How to Shop for Outdoor Dining Tables

Dining outdoors might usually start at the grill, but it ultimately ends at the table. Whether you want to enjoy the warm summer evenings or the crisp afternoons of autumn, having an outdoor dining table allows you to make the most of your outdoor dinners. Here are some considerations to make when looking for an outdoor dining table. Consider the size of your family and how many people you like to have over at a time. If you already have a specific location in mind, measure the general area, adding additional space for backing chairs out when a person stands up. If you are shopping for outdoor dining table and can't find any small enough for your needs, an outdoor bistro table is the option for you. They have a much smaller surface area designed only for drinks and small appetizers. Next consider which shape will fit best in the area designated for the outdoor dining table. Available table shapes include round, rectangular, oval, and half-moon. Take into consideration the surface area of different shapes; rectangular shaped tables will have corners that can hold all the extra side dishes, while round tables can often fit more people in one space. Half-moon shaped tables are designed to be placed against a wall so that you get the effect of a round table but can have it flush against the wall to conserve space. When considering what materials your outdoor dining table should be made of, consider the climate you live in, the amount of sun exposure, and the maintenance required. Available materials include aluminum, metal, wood, wicker, wrought iron, and plastic. Outdoor dining tables are designed to withstand the elements such as rain, wind and the sun, but not all materials react the same to the weather. Metal and aluminum can heat up quickly when left in the sun, so these sets are best kept in the shade. They may also require special finishes to prevent from rusting and to protect from moisture. Wood can be the easiest to clean and is often the most weather resistant material. However, they may require treatment to withstand moisture and sun exposure over long periods of time. Glass tables are also easy to clean but their fragile tops means they're best used in covered areas. Plastic is the easiest to clean and maintain, but they also can heat up when directly in the sun. Direct sun exposure, over long periods of time, can damage or fade any outdoor dining table. Adding an umbrella or placing the table in the shade not only makes dining more comfortable, but is more likely to preserve your outdoor furniture longer. A stylish outdoor dining table can be the centerpiece to a relaxing outdoor living space. And since ATG Stores.com offers hundreds of outdoor dining tables in a wide variety of styles, you'll find the perfect dining table for your home.