Outdoor living spaces are big in Calgary, but our weather doesn’t always make it easy. Between strong UV rays, sudden hailstorms, and freezing winters, your patio furniture needs to do more than just look good. It needs to hold up. That’s why picking the right outdoor furniture store matters.
Calgary Weather and Your Outdoor Furniture
Calgary’s weather is tough on outdoor materials. Summer UV rays can fade cheap fabrics in just a few weeks. Hailstorms can dent metal frames or crack plastic ones. Then, there’s winter. Temperatures can swing from mild to freezing in a single day. Moisture can freeze inside weak materials and cause them to split or rust.
So, if you’re shopping for outdoor furniture, your top concern should be durability.
What to Look For in a Good Outdoor Furniture Store
Start by checking what kind of materials they sell. You’ll want powder-coated aluminum, teak, or synthetic wicker. These handle weather changes better than bare steel or untreated wood.
Ask about the frame construction. Welded joints hold up better than bolted ones. Frames should feel sturdy, not shaky.
Cushion fabrics matter too. Look for outdoor-grade materials like Sunbrella. These are designed to resist fading, water, and mildew. Foam inside the cushion should be quick-dry or reticulated. This helps water drain fast after rain.
Warranties reveal a lot about quality. A good outdoor furniture set should come with a multi-year warranty. Some brands offer five years or more. A reliable store will clearly explain what’s covered—sun fading, frame damage, or fabric issues.
After-sales support is another key piece. Can you get replacement cushions later? Do they offer delivery or setup? If something breaks, will they help you fix it?
Visit a Store That Knows Calgary Weather
Showhome Furniture, located in North Hill Centre, is a family-run furniture Calgary store that gets the local climate. Their 70,000 sq. ft. showroom has a wide range of high-quality outdoor sets designed for Canadian conditions. You can shop custom patio pieces and even get help from their in-house designers. The team will help you pick materials that last and match your space.
5 Questions to Ask Before You Buy Outdoor Furniture
1. Is this furniture rated for year-round outdoor use in Alberta?
Not all "outdoor" furniture can handle our winters. Make sure it’s built for real weather.Not all "outdoor" furniture can handle our winters. Make sure it’s built for real weather.
2. What materials are used in the frame and cushions?
Look for rust-proof metals, UV-resistant fabric, and moisture-wicking cushion foam.
3. How long is the warranty and what does it cover?
Ask for details. A short or vague warranty can signal lower quality.
4. Can I order replacement parts or cushions later on?
This is important if you plan to keep your furniture long-term.
5. Do you offer design help for outdoor spaces?
Some stores, like Showhome Furniture, offer free design consultations to help you plan.
Final Thoughts
Buying outdoor furniture in Calgary takes a bit more planning. The weather here is harsh, and not every set will hold up. A good store will know the challenges and offer pieces that last. Ask questions, test the materials, and make sure the service doesn’t stop at the sale. A trusted local option like Showhome Furniture can make the process simple, and you’ll end up with something you can enjoy for years.
FAQs: Choosing the Right Outdoor Furniture Store for Your Home
1. Why does Calgary’s weather matter when choosing outdoor furniture?
Calgary's weather includes high UV levels, sudden hailstorms, snow, and temperature swings. These conditions can wear down poorly made outdoor furniture fast. Strong sunlight fades cheap fabric and weakens plastics. Hail can damage light framInstruction. A store that understands Calgary weather will stock items that can handle local conditions.
2. What materials should I look for when shopping for outdoor furniture in Calgary?
Choose powder-coated aluminum, teak wood, or high-quality synthetic wicker. These materials are resistant to rust, UV rays, and moisture. Stay away from untreated wood or low-grade steel. For cushions, look for fabric like Sunbrella, which resists fading and water. The cushion filling should be fast-drying or reticulated foam to avoid mildew. A good outdoor furniture store will carry materials that can survive both summer heat and snowy winters.
3. How do I judge the quality of an outdoor furniture store?
Look at what materials they carry, what warranties they offer, and how well they know the local climate. A quality store will explain the pros and cons of different materials. They’ll offer multi-year warranties and carry brands with good reputations. Check if the store provides design support, delivery, or after-sales service. Local experience matters too. Stores like Showhome Furniture in Calgary focus on products that fit Canadian outdoor living.
4. Are warranties really that important for outdoor furniture?
Yes, especially in Calgary. A strong warranty shows that the manufacturer stands behind their product. It should cover key problems like frame failure, fabric fading, and cushion issues. Warranties that last 3 to 5 years or more are a good sign. Always ask what’s included and what’s not. A quality outdoor furniture store will explain the warranty clearly and help with any issues after your purchase.
5. Can I leave my outdoor furniture out all year in Calgary?
It depends on the materials. Some high-end aluminum or teak sets can stay out year-round with covers. But most furniture should be stored or covered during the winter months to extend its life. A good store will tell you how to care for each piece. At Showhome Furniture, the team can walk you through proper storage, cover options, and how to keep your furniture looking new.
Book Your Free Outdoor Space Design Consult at Showhome Furniture in Calgary
Struggling to design your patio or balcony? Get expert help with Showhome Furniture’s free design consultation in Calgary. Their experienced team can guide you in choosing outdoor furniture that stands up to local weather while matching your style. You’ll get advice on materials, layouts, and even long-term care. Plus, as a repeat customer, you’ll unlock extra perks and support. Visit their 70,000 sq. ft. showroom at North Hill Centre today and get started on creating your perfect outdoor setup.
