If you are looking to turn your outdoor living area into a place to relax and enjoy, then it is highly recommended that you invest in some decent outdoor textiles. They can be used in a variety of ways including as upholstery, drapery and even wall coverings. You can find these types of fabrics in an assortment of colours, patterns and textures.
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Having the right type of fabrics can mean the difference between a comfortable space and an uncomfortable one. While there are many types of fabric on the market, we'll focus specifically on what fabric is good for outdoors, how they&#;re made, and how to care for outdoor furnishings with fabrics &#; even fabric sofas.
The fabric you choose can make a massive difference to your outdoor living space. Let's start by saying that fabric choice is the most important factor in creating an outdoor space. If you want to create a beautiful living room that makes you feel comfortable and happy, your choice of furniture will make all the difference.
The same goes for your garden! You might think that cushions and blankets are just as decorative as they are practical&#;but they have so much more potential than that! The kind of fabric you choose can make a massive difference to your outdoor living space, whether it's adding colour or texture or even creating privacy where there was none before.
One of the most common questions we get asked is: what is outdoor fabric made of?
The two primary types of outdoor fabrics are woven and non-woven. We'll take a closer look at each below:
We&#;ve found that consumers are often confused between the terms &#;waterproof&#; and &#;water resistant&#;, so we&#;re going to clear that up right now.
First off, does &#;outdoor fabric&#; necessarily also mean that the fabric is waterproof or water resistant? Not necessarily. This is because &#;outdoor&#; refers to fabrics that can withstand exposure to the elements outside, whether that&#;s rain or sun, or both, and is made from durable materials that are resistant to fading, water, mould, and mildew.
It doesn&#;t necessarily mean &#;waterproof&#; or &#;water-resistant&#; though &#; those terms are often used interchangeably with each other (or not at all), yet they mean different things entirely! If you want your outdoor furniture and other items to remain safe in the rain, it is important that you understand the difference between water-resistant and waterproof fabrics.
Waterproof items completely block the penetration of water through their fabric or material. Water-resistantfabric or material has a medium protection level, meaning that it will not completely repel water but is woven to deter it. Read more: Water repellent, water resistant and waterproof textiles: the facts
Outdoor fabrics don't have to be 100% waterproof since they're not exposed to rain or snow all year round. However, they do need to be able to resist moisture in the air and stay strong despite repeated exposure to UV rays from sunlight.
Some outdoor fabrics are more durable than others. This means that they can withstand harsher weather conditions, such as rain and snow. These fabrics typically won't fray or tear as easily as other fabrics.
It's important to remember that all fabrics can fray in some way or another. With the right care, however, you can make sure that your outdoor fabric lasts as long as possible.
Fraying is normal for some types of outdoor fabrics, such as cotton canvas or denim, because these fabrics don't have any treatment applied to them to prevent fraying. You'll want to keep this in mind when choosing your project fabrics so that you're not disappointed in the finished product! Fitting is also important with these types of fabrics because they will stretch out over time with wear and tear &#; especially if they're made from natural fibres like cotton or linen which are known for their elasticity.
When choosing the right fabric for your outdoor space, there are many things to consider. The type of fabric you choose will depend on how it will be used, how much sunlight it receives, and what kind of weather conditions it will face.
Outdoor textiles come in many different types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
There are many kinds of outdoor fabrics, including acrylics, polyesters, and vinyl. Here are some basics:
Ultraviolet rays (UV) are one of the causes of fading because they can break down chemical bonds and fade the colour in an object. Other major contributors to fading include visible light and solar heat. There are three different kinds of light: ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared.
Fabrics made to withstand UV rays are easier to clean and last longer than those that don&#;t. UV protection is really important, especially if you&#;re using outdoor curtains for protection against light and heat. They are a stylish yet practical addition to your outdoor space, whether you want to shield yourself from the sun, or control the temperature in your porch, outdoor gazebo, or pergola.
But how exactly are fabrics protected against fading, even after prolonged exposure to UV rays?
UV rays can fade fabrics, so many of the treatments used on outdoor textiles are designed specifically to block or reflect them. The idea of colourfastness is broad once you look at it because colour can fade out of fabrics in so many different ways if they haven&#;t been engineered properly!
From rubbing through general wear and tear, to washing, ironing and light exposure: the colours in fabrics must be able to withstand them all.
Our extensive colour fastness testing is an essential part of the production of all FibreGuard fabrics: the vibrant colours and colour durability are two of the key FibreGuard characteristics that our customers love most. The tests are:
FibreGuard Outdoor fabrics come in a wide range of colours and designs so you can easily match them to your existing décor or create something unique that suits your needs perfectly. We&#;ve engineered them rigorously to ensure the most robust colourfast to light-resistant results. The colourfast-to-light properties in our easy clean fabrics mean that their vibrant colours have been developed in such a way that they will not fade or be washed out, even after prolonged exposure to daylight in all seasons.
Explore our in-depth look at colourfastness and FibreGuard Outdoor fabrics here on our blog: 5 colourfastness tests that secure FibreGuard fabrics&#; optimal fade protection
Mould and mildew can be really bad for your outdoor fabrics and furniture but there are ways to make sure it doesn't gain a foothold. Outdoor textiles can be prone to mould growth and mildew. This is because they are exposed to moisture from rain and other sources, as well as being in contact with the ground, which increases the risk of fungal growth.
Mould and mildew like moisture &#; they thrive on it. If there is too much moisture in the air, then mould and mildew can quickly grow on fabrics. This can be a real problem if you have an outdoor sofa or sofa bed which you use regularly. Most of us have experienced this at some point, but there are steps that can be taken to avoid it happening again.
There are two main causes of mould growing on fabric: dampness combined with sunlight. When materials become wet, they begin to rot from within, creating perfect conditions for mould to grow. Sunlight also makes it easier for mould to thrive as it provides the fuel (UV rays) that they need to survive. The first line of defence against mould is also sunlight. Sunlight can naturally bleach any mould spores present in the fabric, so all you need to do is leave them in direct sunlight for a few hours or days and they'll disappear.
The key thing to remember here is that this doesn&#;t just apply to outdoor fabrics; if your indoor furniture is also made from natural materials (wooden tables, leather chairs etc.), then these can also become susceptible to mould growth if not taken care of properly!
Our FibreGuard Outdoor ranges are designed to resist bad odours, mould and mildew. This is because they're exposed to the elements - rain, sun, wind and snow - which can encourage bacterial growth if not treated correctly.
We recommend using anti-microbial or anti-bacterial options, such as FibreGuard Outdoor, for your outdoor furniture because these materials will stop mould from forming on hard-to-clean surfaces (such as seating).
These properties can help prevent mould from growing on your outdoor cushions, furniture, and rugs. They also make the fabric less hospitable for bacteria that cause bad odours, meaning you don't have to wash your outdoor textiles as often.
Being outdoors is fun, but it can also be hard on your outdoor fabrics. If you want your textiles to last as long as possible, you should regularly clean them.
The first thing you should do is ensure that the fabric or cushioning on your furniture is suitable for outdoor use. It's also important to be careful about where you position your furniture &#; avoid placing it directly next to trees or bushes where leaves can fall on it.
Ensure that your furniture gets spot cleaned regularly so that mould doesn't have time to form on its surface. When dirt and grime build up on your outdoor textiles, they become less effective at protecting you from UV rays or other elements of nature.
By removing these contaminants before they get embedded into your fabrics, you're extending their lifespan by keeping them in better condition for longer periods of time. How often should I clean my fabrics? For most fabrics that are designed for high-traffic areas such as porches or patios&#;including our FibreGuard Outdoor collection&#;you should spot clean them once or twice per year at the very least.
If you spot mould or mildew appearing on your fabric, try cleaning it off straightaway with warm water before it has time to set in.
Covering your furniture: If you're planning on leaving your outdoor furniture out overnight or during bad weather, cover them up! If you don't cover them up and leave them out in the rain or snow, they could get ruined by water damage or get covered in mould which could lead to breakouts of skin infections or allergies if anyone touches them. Also, pro tip: don't store anything wet!
If you must clean your textiles, consider the following:
You can choose from a variety of materials, and there is a variety of characteristics you need to know before you outfit your space.
Whether you're looking for contract outdoor fabric to reupholster patio furniture in commercial spaces, or simply want to make an easy, no-sew patio pillow for your own home, the project will require material made specifically for outdoor use.
You should always research and assess your needs before ordering anything online or impulsively buying fabric. Imagine making (or commissioning) a set of carefully upholstered garden cushions, only to watch them fade and fall apart in a matter of months&#;because you chose the wrong type of fabric.
Are you interested in taking style outdoors with FibreGuard Outdoor performance fabrics this season? Get in touch with us for region-specific contract information tailored to your needs.
Magazine | Glossary | Outdoor fabrics: what they are and everything you need to know to choose them
Outdoor fabrics: what they are and everything you need to know to choose them
Contact us to discuss your requirements of outdoor fabric supplier. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
In the furnishing of outdoor spaces, fabrics take on a key role in giving character and personality to the places where we live. In the following paragraphs, we aim to explore with you the vast landscape of outdoor fabrics, analyzing the different types and their distinctive features.
In addition, we will provide you with useful tips for choosing outdoor fabrics best suited to your needs and introduce some of the best brands in the industry, available at Zefiro Interiors!
In recent years, the focus on furnishing outdoor spaces has grown significantly, bringing to light new solutions and materials that combine functionality and aesthetics.
Textile publishers, in particular, have been able to adapt to these new requirements, offering innovative and durable solutions without sacrificing design and quality.
From terraces to gardens, via verandas and balconies, outdoor fabrics help make these spaces even more welcoming and pleasant. Thanks to state-of-the-art technologies and specific materials, cushions, curtains, sofas, armchairs and carpets can withstand the weather and UV rays, keeping their colors and properties intact over time.
Before understanding the various types of outdoor fabrics available for those looking for an original decorating solution for their home or commercial space, it is important to note that choosing the right material can greatly affect the durability and strength of the product. Among the various options are:
Acrylic fabrics: prized for their lightness, strength and breathability, acrylic fabrics are suitable for making outdoor cushions, sofas and curtains. Thanks to specific treatments, they keep colors vibrant and resist moisture.
Olefin fabrics: made of synthetic fibers, olefin fabrics offer excellent water, stain and UV resistance. Ideal for outdoor furniture such as sofas, armchairs and carpets, they are distinguished by their remarkable durability.
PVC fabrics: totally waterproof and UV-resistant, PVC fabrics are an ideal solution for outdoor tents and covers. While they are easy to clean and maintain, they can, however, be less breathable than other alternatives.
Choosing the most suitable fabric depends on the specific needs of each outdoor space and also on one&#;s preferences in terms of aesthetics and functionality.
It is essential to carefully evaluate the characteristics of each material to find the right balance between durability, maintenance, and design.
Outdoor fabrics help make spaces such as terraces, gardens, balconies, and verandas cozy and pleasant through their design and features such as weather and UV resistanceIn order to navigate the selection of the ideal fabric for outdoor spaces, it is important to keep in mind one key aspect, and that is that the quality of an outdoor fabric is reflected in its ability to withstand the weather and maintain its aesthetic characteristics over time.
So here are the most important characteristics to &#;demand&#; from one&#;s outdoor fabrics:
UV resistance: outdoor fabrics must be treated to resist sunlight, otherwise they will fade and deteriorate quickly.
Waterproofness: a good outdoor fabric must be water and moisture resistant to ensure long life.
Ease of cleaning: fabrics for outdoor spaces must be easy to clean and maintain, as they are constantly exposed to dirt, dust and stains, far more so than those for indoor use.
Breathability: opt for breathable fabrics if possible, especially if you live in hot or humid areas, to ensure maximum comfort. This is a must for the textile elements of chairs, armchairs or outdoor cushions.
Style and design: in addition to technical features, choose a fabric that matches your personal style and the decor of your outdoor space. Relying on the best brands and retailers, you can find all kinds: there is no need to give up elegance, even if the decor is outdoor!
Having analyzed the basic characteristics of a quality outdoor fabric, we now move on to present some of the best brands of outdoor fabrics, also available in Zefiro Interiors&#; catalog.
Selecting a reliable, quality brand is critical to ensuring the success of your outdoor textile furniture project. Here are some of the best outdoor textile brands you can find at Zefiro Interiors:
Pratic: Italy&#;s leading manufacturer of outdoor curtains and covers, Pratic offers a wide range of durable, high-quality fabrics to furnish outdoor spaces with style and functionality.
Tao, Everest: Everest is an industrial company with 30 years of experience in metalworking and the manufacture of luxury indoor and outdoor curtains, using exclusive fabrics made in Italy. The Tao brand is globally appreciated for its unique design and high technological standards. It offers versatile textile solutions that suit both modern and classic settings, always curated with Italian passion and attention to detail, materials, workmanship and craftsmanship. From their catalog, we mention Versus, a motorized roller protection system for outdoor use, equipped with a satin or RAL-painted aluminum casing. The fabric, filtering or shading, when reinforced with horizontal stainless steel bars, can cover surfaces up to 5.4 meters wide per module.
Dedar: a luxury Italian brand, Dedar offers a selection of outdoor fabrics with a sophisticated design and excellent quality, perfect for those who do not want to give up elegance even outside the home. Andatura, for example, is a fabric with a classic striped pattern, ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments. Made from recycled yarn, it boasts flame-retardant, washable and abrasion-, weather-, UV- and mildew-resistant properties. Twillman & Snowdrop, both with a textured texture, combine beauty and sustainability thanks to their recycled yarn composition. In Dedar&#;s range of outdoor fabrics, we also find Ingrid, Luchino and Pauline, which introduce classic motifs from the tailoring tradition into the decoration, adding a touch of couture personality. Libertino, as soft as velvet, is also suitable for outdoor spaces, combining practicality and beauty in one material. Finally, Mazarin is a vibrant jacquard that evokes the archetypal labyrinth motif, adding interest and dynamism to room decoration.
Élitis: a French company specializing in wall coverings and fabrics, Élitis offers outdoor furniture solutions with refined taste and innovative materials.
Designers Guild: Known for its vibrant and colorful fabrics, Designers Guild offers a wide range of outdoor furniture solutions perfect for those who enjoy a bold and creative style. Their Savine Outdoor is a collection of outdoor fabrics featuring coordinating floral and geometric patterns, printed or woven on vibrant watercolor hues. Ideal for outdoor cushions, seating and sun loungers, they are available in several elegant colors. Achara Outdoor Azure, on the other hand, features a texture of squares and rectangles with painted tonal hues, digitally printed on a sturdy, water- and stain-resistant canvas-a perfect design for outdoor seating and sunbeds.
Zimmer and Rohde: Founded in Frankfurt in , Zimmer + Rohde is a company specializing in the production of luxury textiles. The company is renowned for its wide selection of fine materials and partnerships with world-renowned designers.
If you are ready to discuss your outdoor textile furniture project and need further advice, the Zefiro Interiors team is here to help.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for a personalized, in-depth consultation on your needs &#; we will guide you step by step in choosing the right outdoor fabrics for your space!
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