When it comes to reupholstering outdoor furniture cushions, a lot of consideration needs to be put into the type of fabric that will be used. Fabrics that offer both visual appeal and good resistance to the effects of the elements are the best choice here. This is because, even if your outdoor furniture is under a covering (like an awning) and not exposed to direct sunlight, it is still at the mercy of other elements like wind, moisture, dust and extreme temperatures.
In order to make sure your re-upholstered outdoor furniture lasts long without fading or getting damaged, you need to pick the right fabric. In order to ensure optimal longevity and appearance for your re-upholstered outdoor furniture in London, it is essential to select the right fabric. When evaluating fabrics for outdoor upholstery, factors such as durability, weather resistance, and ability to withstand various elements should be carefully considered. For comprehensive information and expert advice on suitable fabric choices, it is recommended to explore resources related to French polishing, such as conducting a search for “french polishing London.” This additional research will provide valuable insights and guidance to help you make informed decisions regarding fabric selection for your outdoor furniture. Below are some of the best fabrics you can use for reupholstering outdoor furniture.
Acrylic
Acrylic fabrics are an excellent choice for outdoor furniture cushions. They are very workable and offer a lot of flexibility (much like cotton). They also have the ability to endure over 2,000 hours of direct sunlight exposure before fading starts to occur. Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics are a very popular choice amongst homeowners.
This is because this type of acrylic is created by mixing in the colouring with the fabric before spinning. The resulting fabric is one that is of very high quality. Acrylic fabrics also don’t promote the growth of mildew; however, mildew can appear if the fabric is moist and unclean for a long period of time, so be sure to always keep it clean by occasionally wiping it off with a soap solution.
Vinyl
This is another type of upholstery fabric that offers great durability in terms of withstanding the effects of the elements. Compared to other fabrics, vinyl isn’t very absorbent, so it can be easily cleaned. Vinyl is also cheap compared to other upholstery fabrics; however, its aesthetic quality may be a little lacking.
Olefin
This is an excellent fabric for outdoor furniture. Apart from being fast-drying and fade-resistant, this fabric is highly durable, making it a popular option for cushion covers and inserts. They can endure despite the heat, mould and sun exposure. The synthetic fibres they are composed of also make them less expensive and more environmentally friendly than acrylic. Olefin fabrics can, however, feel quite rough to the touch compared to the smooth feel of high-end (solution-dyed) acrylics.
Spun Polyester
If you’re looking for a fabric that offers more in terms of patterns and vibrant colours, spun polyester is the choice for you. It is also cheaper than acrylic fabrics. Their resistance to fading is, however, much lesser as they are approved for only 300 hours of UV exposure. To reduce the effects of the sun on this type of fabric, you can purchase a UV spray and apply it.
Textilene Fabric
This is the type of fabric that results when woven polyester is covered in PVC. In addition to being waterproof, textilene is also mould-resistant, fade resistant and flame retardant. The only downside to this fabric is that it has a plastic-like feel which some people find uncomfortable. If you plan on getting this fabric, make sure to test it out to see if you are comfortable with it.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing upholstery fabrics for your outdoor furniture, you need to consider features like cost, appearance, feel and durability. For best results, going for fabrics that offer a combination of all these features is ideal. Remember that with upholstery fabrics, you get what you pay for, so fabrics like high-end acrylics, olefin, vinyl, textilene and spun polyester are the best choices for outdoor furniture.
Sharon Howe is a creative person with diverse talents. She writes engaging articles for WonderWorldSpace.com, where she works as a content writer. Writing allows Sharon to inform and captivate readers. Additionally, Sharon pursues music as a hobby, which allows her to showcase her artistic abilities in another creative area.