In recent years, as people's pursuit of outdoor life quality has increased, the outdoor furniture market has continued to heat up. However, many consumers have found that a seemingly ordinary outdoor sofa or dining table may cost much more than indoor furniture. What is the reason behind this? This article will analyze the "high price code" of outdoor furniture from multiple angles such as materials, craftsmanship, and design.
Ⅰ. Material cost: from hardwood to high-tech synthetic materials
Outdoor furniture needs to be exposed to harsh environments such as sun, rain, and high temperature for a long time, so the weather resistance of the material is extremely high. For example:
1. Natural hardwood: such as teak, cedar, eucalyptus, etc., because of its natural anti-corrosion and insect-proof properties, it has become a high-end choice. Take teak as an example. Its oil can resist water erosion, but its growth cycle is more than 50 years, and its scarcity has pushed up the cost.
2. Metal materials: powder-coated cast aluminum or rust-proof wrought iron are common options. Cast aluminum furniture requires not only complex casting processes, but also multiple layers of coating to prevent oxidation, and the cost is several times higher than ordinary plastics.
3. Synthetic materials: such as polyester fiber (Sunbrella) fabric, polypropylene (Polyresin), etc., although the price is relatively low, but it is necessary to add anti-ultraviolet agents and anti-mildew ingredients, and the technical threshold is relatively high.
Ⅱ. Production process: the complex process behind durability
The manufacturing of outdoor furniture is far from being summarized as "simple assembly". For example, wooden furniture needs to undergo multiple anti-corrosion treatments, including vacuum pressure impregnation and surface sealing; the welding points of metal furniture require special anti-rust processes, and the hand-weaving of rattan furniture is time-consuming and labor-intensive. In addition, in order to pass international quality standards (such as ISO9001), factories need to invest a lot of testing equipment and manpower.
Ⅲ. Design and function: customization and space adaptation
The design of outdoor furniture needs to take into account both beauty and practicality. For example:
1. Modular design: For example, for a sofa combination that can be spliced, the structural load-bearing and connection method need to be precisely calculated.
2. Ergonomics: The tilt angle of the recliner and the support of the seat cushion need to be repeatedly tested to ensure long-term comfort.
3. Customization service: Some brands offer customization of size, color and even fabric, which further increases the cost.
IV. Transportation and maintenance: Hidden costs cannot be ignored
1. Logistics challenges: Outdoor furniture is large in size and heavy in weight, and is easily damaged during transportation, requiring special packaging. For example, IKEA's aluminum furniture uses reinforced cartons and requires high cross-border shipping costs.
2. Maintenance costs: Wooden furniture needs to be coated with special maintenance oil every year, and metal frames need to be repainted regularly. These additional services are also included in the selling price.
V. Market positioning and brand premium
High-end outdoor furniture brands (such as Outdoor Furniture Plus) often emphasize "outdoor living aesthetics" and increase premiums through design patents and limited edition collaborations. For example, its teak furniture made in the United States and hand-polished can cost 3-5 times that of ordinary products. In addition, environmental certifications (such as FSC sustainable wood) also increase costs.
Future trends: Can affordable alternatives break through?
Although high prices are still the mainstream, some manufacturers are trying to reduce costs through new materials and large-scale production. For example, Chinese manufacturers use automated production lines to produce cast aluminum furniture, which is 30% cheaper than European and American brands. At the same time, the popularity of recycled plastics and composite wood may bring more affordable options to the market.
Conclusion
The high price of outdoor furniture is essentially a comprehensive investment in durability, comfort and aesthetics. When purchasing, consumers can combine the frequency of use and the environment (such as giving priority to rust-proof aluminum in coastal areas) and pay attention to the brand's after-sales service (such as warranty period, accessories supply) to maximize cost-effectiveness.
