When expanding or upgrading outdoor spaces, many businesses wonder if they can cut costs by repurposing indoor furniture instead of purchasing pieces specifically made for the outdoors. From casual seating areas to more structured outdoor dining or meeting zones, using indoor furniture outside can be tempting, especially if you’re trying to save on budget. However, while some furniture pieces can adapt well to outdoor settings, others won’t last long when exposed to the elements. Here’s a guide to help you decide what works and what doesn’t when repurposing indoor furniture for outdoor business spaces.
- Understanding Material Durability
One of the most important considerations when repurposing indoor furniture for outdoor use is material durability. Outdoor conditions—rain, sun, humidity, and fluctuating temperatures—can severely impact materials not designed to withstand them. For instance:
- Metal Furniture: Indoor metal chairs, tables, and shelves can sometimes be adapted for outdoor use if they’re rust-resistant. However, most indoor metal furniture lacks the weatherproof coating found in outdoor furniture, which helps it resist corrosion. Without this coating, metal items may quickly rust when exposed to moisture.
- Wooden Furniture: While some hardwoods, like teak, cedar, and eucalyptus, have natural weather resistance, most indoor wood furniture is treated differently than outdoor wood. Indoor wood often has finishes that degrade outdoors, leading to warping or rotting. If you’re considering repurposing wooden furniture, applying a weather-resistant sealant can help, but it may still not be enough for constant outdoor use.
- Fabric and Upholstered Furniture: Indoor fabrics are not designed to handle UV rays, rain, or dust. Upholstered furniture can absorb moisture, leading to mildew and unpleasant odors. If you’re looking to repurpose sofas or chairs, you’ll likely need to reupholster them with outdoor-grade fabric and add UV-resistant cushions to keep them looking fresh and clean.
- Versatile Indoor Furniture That May Work Outdoors
While indoor furniture isn’t usually built for the outdoors, there are certain types that, with a few modifications, can handle the transition.
- Plastic and Acrylic Furniture: Plastic and acrylic pieces are surprisingly resilient, as they resist water and are less prone to mold and mildew. However, it’s essential to ensure these pieces are sturdy enough for heavier usage. Many businesses find plastic furniture to be a practical choice for outdoor areas, especially in climates with mild weather.
- Metal Shelves and Stands: Many metal storage solutions, such as shelving units, can be successfully repurposed for outdoor spaces if treated with a rust-resistant coating. These can serve as display shelves, planters, or decorative focal points. However, keep in mind that rust prevention treatments should be reapplied periodically for long-term outdoor use.
- Concrete and Stone Pieces: Stone-topped tables, concrete planters, or other stone-based furniture are often used indoors but can transition well to the outdoors without too much hassle. These materials are incredibly durable and can withstand weather changes better than most others. However, they’re usually heavy, so it’s essential to position them in a place where they’re unlikely to be moved frequently.
- What to Avoid Moving Outdoors
Certain types of indoor furniture are generally best kept inside. These include:
- Soft Upholstered Furniture: Without the proper outdoor fabric, upholstered furniture is not a good option for outdoor spaces. Not only does it absorb moisture, but it also fades quickly in the sun. Outdoor furniture is specifically made with UV-resistant fabrics and materials that can resist mildew and dirt.
- Fragile or Delicate Pieces: Antique or delicate furniture made from fragile wood or thin metal should also remain indoors. These pieces can warp, crack, or even break under outdoor conditions, and replacing them could end up costing more in the long run.
- Final Tips for Repurposing Indoor Furniture Outdoors
If you decide to repurpose some indoor furniture for outdoor use, consider applying protective treatments like weather-resistant finishes, rust-proof coatings, and UV-resistant fabric covers. Outdoor furniture covers are also essential for protecting items when they’re not in use.
That said, if you’re interested in durable, long-lasting outdoor options, it might be worth exploring commercial outdoor furniture specifically made for these environments. For example, businesses looking to create seating areas can shop outdoor benches, tables, and chairs designed with weather-resistant materials and easy maintenance in mind. While it may require an initial investment, purpose-built outdoor furniture generally lasts longer and can better withstand the wear and tear of an active outdoor business environment.
While some indoor furniture items can transition to outdoor use with a little preparation and ongoing maintenance, most pieces aren’t built to handle the elements in the way outdoor-specific furniture is. Repurposing can work in some cases, especially for plastic or metal furniture, but for high-traffic areas, it’s often best to invest in dedicated outdoor furnishings. This will help keep your business space functional, attractive, and comfortable for patrons all year round.