When it comes to outdoor furniture, Woodard is a household name. For over 150 years, the company has been crafting pieces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also incredibly durable. But have you ever wondered what makes Woodard furniture so resilient? What’s behind the magic that allows their furniture to withstand the harsh elements of nature for years on end? In this article, we’ll delve into the secret ingredients that make Woodard furniture a cut above the rest.
The History of Woodard Furniture
Before we dive into the materials used by Woodard, it’s essential to understand the company’s rich history. Founded in 1866 by Lyman Woodard, the company started as a small metalworking shop in Owosso, Michigan. Initially, Woodard focused on producing various metal goods, including farm equipment and hardware. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that the company shifted its focus to outdoor furniture.
During the 1920s, Woodard began experimenting with wrought iron, a material that would become synonymous with the brand. The company’s early outdoor furniture pieces were crafted using this durable metal, which allowed them to create intricate designs that could withstand the elements. As the years passed, Woodard continued to innovate, incorporating new materials and techniques to stay ahead of the curve.
The Materials That Make Woodard Furniture Tick
So, what’s in a piece of Woodard furniture? The answer lies in the combination of high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Here are the key ingredients that contribute to the durability and beauty of Woodard furniture:
Wrought Iron: The Backbone of Woodard Furniture
Wrought iron is a type of iron alloy that’s been around for centuries. It’s created by heating and hammering iron to remove impurities, resulting in a strong, yet pliable material. Woodard’s use of wrought iron is what sets their furniture apart from others. The company’s ironworkers carefully shape and craft each piece by hand, ensuring that every chair, table, and loveseat is a work of art.
Wrought iron is incredibly durable and resistant to corrosion, making it the perfect material for outdoor furniture. With proper maintenance, a piece of wrought iron furniture can last for decades, even in harsh environments.
Steel: The Unsung Hero of Woodard Furniture
While wrought iron gets most of the attention, steel plays a crucial supporting role in Woodard furniture. The company uses high-strength, low-alloy steel (HSLA) to create the framework for many of their pieces. This type of steel is stronger and lighter than traditional steel, making it ideal for outdoor furniture.
Steel is also more resistant to corrosion than traditional steel, which means it can withstand exposure to moisture and salt air without rusting. This is especially important for coastal homes, where saltwater can wreak havoc on metal furniture.
Aluminum: The Lightweight Alternative
Not all Woodard furniture is made from iron or steel. Some pieces, such as their popular collections, feature frames crafted from high-strength aluminum. This lightweight metal is ideal for outdoor furniture that needs to be moved frequently or for those who prefer a more minimalist aesthetic.
Aluminum is corrosion-resistant and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for outdoor furniture. Woodard’s aluminum frames are often paired with durable fabrics and weather-resistant materials to create pieces that are both stylish and long-lasting.
Fabric and Waterproofing: The Unseen Heroes
While the frame of a Woodard piece is critical, it’s the fabric and waterproofing that truly set the company’s furniture apart. Woodard uses only the highest-quality outdoor fabrics, designed to resist fading, mildew, and UV damage. These fabrics are woven to provide optimal drainage, ensuring that water doesn’t accumulate and cause damage.
But fabric is only half the story. Woodard’s furniture also features advanced waterproofing systems to protect the underlying structure from moisture. This includes coatings, sealants, and specialized treatments that repel water and prevent corrosion.
The Craftsmanship Behind Woodard Furniture
Materials are only part of the equation. The true secret to Woodard’s success lies in the craftsmanship that goes into each and every piece. The company’s skilled artisans and craftsmen have spent years honing their skills, perfecting techniques that have been passed down through generations.
From the initial design phase to the final assembly, every step of the Woodard furniture-making process is a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence. Each piece is carefully hand-crafted, ensuring that every detail, from the welding to the finishing, meets the company’s lofty standards.
A Look Inside the Woodard Factory
Stepping into a Woodard factory is like entering a world of organized chaos. The air is filled with the sound of hammering, welding, and the gentle hum of machinery. Everywhere you look, skilled craftsmen are hard at work, their hands moving with precision as they shape and craft the metal, fabric, and other materials into works of art.
The first thing that strikes you is the attention to detail. Every step of the process is carefully monitored, from the selection of raw materials to the final quality control checks. Woodard’s craftsmen are perfectionists, and it shows in every piece that leaves the factory.
Why Woodard Furniture Stands the Test of Time
So, what’s the secret to Woodard furniture’s remarkable durability? It all comes down to the combination of high-quality materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and a commitment to excellence. When you buy a piece of Woodard furniture, you’re investing in a piece that will last for years, even decades.
Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your backyard or a comfortable set for your patio, Woodard furniture has something for everyone. With their wide range of styles, materials, and finishes, it’s easy to find the perfect piece to complement your outdoor space.
And when you consider the cost per year of ownership, Woodard furniture is a sound investment. With proper maintenance, a piece of Woodard furniture can last for 20 years or more, making it a fraction of the cost of cheaper, less durable alternatives.
Conclusion
Woodard furniture is more than just a collection of materials and craftsmanship – it’s a legacy of quality, durability, and style. For over 150 years, the company has been perfecting the art of outdoor furniture-making, creating pieces that are not only beautiful but also built to last.
Whether you’re a homeowner, interior designer, or simply a lover of quality furniture, Woodard has something to offer. With their commitment to excellence and dedication to craftsmanship, it’s no wonder Woodard furniture has become synonymous with outdoor living.
So the next time you’re in the market for outdoor furniture, consider investing in a piece of Woodard. With its unparalleled durability, stylish designs, and rich history, you can’t go wrong.
What makes Woodard furniture so durable?
Woodard furniture is known for its exceptional durability due to the high-quality materials used in its construction. The company uses only the finest woods, metals, and fabrics to ensure that their pieces can withstand the test of time. From the sturdy frames to the weather-resistant finishes, every detail is carefully considered to create furniture that can endure harsh weather conditions and heavy use.
In addition to the materials, Woodard’s skilled craftsmen employ traditional techniques and cutting-edge technology to ensure that each piece is built to last. From the careful selection of woods to the precision engineering of metal components, every step of the manufacturing process is designed to create furniture that will remain sturdy and functional for generations to come.
What types of materials does Woodard use to make their furniture?
Woodard uses a wide range of high-quality materials to make their furniture, including sustainably sourced hardwoods, durable metals, and weather-resistant fabrics. Their wood selection includes teak, wicker, and recycled poly, among others, each chosen for its unique properties and ability to withstand the elements. The company’s metal components are made from heavy-gauge steel, aluminum, and stainless steel, ensuring strength and durability.
The fabrics used in Woodard’s furniture are equally impressive, with options including Sunbrella, Olefin, and Polyester. These materials are not only weather-resistant but also comfortable and stylish, providing the perfect combination of form and function. Whether you’re looking for a stylish outdoor seating arrangement or a durable dining set, Woodard’s materials are designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
How does Woodard’s construction process contribute to the durability of their furniture?
Woodard’s construction process is a key factor in the durability of their furniture. The company’s skilled craftsmen employ traditional techniques, such as mortise and tenon joinery, to create sturdy frames that can withstand heavy use. In addition, they use advanced technologies, including computer-controlled machinery, to precision-engineer metal components and ensure a precise fit.
The attention to detail in Woodard’s construction process is unparalleled, with every component carefully crafted to ensure maximum strength and durability. From the careful assembly of individual pieces to the rigorous quality control process, every step is designed to create furniture that will last for generations. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable outdoor sofa or a stylish dining set, Woodard’s construction process ensures that their furniture will remain sturdy and functional for years to come.
What kind of warranty does Woodard offer on their furniture?
Woodard offers an industry-leading warranty on their furniture, with most pieces backed by a 3- to 5-year warranty. This comprehensive warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, providing peace of mind for customers and ensuring that their investment is protected. In addition, Woodard’s customer service team is available to assist with any issues or concerns, providing prompt and courteous support.
Woodard’s warranty is a testament to their commitment to quality and durability. The company stands behind their products, confident that they will withstand the test of time. With Woodard, you can enjoy your outdoor space with confidence, knowing that your furniture is backed by one of the best warranties in the industry.
Can Woodard furniture be left outside year-round?
Yes, Woodard furniture is designed to be left outside year-round, even in harsh weather conditions. The company’s weather-resistant materials, including their durable woods and fabrics, are engineered to withstand the elements. Woodard’s finish, a proprietary formula, provides an additional layer of protection against the sun, rain, and snow.
While Woodard furniture can be left outside year-round, it’s still important to perform routine maintenance to ensure the longevity of your pieces. This includes cleaning the furniture regularly, storing cushions and pillows during the off-season, and applying a fabric protector to maintain the integrity of the fabric.
How do I maintain my Woodard furniture to ensure its durability?
Maintaining your Woodard furniture is relatively easy and requires only a few simple steps. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water will help to remove dirt and debris, while a fabric protector can be applied to maintain the integrity of the fabric. It’s also important to store cushions and pillows during the off-season to protect them from the elements.
In addition to routine cleaning and storage, Woodard recommends applying a wood sealant to their wood furniture to maintain its natural beauty and protect it from the elements. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can ensure that your Woodard furniture remains sturdy, functional, and stylish for years to come.
Are there any specific care instructions for Woodard’s fabric and wood components?
Yes, Woodard provides specific care instructions for their fabric and wood components to ensure their longevity. For fabric, it’s recommended to clean spills immediately with mild soap and water, and to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Woodard also recommends applying a fabric protector to maintain the integrity of the fabric and protect it from the elements.
For wood components, Woodard recommends applying a wood sealant to maintain the natural beauty of the wood and protect it from the elements. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, and never use a pressure washer to clean the wood. By following these simple care instructions, you can ensure that your Woodard furniture remains sturdy, functional, and stylish for years to come.