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An outdoor sectional is the most comfortable way to seat a group on a patio, and the easiest to get wrong. A set that is too big blocks the door and leaves no path; one that is too small leaves empty floor.
Measure first, then choose the shape. A good rule is to leave about 3 feet for walking and 18 inches between the seat and a coffee table.
Measure the patio
- Total length and width. Note any posts, steps and where the door swings.
- The walkway. Keep a clear path of about 3 feet from the door to the rest of the patio.
- The seating area. Subtract the walkway and what is left is the most the sectional can take.
- Seat depth. Outdoor seats are 24 to 30 inches deep. A deeper seat is more comfortable but takes floor.
- The table. Leave 14 to 18 inches between seat and coffee table.
The sofa fit calculator can check whether a piece fits through your door before you order, and the outdoor rug size calculator sizes the rug under it.
01An L-shaped sectional against two walls
The L fills a corner and leaves the middle free. It is the best use of a small square patio.
Outdoor sofas and sectionals at Aosom
02A modular set you can rearrange
Modular pieces let you build an L today, a straight sofa next year and two chairs on a smaller patio. Buy the corner and one or two sections first, then add.
03A compact two-piece loveseat set
A loveseat and one chair seats three on a footprint of about 6 by 6 feet. It is the sensible size for most balconies and small terraces.
04A sectional with storage inside
Some sections lift to hold cushions. This saves buying a deck box and keeps cushions dry.
05Low-profile wicker
Low, open frames look lighter and take up less visual space. Choose resin wicker over an aluminum frame, which does not rust.
06A set with a built-in table
An ottoman or table that tucks under a seat saves floor when you are not using it.
07A corner sofa with a chaise
A chaise end gives one person a place to stretch out, and the other end stays compact.
08Pair a sectional with a pergola or shade
A sectional gets hot sun. Put it under a pergola or sail, or choose a lighter fabric. See small patio pergola ideas and patio shade ideas.
09Add a fire table in front
A low fire table doubles as a coffee table. Check clearances to the seat and the cushion fabric before use. See cozy patio ideas.
10Cover it in the off season
A fitted cover extends the life of cushions and frame. Buy one made for your size, or store cushions in a deck box.
What to look for
- Frame: powder-coated aluminum is light and does not rust; steel is stronger but needs a good coating.
- Weave: resin wicker handles sun and rain better than natural rattan.
- Cushions: quick-dry foam and a solution-dyed fabric resist mildew and fading.
- Warranty: look for at least one year on the frame.
Which shape for which patio
- Square, 8 by 8 feet: a small L or a loveseat set.
- Long and narrow: a straight sofa and chairs.
- Open on two sides: an L with the back to the wind.
- Rental: a modular set you can take with you.
Before you pay
- Measure the delivery route, not only the patio.
- Compare sizes by seat depth, not by piece count.
- Check how heavy the set is if the wind is strong.
- Read the return policy for large items.
