As one admires the inviting elegance of a restaurant’s outdoor seating area, it’s easy to overlook the meticulous planning and effort that has gone into its setup, reminiscent of how an expert athlete makes their sport appear effortless. Yet, several prevailing myths regarding restaurant patio furnishings necessitate clarification.

Myth 1: All Table Tops Will Work Outside

A common misconception is that all table tops are fit for outdoor use. However, materials like oak, despite being a durable hardwood, are prone to warping and splitting under the duress of weather conditions. While teak is more weather-resistant, it demands ongoing maintenance to avoid turning grey. The ideal choices for enduring outdoor conditions are materials such as Envirowood, stainless steel, aluminium, and resin.

Image: Ovation Outdoor furniture built from Envirowood. Enquire now.

Clarification on Table Bases:

Like table tops, not every table base is designed to withstand the elements outdoors. Bases made for indoor use may succumb to rust if used outside, leading to unsightly stains and a neglected look. Applying rust-proof coatings or opting for aluminium and stainless steel bases are effective measures for outdoor settings. Alternatively, make the investment into furniture built with Envirowood to keep the style and class without the maintenance.

Myth 2: Sunlight Has Little to no Impact On Furniture:

Sunlight and weather have a major impact on customer comfort in outdoor dining areas. Dark granite table tops, for example, can absorb heat and become extremely hot, posing a risk of skin burns to diners. Similarly, stainless steel surfaces can reflect sunlight, creating a glare that is uncomfortable for customers. To address these concerns, providing adequate shade with standalone umbrellas can help protect diners from direct sunlight, while opting for table materials like resin, which are less heat-absorbent and reflective, can further enhance customer comfort and enjoyment of the outdoor dining experience.

Myth 3: Unsteady Patio Tables are an Inevitable Part of Dining Outdoors

Although it might escape the attention of some restaurant managers, patrons will definitely notice if their patio tables are unsteady. Almost all outdoor table bases are equipped with levellers. It’s crucial for restaurant staff to inspect tables for stability before each service, adjusting or replacing the levellers as necessary to eliminate any wobble. Resorting to makeshift solutions like stuffing napkins under the table bases not only detracts from the dining area’s appearance but is also less effective than using the built-in levellers designed for this purpose. Ovation Outdoor can help you ensure all of this is taken care of.

Heating in style with Ovation Outdoor’s Aura collection. Enquire now.

Myth 4: Heating Outdoor in the UK is a Financial Burden

Though there’s a perception that heating an outdoor patio could lead to financial loss, strategically warming the area to prolong the alfresco dining period can actually enhance profitability. In the UK, where temperatures can drop, especially during evenings, all restaurants stand to gain from employing stand-alone gas heaters to warm their patios. These devices are particularly beneficial during cooler nights, which are common at various times of the year. It’s crucial to manage the use of gas patio heaters carefully, ensuring they are turned off when not needed. A practical approach is to activate the heaters only when the indoor space is at capacity and the external temperature falls within a comfortable range, thereby expanding the restaurant’s seating capacity. To assess the cost-effectiveness of this strategy, compare the increased revenue from food and beverages sold in the heated outdoor area against the expense of operating the heaters.