Long life outdoor living secrets When you’re looking to buy wicker furniture, it’s easy to think of the ‘today’ cost and forget about how much it might cost you in the future. Grant Furniss from Contemporary Classics says there are a few things to consider when buying wicker furniture. “People need to consider how much it will cost to replace in the future if you buy cheap now. It’s worth it to pay extra for something that not only works for you in the moment, but will last a long time. It’s no good buying something that only lasts a few seasons.”
Traditional wicker is now being replaced with an extrusion of Polyethylene that has many advantages over the original. Grant says the Germans have perfected the top product. “It has the best reputation for surviving New Zealand’s extreme UV climate, thanks to the inhibitors. When exposed to our harsh light, the product retains its strength, and is easy to repair – although repairs are hardly ever needed.”
Impressive warranty There’s been over 30 years of development put into this exemplary product, with extrusion products like Hularo and Rehau fibre leading the way. The products offer an impressive warranty of up to 10-years in New New innovation Zealand. There’s a man-made fibre that mimics Grant says it’s important to check wicker storming the world right now – the quality of weaving and finish when filling gardens, resorts, and inside living selecting items for your home. “The spaces. Synthetic wicker is the design weaving should be tight which means it innovation that has Grant excited, and it’s won’t sag and start unravelling. easy to see why. It’s not just the wicker that’s being replaced with manmade substances – the traditional rattan frames of the chairs are being replaced with aluminium. Grant says it’s much lighter in weight, and lasts longer. “Plus, it’s great for the environment, as it avoids the destruction of the jungles that harvesting rattan causes.” Choosing the right aluminium is also key to a long-lasting finished product. Thickness is important for strength, and Grant suggests also tipping the furniture Turn the chair upside down and have a close look at the weaving.
up gently and checking the weld points underneath. “Make sure it’s fully welded not just spot welded.” Maintenance Any aluminium furniture intended for your outdoor living area should be powder coated to stand up to the elements.
Have a close look at the welding..
“Aluminium furniture left outside in coastal environments will develop a white crusting over time where there is exposed raw aluminium. This will need regular washing to remove the salt.” The fibre has to be attached to the aluminium frame by stainless steel pins, to ensure they don’t rust and they stay in place, so Grant says this is another thing you should check for. A final reason for purchasing a better product is that furniture featuring curved aluminium and complicated weaving requires the talents of a skilled artisan to perfect it. As to the cushions, Grant chuckles and says, “That’s another trap.” But one he can help you with! To get free advise, contact Grant on 027 432 8644. myspace Issue 4
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