Your yard is an extension of your home, so when choosing the right patio and outdoor furniture, comfort should be on the top of your list. You'll want to use your furniture as much as possible, so take special care in trying out your selections before buying. Are the chairs plush enough that they could be in your living room? Do they beckon you to sit and relax? If not, move on to the next product.

Seamless Transitions

It's important to keep in mind that your patio setup can, and should, seem like a seamless transition from house to yard. Nowadays there are plenty of choices on styles. Whether you are looking for a rustic feel or something more contemporary, use your home's interior design as a guide. If you feel like you are at home when you are outside of the home, you're on the right track.

Materials Make the Experience

You can also use your home's interior design scheme to choose the materials you'd like your patio and outdoor furniture to be. Wood, metal, wicker and resin are the most popular choices and each one has its advantages and disadvantages. Woods are beautiful, but are maintenance intensive.

If you are in a covered area, perhaps under an awning and using your furniture primarily for outdoor dining, wood products can be quite elegant. However, if you are looking for comfort poolside as you watch the kids, PVC or resin may be the best choice as it is maintenance free and stands up well to high moisture areas.

Make a List

Always remember that research is the best medicine for tough decisions. Take inventory of your needs and wants and carry that during your shopping experience. But always remember the three S's: Satisfaction, Style and Substance.