by: Bob Benson

If you love being outdoors, you should pick lawn furniture that you love! It should be more than practical and functional. It should add to the very experience of being outside. There are so many options in lawn furniture, and you are sure to find something to fit within your budget.

Does your family host a lot of picnics? If so, there's no doubt a picnic table in your future. Picnic tables come in a lot of varieties ranging from plastic to cast iron. This is one piece of furniture that
can truly fit into any budget. If the picnic table will be used predominantly by adults, a cheaper plastic variety might suit your needs. But if kids are planned guests, think about investing in something just a little more sturdy that can hold up to a flurry of activity that usually follows kids.

If a picnic table and benches are not your style, don't despair. Look into other tables. Choose a heavy glass and concrete pedestal table. Mix and match chairs to get the lawn furniture look you want. Or buy a set. Your lawn furniture fashion options are endless!

You can find lawn furniture at a number of stores ranging from your local discount or "big box" store to the woodworker who custom designs lawn furniture specifically to your liking. And don't forget the
Internet as a source. You have a world of lawn furniture at your fingertips and can even shop from home while wearing your pajamas!

No matter where you plan to buy your lawn furniture, there are a number of items you should check before making a purchase. First, if there happens to be a model on display, try it out. Sit in the chairs. Put pressure on the table top to see how sturdy it is. Does it tip easily? There is only one way to find out! If you buy a lawn furniture set that needs to be assembled, do an inventory of the contents of the box as soon as you open it. If you find that you are missing a part, call the store immediately and let them know you will be coming for either a replacement for the missing part or returning the set you have for a complete one. Once you get the complete set, follow the manufacturer's directions for assembly.

Speaking of assembly, if the thought frightens you, ask the sales clerk if the store offers an assembly service. You can expect to pay extra for the service, but if saving time means something to you, the assembly service is worth considering.

Once you have constructed your lawn furniture, you are ready to start enjoying it. Maybe you already have the perfect place in mind for it. If not, just pretend your yard is a big room. Move your lawn furniture around to experiment with placement just like you would in your house. Once you find the spot, settle in. You'll be happy with your lawn furniture purchase for a long time.