Eating outdoors with friends and family is a simple pleasure that many people enjoy. Having the perfect outdoor dining set makes it even better.

Since all other pieces center around the table, choosing the table first and working outwards through your patio is a good idea.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Dining Table

The first thing homeowners should consider is how many people they typically entertain. This helps determine the size of the table, with table height coming next on the list.

Outdoor dining tables with higher height are a good choice for more formal occasions while tables at a lower height are best for informal or impromptu get-togethers.

The age span of guests also makes a difference in the table height decision. It makes sense to choose a lower height outdoor dining table if many of the guests are children or smaller adults. Extension tables offer versatility to expand when more guests are present or contract when you want more space.

expanding the belvedere extension table

The smallest sizes are for two-person seating while the largest sizes accommodate groups of various sizes.

The decking material makes a difference in how well the dining table will sit on the deck and whether it will leave scuff marks when moved. Homeowners should know whether their patio surface contains concrete, wood, pavers, flagstone, or another popular type of decking material.

Evaluate the shape of the patio to make sure your preferred dining table will easily fit. The location of the dining table to outlets is another consideration as is making sure no obstacles block the path from the back door to the patio.

Measuring the space where the outdoor dining set will sit before making a purchase prevents unnecessary returns and repeat deliveries. After deciding on the ideal length, height, and seating space, select how many chairs to place around the dining table and ensure there’s enough room to place them without guests feeling overly crowded.

Popular Dining Tables from Terra Outdoor

Selecting Chairs for Patio Dining

There’s no rule that says chairs need to match the table if homeowners prefer something else. Some like to keep it more formal by having all chairs match, but others like having different mix and match style options available.

bordeaux table & bench with napa chairs in white
bordeaux table & bench with napa chairs in white for mobile

Buying at least two of each type of chair ensures that a replacement is available if one chair become damaged. Here are some other things to consider:

  • The height of the chairs should match the height of the table to avoid people bumping their knees when sitting down or standing up.
  • The style and colors of the chair should at least complement the table and the whole outdoor seating space.
  • Make sure there will be enough space between chairs for guest to feel comfortable and not need to sit too close together.

Another popular look for outdoor dining sets is to utilize a bench on one side of the table. In some configurations, the bench can be tucked under the table when not in use to save space. By contrast, the other side of the table and the ends are then populated by side or arm chairs.

Customer Favorites: Dining Chairs from Terra Outdoor

Choosing Style and Cushions for Outdoor Dining Chairs

Chairs for patio dining typically come in one of three styles. These include bench seating, arm chairs and side chairs. Stability of the chairs and how well they match the other outside décor are two considerations with this buying choice.

Polyurethane foam is a popular material for outdoor chair cushions because it allows water to run through the cushion without damaging it. Cushions filled with polyester, on the other hand, are more prone to water damage that can cause them to quickly erode.

Regardless of the type of cushions homeowners choose, look for acrylic fabric covers dyed in solution. Taking this step will help to protect the cushions from sun and water damage that can cause them to fade or break down prematurely.

Elaine Smith throw pillows
Elaine Smith throw pillows for mobile

Don’t Overlook Type of Material Used to Make the Outdoor Dining Set

Some of the most common materials used to construct outdoor dining pieces include aluminum, light concrete, teak, wicker, and woven rope. Style is an additional consideration when selecting an outdoor furniture materials.

Also consider the typical weather where they live as some types of material won’t be a good fit. For example, purchasing lightweight chairs would be a mistake in areas that see a lot of wind. Those with heavy rain or snow accumulation need to consider which material resists rotting and mold damage due to moisture.

These steps should make the buying decision easier when it comes to an outdoor dining set. The only thing to do now is sit outside and enjoy it.