Focusing on 36 Inch Outdoor Bar Stools

Outdoor bar stools are a staple for any patio or deck area where people want to sit around high-top tables or outdoor bars. But when it comes to finding the right height, 36 inches is the prime spot to focus on.

At 36 inches tall, these barstools are designed to tuck right under counters or bars that stand about 50 inches off the ground. This leaves plenty of leg room while seated, and makes for easy conversing without having to hunch over or crane your neck.

Height Considerations for 36-Inch Outdoor Bar Stools

To understand if 36-inch barstools are right for your space, you need to consider the standard dimensions for bars and counters both indoors and out.

Standard Counter Height vs Bar Height

A standard kitchen counter generally stands 36 inches tall. But a bar, whether inside the home or outdoors, is traditionally 42 inches high. Some outdoor bars or high-top tables even exceed that, going up to 50 inches off the ground.

That's where 36-inch bar stools come in. They're designed specifically to tuck under those taller bar areas, allowing sufficient leg room and arm space on the top. Backless stools can slot right up against the bar frame. But with arms, you'll want to allow an 18-inch gap between bar stools.

Matching Furniture Heights Outdoors

Another consideration is the ability to match bar stool heights with accompanying outdoor furniture. For example, if you have a 48-inch tall high-top table on the patio, 36-inch bar stools would be ideal seating companions.

Similarly, if building a custom outdoor bar, make sure to take measurements of the planned bar stool legs so you can factor the right counter height into the design.

Key Design Factors for Outdoor 36-Inch Bar Stools

The design of your outdoor bar stool plays a pivotal role both visually within your decor, and functionally for safe, comfortable seating.

Materials for Withstanding Outdoor Elements

Outdoor bar stools must stand up to the weather conditions year-round. So focus on heavy-duty materials that resist issues like:

• Rust
• Fading
• Cracking
• Rotting
• Warping
• Mold

Some top material choices include:

• Aluminum
• Stainless steel
• Teak wood
• Wicker or all-weather resin wicker
• Iron or wrought iron

Styles Suiting Outdoor Spaces

In terms of style, lean towards more casual and eclectic looks that mesh with patio, deck, or poolside settings. Some top options include:

• Wicker bar stools with plush cushions
• Vintage industrial with exposed metal framework
• Woven rattan or banana leaf designs
• Wrought iron bistro styles
• Contemporary stools with sleek lines

Backless stools or narrow saddle seats without armrests are not the most comfortable or supportive for extended sitting. So opt for some back support and arm stability.

Ideal Outdoor Spots & Placement for 36-Inch Bar Stools

Knowing prime locations to install your 36-inch outdoor bar stools will help maximize both aesthetics and functionality.

Best Areas for Outdoor Bar Stool Seating

Some top outdoor living areas to furnish with bar height seating choices include:

• Patios
• Decks
• Covered porches
• Pools
• Bars or bar counters
• High-top cocktail tables

Don't limit yourself to just the bar. Scatter some 36-inch stools around high-top tables outdoors to vary the seating heights and tablescapes.

Minding Required Placement Dimensions

Be sure to measure your space carefully before purchasing any stools. You need adequate room to slide them under the countertop or table rim without knocking knees or feeling cramped.

For backless stools, allow a 12-inch gap between the bar front and stool seat. If your stools have back rests or arms, allocate 18 inches of clearance instead.

You should also have at least 36 inches of pass-through walking area around and behind the bar stools when pushed under counters.

Key Buying Considerations for 36-Inch Outdoor Bar Stools

Keep the following factors in mind while shopping the many 36-inch outdoor bar stool options both online and in furniture showrooms.

Weight Loads & Durability Testing

Don't take manufacturing claims at face value. Look for specifics like:

• Total weight load (ideally 300+ lbs per stool)
• Weight testing certifications
• Quality guarantees

Bench-building and load testing confirms construction will withstand years of regular use without fail.

Hardware & Fittings Quality

Examine joining methods and hardware closely. Look for:

• Thick, welded joints instead of screws or bolts
• Stainless steel vs standard hardware
• Reinforced stress points

Quality fittings ensure maximum stability and a longer lifespan for your investment.

Top Brands & Stores for 36-Inch Outdoor Bar Stools

Searching the vast furniture and hardware market helps locate both quality and can't-miss deals.

Recommended Brands for Outdoor 36-Inch Bar Stools

Some top-rated brands featuring weatherproof bar stools across a variety of style choices include:

• O.W. Lee
• Hanover
• Winston
• Panama Jack
• Zuo
• GDF Studio

Stick with commercial-grade construction for patio and outdoor bar seating.

Where to Shop for the Best Value

Check both local showrooms and popular online destinations carrying outdoor furniture like:

• Home Depot
• Wayfair
• Overstock
• Target
• Lowes

Opt to sit on floor samples first before committing to any purchases.

Setting Up & Caring for Your 36-Inch Outdoor Bar Stools

Once you assemble and install your new outdoor bar stools, ongoing maintenance is required for longevity exposed to the elements.

Assembly & Placement Instructions

Be sure to carefully follow all provided instructions for constructing your 36-inch bar stools. This includes:

• Proper bolt tightening with the right tools
• Anchoring feet into hard ground if portable
• Levelling on uneven surfaces as needed
• Minding proximity to counters or bars

It also never hurts to test assembled stools with excess weight before guests arrive to confirm sufficient stability.