When choosing garden furniture or any form of outdoor or patio furniture it is very important to choose the right set from the onset. Here at aicathlonoutdoor, we aim to not only advise you of the right choice of garden furniture but also make sure the outdoor furniture you choose is right for you.

Just like you are shopping for other furniture, rattan furniture varies in style, price and quality. If you’re looking for premium rattan furniture, then there are plenty of top quality pieces on offer, but you must know what you are looking for in order to come away with a top deal as well as premium quality furniture. Among all kinds of rattan furniture, rattan sofa is the most popular. This article will tell you some information about rattan sofas and help you choose a rattan sofa that suits you.

Natural vs Synthetic rattan Rattan

Natural rattan vines obtained from tropics, usually between palm leaves knotted type. It is light and flexible with long fibers of 2 to 5mm in diameter, but has the disadvantage that to be natural, is more sensitive to the weather and its durability is compromised; heat, rain, salt and pests undermine his qualities, making them more easily deteriorate and require more care.

The plastic rattan, is a synthetic fiber that mimics the natural rattan. It provides excellent finishes and has numerous advantages. This makes it requested when decorating our gardens and terraces providing style and naturalness.

What are the Plastics used for Sofa Set?

The main three plastics used for sofa set are PE, PU and PVC. They are all 100% weather-resistant, resistance to mould, sun exposure and extreme temperatures, however, each material varies in properties that provide the best life expectancy for outdoor use.

PE rattan sofa set

PE rattan sofa set is used for many outdoor rattan products. PE(Polyethylene) is a thermoplastic resin, which means an item made with the material can be recycled, melted down and reformed into another shape. This means PE furniture is Eco-Friendly as it is fully recyclable. PE is also a tougher material than PU & PVC. A hard-wearing, durable plastic with excellent UV and mould resistant properties.

PU rattan sofa set

PU features good elastic strength and will provide good resistance to cracking. For frequent usage of furniture, PUs flexibility properties provide a good life. Also features good UV and mould resistant properties, however, the downside to PU is that is not recyclable and not as durable as PE rattan.It is still suitable for the British weather; however, we recommend covering the furniture during the winter months for added protection.

PVC Rattan sofa set

PVC rattan furniture is another material used for outdoor rattan. PVC is mixed with an elastic material to add flexibility and then woven onto a metal frame. Its properties on rattan furniture are lower than PE and PU.It is suitable for the British weather; however, we recommend covering the furniture during the winter months for added protection.

Anyway, the sofa cover made of PE material is the best choice for most people. The advantages of PE sofa covers are as follows besides the above.
Advantages:

Little or no maintenance

Washable with water

Resistant to the weather

Available in various colors

In addition to the material, the cushion and adjustable feet are also one of the important components of the plastic rattan sofa cover.

Cushion

The outdoor weather is not as stable as indoors. If it rains, the plastic rattan sofa set can be waterproof, but if the cushions on the sofa are not waterproof, it will be very troublesome. And fabric thickness is crucial and the thicker your cushion the more comfortable and less susceptible to wear and tear it will be. 

Adjustable feet

Adjustable feet are ideal for uneven patios or lawns to keep your set at an even height. These adjustable feet can be the difference between a wobbly set or premium comfort. Most of our furniture is equipped with adjustable feet on sofa sets and chairs which is ideal for uneven patio surfaces.