How to Buy Outdoor Furniture in Mexico
When it comes to buying Outdoor Furniture in Mexico, there is more thought that needs to go into it than simply, “will this look good on my patio?” Considering material, maintenance, and cost will help you buy right the first time.
Heat and humidity must Always be taken into consideration when doing Anything living here, especially buying patio furniture in Mexico.
First, the amount of sun we get in Mexico can wreak havoc on outdoor furniture if it's exposed on a daily basis. In addition, the fluctuation of temperature leads many materials to expand in the heat and contract when it cools down, leading to cracks and tears in wood, synthetics, and rattan alike.
Next, there is the matter of humidity and rain that hits us hard in the summer months. All of this moisture weakens metal frames, and causes rust and corrosion on iron and steel which speeds up the degradation process. Finally, add all the salt in the air from the ocean and suddenly furniture near the ocean that may have lasted ten years in Canada or the US lasts 3-5 years here in Mexico.
So, now that we’ve covered the harsh realities of buying outdoor furniture in Mexico, what are some things we can do to ensure our outdoor furniture lasts? Let’s consider maintenance and budget through the lens of the most popular materials for outdoor furniture: metal, wicker, wood, and plastic.
Wrought-Iron/Metal
While traditionally a popular choice in Mexico, and fairly affordable, wrought-iron leaves something to be desired. While the structure itself is durable, it can also be quite heavy, and dragging it across your terrace or yard can end up scratching and damaging the ground beneath it. Furthermore, if it’s out in the elements, you can expect the iron to rust and the paint to begin chipping within the first couple years if exposed to the heat and humidity. Finally, unless you have incredibly plush cushions, it’s not the most comfortable choice for lazing about outside. So if you do choose outdoor iron furniture, make sure it’s out of the sun and rain, and be prepared to re-paint and re-seal it every couple seasons. Other popular choices for metal outdoor furniture include galvanized steel or aluminum which can be lighter, more rust-resistant, and more contemporary-looking.
Wicker
Wicker outdoor furniture always brings to mind a natural, rustic charm to outdoor spaces, and it no longer has to be made of traditional materials such as bamboo, rattan, or seagrass. Synthetic rattan furniture made from resin and vinyl have become popular in recent years. Additionally, wicker furniture is lightweight and easy to move, making it convenient for rearranging or storing. However, if you want it to be out year round, be careful about the type of wicker furniture you invest in here in Mexico. Traditional wicker is prone to breaking and rotting over time if left out in the sun and moisture. Synthetic rattan furniture can be more durable, however it is also prone to fading and tearing if it is made from cheaper synthetic materials. Both types of wicker furniture require regular maintenance, such as cleaning and resealing, to ensure its longevity. But once it unravels, it can be difficult and costly to repair, if repair is an option at all
Wood
Wood furniture is a timeless choice and an obvious favorite for furniture of any kind in Mexico. However, the type of wood you are selecting is the most important factor in choosing wood furniture for the outdoors in Mexico. If possible you should also ensure it has been dried and sealed properly, as variations in heat and humidity can cause improperly-cured wood to split and crack. With that in mind, your best options are denser woods such as tzalam (Mayan Walnut), teak and eucalyptus. While it is incredibly beautiful and durable if maintained properly, wood furniture is also the most costly and high maintenance option on our list, so keep that in mind. If you want to keep your outdoor wood furniture looking fresh, we suggest using a teak oil to seal it at least once a year, or a polyurethane sealant every few years.
Marine-Grade Polymer
If all of this talk of maintenance is making you dizzy, then your best bet is plastic outdoor furniture, specifically high-density polyethylene, or Marine-Grade Polymer. Don't be fooled by cheaper plastic of course, ask questions! While it may not sound as glamorous as the other options, it is almost always going to be lower maintenance, more affordable, and built to last. Outdoor plastic furniture doesn’t rot, swell, break down, fade or warp (at least the good stuff), even in the harshest of elements. It can be made to look like wood, or can even be plastic-cast to look like “woven” rattan that can never unravel on you! The options with polymer are endless and therefore the favorite on our list.
Patio furniture can completely transform the outdoor space of your Mexican home into an oasis fit for relaxing and entertaining alike, but to find which option best suits your needs, it’s important to consider the following: Does your space have the necessary shade to protect the material you’ve chosen? How much effort you are willing to put into its cleaning and care, and finally how much are you willing to spend? Investing a bit more time and money will not only keep your patio furniture in Mexico looking beautiful and guest-ready, but it will save you from frequent replacements in the future
Want help finding the Right outdoor furniture or designing the outdoor space for your Mexican home (or beyond?)? Contact Us!
