you can navigate without obstruction in your patio or deck. Consider the amount of space you have available before you choose a fitting chaise set.

What Type of Material is the Chaise Lounge Set Made From?

The type of chaise lounge construction material will depend on your personal preferences and how the set will match with your existing outdoor furniture.

Chaise lounges today are made from a wide range of materials including hardwoods, softwoods, teak, wicker, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) lumber. You’ll need to consider the comfort, ability to withstand elements, durability, and the required maintenance of each material before you make your choice.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of each of these materials.

• Softwood Chaise Lounges

Softwoods are readily available and therefore less expensive than other materials. However, they are not ideal for your outdoor furniture because they are less comfortable, can crack, chip, or rot if exposed to elements over a long time, and their appearance degrades faster than other materials.

If you choose a softwood chaise lounge, for cost-related reasons probably, make sure to varnish it regularly to prevent the appearance of signs of wear and tear.

• Hardwood Chaise Lounges

Hardwoods are generally stronger and more durable than softwoods. They are relatively more comfortable, hardly dent or scratch, and have a more polished look.

However, hardwood furniture can be damaged by water and may be more expensive than softwoods. If you buy a chaise lounge made of hardwood, remember to stain and varnish it regularly to maintain its great look and quality.

• Wicker Chaise Lounges

Wicker is one of the most popular materials for chaise lounge nowadays. It has an esthetically appealing rustic look and works great for indoor furniture but is not really durable for outdoor use. Some people consider it as less comfortable than other materials.

The durability of wicker furniture actually depends on where it has been placed. It’s also hard to clean. If you go for a wicker chaise lounge, you could place it close to your door at the patio or in some less exposed area.

• Teak Chaise Lounges

Teak is a great material when it comes to the durability of outdoor furniture. It’s also more comfortable and produces its own oil to remain resilient against the elements. If properly maintained, teak furniture can last for many years.

However, it’s only available in one color, which may not go well with your outdoor theme and furniture. If you opt for teak chaise lounges, you may have to regularly rub them down to prevent silver patina discoloration.

• HDPE Lumber Chaise Lounges

HDPE is one of the most durable, weather-resistant, and great looking furniture materials. It makes attractive modern styled chaise lounges. HDPE lumber is known for creating comfortable and luxurious furniture, is resistant to water damage, wind, and rust, and can stay outdoors for even a year without showing signs of wear and tear.

It’s also available in a wide range of colors to match your style, and best of all, it’s easy to clean. You just need soap and warm water to clean your HDPE chaise lounges. However, its durability and other beneficial properties make it a more expensive option.

• Aluminum Chaise Lounges

Aluminum is another popular material for chaise lounges. It has several advantages over other materials. For instance, aluminum is lightweight and extremely durable. It’s resilient against elements, easy to clean and maintain, resistant to rust and water, and can be left outdoors without being damaged by elements.

However, it is not as cheap as other materials such as softwood. Chaise lounges made of aluminum are easy to move around the patio or deck thanks to the lightweight nature of the material.

How to Choose the Right Color for a Chaise Lounge?

Color is another important factor to consider when shopping for chaise lounge sets. You definitely want a color that complements your outdoor furniture style but if you are buying chaise lounges made of wood such as pine, oak, teak, and wicker, you may be limited in your choice of finishes.

If color is a major concern, then go for HDPE lumber chaise lounges which are available in different shades and colors. Aluminum chaises are also available in a wide range of finishes.

Most chaise lounges, however, come in attractive colors including grays, greens, browns, blue, yellow, and other earth colors. To create a modern look in your outdoor spaces, choose a black or white chaise lounge and a brown or green color if you want to create a natural look in your poolside or yard.

A chaise lounge adds a touch of class and elegance to your patio, pool, and other outdoor spaces. However, there are many things you need to consider when choosing the right outdoor chaise & lounge furniture. The tips discussed above should help you make a more informed decision.