Many people want their backyard aesthetic to serve as an extension of their indoor design, spurring them to purchase beautiful outdoor furniture, patio dining sets and other outdoor entertaining decor. A great way to make this transition even more seamless is through strategic patio door design. When chosen correctly, patio doors can make the divide between the inside and outside of a home almost invisible, and best of all, their customizability means that there is an almost unlimited volume of options. 

Choose a style
The three major patio door styles are sliding, swinging and folding. The style best for your patio is determined by how much space you have and how you have your outdoor furniture situated, though you will want to choose a design that has a wide doorway to more fully connect your indoor space to your patio. 

Sliding doors are best for balconies and smaller patios, as they don't interfere with furniture placement and don't require any opening room. They are also almost completely made of glass, so they let in the most light of the three options and can save quite a bit of money on electricity. 

French doors, an incredibly popular patio selection, are classified under the swinging category, though they offer a much different look than their standard exterior door counterparts. These doors need adequate room to open but offer the widest variety of options, as you can customize a multitude of door style accessories. 

Folding doors open and close accordion style in a system of two to eight leaves. They are easily left open, making the barrier between your backyard and your home the most transparent. 

Select a material
The optimal material for your patio door will predominantly depend on your durability needs and your home's decorative appeal. While wood is a popular option, it requires the most upkeep of any option – we recommend you choose vinyl, aluminum, steel or fiberglass instead.

Fiberglass closely mimics the look of wood, but is much more likely to withstand the elements and requires virtually no upkeep. Aluminum is resistant to corrosion, making it ideal in more humid or wet climates. Steel, on the other hand, is the most economical option and is the most rust-resistant. If energy efficiency is your greatest concern, consider choosing vinyl. As a bonus, this supremely durable material will never fade or peel. If you absolutely must have a wooden patio door, then consider clad-wood; the metal armor around it will mean much less maintenance for you.  

Think about the door's surroundings when picking your material; what color is your patio stone or balcony? What color are your patio dining chairs? How about the walls in the connecting kitchen or living room? Keeping the feel of your indoor and outdoor decor similar will be a crucial when creating a seamless transition.

Factor in energy efficiency
Glass is a major component of patio doors, particularly if you've opted for sliding glass. Selecting Low-E glass can help you lower energy bills and protect your home from UV fading, while decorative tempered glass will give you a bit more privacy. If you need additional view control, install blinds or grills on the interior of your door. 

Picking out the perfect patio door will go far beyond making your backyard a beautiful extension of your home. It saves electricity, provides insulation, facilitates outdoor entertaining and compliments both your indoor and outdoor furniture.   

No matter where you live, your location is probably home to a variety of native bird species. These animals produce cheerful sounds and are certainly fun to look at, whether you're an expert ornithologist or simply like the look of robins. Of course, you'll get to spy more aviary critters if your yard is set up to attract them. With a few easy upgrades (both for you and the birds), your outdoor living space will be ready for bird-watching.

Set up bird feeders
If you feed them, they will come … the birds that is! Start attracting the animals by investing in feeders and seeds. Both come in varieties that have their pros and cons, so do your research. Here are some of the most common types of feeders:

Tray or platform: These feeders are very simple in design and feature a tray mounted to a pole. You pour seeds on the tray, and birds come to eat. While these feeders are easy to use, they are an easy target for squirrels looking to poach an easy meal.

House or hopper: House feeders are shaped like, you guessed it, houses. The seed sits inside the hopper and is accessible near the base. This design protects against other animals, but is conducive to bacteria growth if moisture gets into the hopper.

Tube: These long cylindrical feeders often have several openings or one near the bottom. The tube part (or hopper) carries the seeds. They have similar pros and cons to house-style feeders.

Landscape your yard
Birds also like plants and water, so consider spending time working on your garden. Whether you have flowers, trees, shrubs, grasses or bushes, your yard will be perfect for aviary animals. They like to hide in the foliage, so watch carefully to see them. As for water, birds do enjoy bathing. You may want to add a water feature to your yard, such as a bird bath or fountain. In either case, make sure the container has enough water for birds to clean themselves, but not so much they can't stand in it. 

Get comfortable
As more birds visit your yard, you'll be spending additional time outdoors. For this reason, you want to make sure your space is set up for sitting. Make sure your outdoor furniture sets face your bird baths and feeders so you'll have a spot to lounge as you look. You can create a whole living room-like area by decorating with outdoor sectionals, or use lounge chairs to make your viewing a little more solo.

Keep your bird-watching tools near your seating area, that way you can grab your binoculars and field guides at a moment's notice. Furthermore, you may consider keeping a journal in which you jot down notes on the animals you see. Some amateur ornithologists sketch the animals too, though you can always print a photo to paste in your journal if you aren't confident in your drawing skills. Certain birds come out more in different seasons, and keeping a running list of what you spot will get you accustomed to the cycles.

Feng shui is the concept of creating harmony in a space by incorporating certain design pieces. From colors to placement, feng shui outlines ways you can balance your home. You can even bring the concepts outside to your backyard by adding the five feng shui elements: wood, water, fire, earth and metal. As you put together your backyard, consider adopting these ideas for using the elements:

1. Wood

Represents: Creativity, growth, strength and flexibility

Colors: Blue and green

Materials: Wood, plants and natural fibers

Your backyard is naturally conducive to incorporating the wood element, as you likely already have plants. Consider adding a garden if you don't currently have one, or update your landscaping. You can also look for outdoor seating that has blue or green cushions. If your furniture doesn't match the colors used to express wood, you can always get replacement cushion covers.

2. Water

Represents: Wisdom, insightfulness and inspiration

Colors: Black, blue or any very deep shade

Materials: Reflective surfaces, wavy lines and water

You can take a very literal approach to the water element by installing a pool or fountain, or you can be more subtle. For example, you can hang a mirror on your outside wall near your deck. Also, stay away from straight lines and seek twisting surfaces in your furniture instead. Orbital loungers curve to fit the shape of the body and have a circular base, making them a great reflection of the movement of water.

3. Fire

Represents: Expression and boldness

Colors: Warm tones like red, pink or purple

Materials: Fire and light

Fire is a strong element that can make a statement in your backyard design. Get creative by incorporating numerous light sources in your space, such as chandeliers that hang from your covered deck, candles that sit on your outdoor coffee table or even a firepit. The idea is to keep your space bright both literally and in color. Decorate with brilliant shades of red, which you can apply in the form of outdoor seating cushions, throw pillows and decorations. 

4. Earth

Represents: Stability and balance

Colors: Earth tones like brown, yellow and green

Materials: Geometric shapes, stoneware and crystals

Not to be confused with wood, the earth element represents the ground. As such, the items you use to decorate your yard should resemble stones, dirt, etc. You can also use shape to harken to earth. You can get outdoor dining sets that feature both rock and a rectangular shape. For instance, a table with a stone top is the perfect nod to the earth element. 

5. Metal

Represents: Focus, organization and analysis

Color: Metallics such as gold, silver and bronze

Materials: Metal, round and oval shapes, chimes and other sound-producing objects

Having a touch of metal in your decor will add a unique dimension to your space. Consider mixing metal and fire by using metallic candle stands. You can also have round bistro tables and oval serving trays to speak to the shape representation of this element. Hang chimes made of metal pipes to add a pleasant melody to your yard and denote metal. 

You can incorporate any number of these elemental features in your outdoor design. For balance, try using all five!

Many of our outdoor furniture sets come outfitted with weatherproof cushions that don’t fade in the sunlight and repel dampness caused by rain. While the cushions are engineered to last, you may find you want or need replacements for a number of reasons. In fact, our cushions come in two parts: covers and inserts. At some point, you may need one or the other.

Either way, this guide will help with all you need to know for replacement cushions or cushion covers for outdoor furniture, so you can keep yours looking its best.

Reasons to Replace Your Cushions or Covers

You’ll know it is time to replace your outdoor furniture cushions when:

You want to update the color scheme. Say you bought a lovely outdoor sectional with red cushions a few years ago. While the cushions may still be in great shape, your taste may have changed. If you plan on updating your outdoor living spaces and introducing new colors, then picking out cushion covers is a smart move.

Doing so allows you to redecorate without having to spend money on new outdoor furniture or cushion inserts. Browse through the cushions designed for the furniture sets you currently own, and pick out a color that will fit with your new ideas. Don’t get rid of the covers you already have-you may want to go back to the old color scheme at some point.

They’re in disrepair. Cushions are built to withstand the outdoors, so the chances of them falling apart due to the environment are slim. However, extreme weather can damage your cushions. You should avoid leaving them out during such conditions, including the winter, and store them in a dry spot.

If you forget to store them during a thunderstorm or the cold months, you may find you need to pick out new cushions or covers. If just the fabric is worn, go for the covers. However, if the foam is out of shape, a new insert is the way to go.

Consider Your Furniture Material

Patio furniture comes in a wide variety of materials and styles. Just like you have to decide on what your furniture is made of when originally selecting your furniture set, you might also need to factor it in with your patio cushion replacement.

Wood: To keep your wood furniture looking its best, make sure your outdoor replacement cushions or cushion covers are either waterproof or water-resistant. Keep in mind that there is a difference between waterproof (will not absorb any water) and water-resistant (the cover will shed water but the cushion can still absorb a good amount when soaked). Choose the option that best fits how much rain or water your cushions are likely to take on.

Wicker: Contrary to how the term is often used, wicker is actually not a material, but the pattern of the weave. Rattan is a common material used in weaving wicker. Wicker furniture often houses seat cushions only, with no seat back. If you’d like to add a seat back cushion for increased comfort, follow the measuring guidelines below.

Metal: Outdoor furniture made of metal is appealing for its durability and clean design. However, cushions may slip more on metal furniture. Replacement cushions or covers that fit snugly or have ties to anchor them may stay in place better. Check out this DIY tutorial on adding ties to your cushions or covers.

Plastic: Plastic furniture is less expensive than other materials, but you can sacrifice comfort for price. The right cushions can elevate the comfort level while adding some extra style. It’s common for cushions to slip or blow away, so make sure they fit well or have ties.

Determine Cushion Type & Style

Replacement cushions for outdoor furniture can be purchased in standard sizes that fit many furniture styles, but custom cushions or those long lumbar pillows-either for your specific patio furniture set or made to your specifications-often fit and look better. If the outer fabric is worn or faded, but the cushion core itself is still in good shape, you may only need replacement cushion covers for your outdoor furniture.

Here are common cushion seat types:

Single Seat: This is the cushion that will be sat on, and can come in square, iron, round, curved, wicker, and deep styles.

Hinged Chair: The seat and back are connected in a single, hinged cushion. They can be used in chairs that need padding both on the seat and the back. Most hinged chairs have high backs.

Bench: Bench cushions are typically used for sofas and loveseats. Larger furniture pieces like sofas and sectionals are great at seating bigger gatherings in comfort.

Hinged Chaise: Chaise lounges have a longer seat and a reclining back. Cushions for this furniture type have a longer seat area and a hinge seam for where the seat meets the back.

The five most common cushion shapes are rectangle, square, round, contoured, and trapezoid. As far as the typical cushion styles, the box-edge style is usually thicker, with piping around the edges. Bullnose style cushions have rounded edges that offer a more casual look and typically cost less.

Another consideration, make sure that when looking at patio cushion replacements you determine if they are for deep-seated or high-back furniture, which are both not typical dimensions. Deep seating usually features extended seat depth, and is often more comfortable for tall individuals (over six feet). High-back furniture is designed with taller backs for more support. These special designs will require specific cushions.

Choose the Right Fabric

Selecting the right fabric for your replacement cushions or covers is an important decision. You want it to look and feel good, but it also needs to function and be durable enough to last. A good rule of thumb is to look for fabric that is both fade-resistant and water-resistant or waterproof. You don’t want your cushions to fade after two summers, or foster the growth of mold and mildew. Here are some of the most common fabrics used for outdoor cushions:

Sunbrella: This light and durable fabric is resistant to fading, mold, and mildew. It is highly breathable and waterproof.

Cotton Canvas: Canvas is a heavy duty, plain woven fabric. It also dyes easily so it can be found in a wide variety of colors and prints. A water-resistant coating can be added, but without it, cotton canvas is generally not a good choice near water.

Textilene: Often used in sun canopies and sling seating, Textilene is moisture, fading, and mold resistant. This fabric is waterproof (not water-resistant), but does get hot in the sun.

Olefin Fiber: Also known as polypropylene, this fabric is durable against fading, mold, and mildew.

Vinyl: Vinyl is easy to maintain and clean, but can become hot to the touch when it’s been in direct sunlight. It’s not suggested for use with children.

Polyester: Polyester fabric is very cost-effective, as well as resistant to UV rays, stains, and mildew.

RST Brands offers free fabric samples before purchasing because we understand that sometimes it’s best to actually see and feel your options.

How to Measure for Replacement Cushions or Covers

Whether you’ve decided to replace your outdoor cushions or cushion covers because of wear and tear, to update your furniture, or to simply add a new burst of color, you want the right size and fit. Here are some quick measuring guidelines, so you can get the patio cushion replacements that are perfect for your outdoor space.

1) Depending on where you are ordering your replacements, you can use existing cushions for measurements, or the furniture itself. If you are unsure which is preferred, measure both so you have them on hand.

2) You will need a measuring tape, pencil, and paper. A firm tape measure will be easier to use than a flexible measuring tape.

3) When using a measuring tape, place the hook so it grabs one side of the area being measured. Pull the tape across the space and lock it into place so you don’t have to worry about it retracting when you’re not ready.

4) If you have to round a measurement, round up. Often cushions or covers come in sizes to the nearest inch. Cushions that are a little big will be more comfortable than cushions that are a little small.

5) When measuring cushions, lay them on a dry, flat surface. You will measure for width, height (the thickness of the seat cushion), and depth. Stretch the cushion out and measure from seam to seam.

• • For width, measure from the right side of the cushion to the left in three different areas, like the front, middle, and back of the cushion. Use the widest of these measurements, unless the cushion is quite worn and out of shape, then use the smallest measurement.
  • To get the height, or thickness, of your cushion, measure from bottom to top. You may want an outdoor replacement cushion that is more or less cushy than the current one; in the end it’s a matter of preference.
  • Find the depth of your cushion by measuring from top-to-bottom (for back cushions) or back-to-front (for seat cushions).

NOTE: Avoid ordering back cushions that extend past the furniture. This results in a non-supported feeling that can be quite uncomfortable.

6) When measuring the dimensions of your furniture, you also need width, height, and depth.

• • Take three measurements for the width (left-to-right measurement across the seating surface): 1) measure the front edge of the seat frame, 2) between the arms, and 3) at the rear. Use the widest measurement.
  • Here height also refers to the thickness of the cushion. Decide how plush you want the cushion to be, then lock your measuring tape and place it against the seat or back to see how far up or out the cushion would extend.
  • Only one measurement is required for the depth/length of the seating area: measure in the center of the seat from the front edge of the seating surface to where it meets the back. To measure the depth of the back, go from the top of the furniture back to where it meets the seat.

NOTE: For chaise lounges, measure the back, seat, and foot areas.

Tips for Selecting Replacement Cushions and Covers

No matter why you need new cushions or covers for your outdoor furniture, you should follow a few guidelines when purchasing. Make sure you consider the following when you start your search:

Match collections: We offer numerous collections of outdoor furniture, and each piece has its own cushions. As you shop for replacement cushions, make sure you’re looking by collection and piece. For example, if you own the Portofino Signature Six-Piece Deep Seating Set, you should get cushions that are designed for that furniture (the Portofino Six-Piece Replacement Set). That way, you know your new cushions will fit perfectly on your existing furniture.

Match colors: Consider the other furniture pieces you have in your yard. For example, what color is your hammock or patio umbrella? Ideally, your new cushion covers (and thus your furniture) will match the overall decor of your outdoor spaces.

Consider accessories: Buying new cushions provides the perfect opportunity to also purchase accessories, such as throw pillows. Doing so allows you to add a complementary splash of color to your design and as well as additional comfort. Remember, you can’t purchase any old pillow-you need one designed for the outdoors. We carry lumbar and throw pillows in numerous colors sure to meet your lounging needs.

Play with pattern: If you do get pillows in addition to your replacement cushions and covers, you have the opportunity to get creative with patterns. For instance, you might buy solid sand-colored covers and accent your furniture with striped pillows.

How to Care for and Maintain Your Outdoor Replacement Cushions

You can extend the life of your outdoor replacement cushions or outdoor replacement cushion covers with some basic care. Simply follow these easy steps:

• • Regularly brush off dirt and debris. You can also vacuum to reach in between seats or in corners.
  • Remove stains by blotting the fabric, not rubbing.
  • Limit exposure to direct sunlight to keep patio cushion replacement colors vibrant.
  • Place cushions that do become saturated with water seam side down to drain.
  • Covers provide even more flexibility because they can be removed from the cushion for cleaning and drying separately.
  • Properly store cushions during wet or winter seasons by cleaning and drying them thoroughly.

You can also use furniture covers to extend the life of your furniture as a whole. Covers that are slightly wider and deeper than your furniture work best. Just make sure that covers are slightly shorter than your furniture height, so they don’t draw moisture up from the ground.

Replacing your cushions is a simple way to change things up, throw in some seasonal color, and ensure maximum comfort as you enjoy the outdoors.