Outdoor cushions

Summer is coming so it could be time to upgrade you old outdoor seating or complete that outdoor seating project. If this is something you have in mind there are some important things to consider.

First consideration is the type of cushioning. There are two way to construct outdoor cushion settings. The first is loose cushions. A piece of foam is covered in fabric and placed on the base. This is much like a sofa cushion. The second is fixed cushions. This is when a panel of timber is cut to shape, a piece of foam is glued to the panel which is then covered in fabric. This is the method use for banquette seating. Both types can be use in outdoor seating but the most popular for outdoor cushions is loose cushions. This allows the cushions to be moved quickly if necessary. Cushions can be turned over of moved to allow quicker drying. Fix cushions can be used but it is essential to use an outdoor timber for the panels. A good marine grade outdoor timber will do the job.

Another important consideration for outdoor seating and outdoor furniture is the type of foam. Specialist outdoor foam is the only foam to use. Regular upholstery foam will act like a big sponge and trap water. Outdoor foam, sometimes called reticulated foam, is an open pore foam which allows water to pass through the foam. Because it is a specialist foam costing approximately 30% more than regular foam. There is no question that when making outdoor or even indoor/outdoor seating then this outdoor foam is the only real option.

Another important consideration for outdoor seating is which fabric to use. Regular or even commercial upholstery fabric will not work in an all-weather environment. In the pass outdoor fabric options where limited to plain marine canvass. In recent years some companies have developed full outdoor fabric that look and feel like regular upholstery fabric but they have been developed to be 100% outdoor. This means they have absolutely no water retention and high UV resistance. These properties can vary from fabric to fabric. If you need help please reach out. We are only to happy to advise on suitable outdoor fabrics.

Hopefully this info will help you with your outdoor seating cushions or outdoor seating projects. If you need any more information, please dont hesitate to call us.