Here at Allied Pools you are sure to find a bar stool to fit you needs. We offer an extensive selection of bar stools to choose from. Shopping for new stools can sometimes be a daunting task. So to provide you with an effortless and trouble-free shopping experience we’ve compiled some information to consider.
What height stool do I need for my area?
Is there a wood color or a certain theme you are trying to match?
Do I want backed or backless / armed or armless stools?
How many stools do I need?
How do I determine if I am getting a quality stool?
What height stool do I need for my area?
Be sure to measure the height of the surface to which you are matching your stools. A typical counter will range in height from 35”–37” and will require a 24”-26” stool. While a standard bar or a raised kitchen breakfast bar will range in height from 40”– 42” and will require a 30” stool. Most people will need a bar stool in the 24" to 30" range, but in rare cased you may need 34” stools. 34" bar stools are used for counters or bars that exceed 42" in height or can be used as a spectator stool in a billiard room. Be sure to double check your measurements before ordering a 34" bar stool.
Is there a wood color or a certain theme you are trying to match?
If you are trying to match your stools to a wood color that is currently in the room, be sure to bring in a sample of the stained wood when you come shopping for your new stools. Wood colors often seem a different shade or tone from your home to our showroom (different lighting).
Do I want backed or backless / armed or armless stools?
Stools with backs and arms tend to relieve stress on your back and shoulders and therefore will be more comfortable to sit in for extended periods. Armless stools however will use less space between stools and may allow for additional seating. Armless stools may also be more comfortable for people with a large build. So don’t forget to consider who will be using the stools.
In cases where you don’t want the back of a stool to obstruct your view you might consider a low back or backless stool. Backless stools can also be used as an inexpensive way to provide occasional supplementary seating at your bar or counter.
A 24” measurement from stool to stool on center can be used as a general rule of thumb. This may vary depending on the specific stools you choose for your space. So be sure to measure the length of your counter or bar surface. A 60” surface length will typically accommodate 2 stools. An 84” surface length will typically accommodate 3 stools. While a 96” surface length will accommodate up to 4 stools.
How do I determine if I am getting a quality stool?
It is very important to examining the strength of construction used in the production of your stools to determine how sturdy and durable the stool will be. The weight of the stool can also be a revealing indicator of the quality of the stool weather it is metal or wood. Below are a few things to consider when choosing a stool.
Metal – A very light metal stool might reveal that the stool may not support a lot of weight. Thin materials could be an easy way for the manufacturer to cut the cost of the stool but this could have a negative impact on quality. Look to see if the stool is bolted together or if it is welded together at the joints. Bolts may begin to loosen over time and cause a phenomenon known as “racking”. This is where the stool begins to rock back and forth as the bolts loosen which could cause the stool to bend while under stress. Be sure the finish is powder coated rather than spray painted as these finishes are far more chip and scratch resistant.
Wood – Again a very light wood stool could indicate that the manufacture may have produced a stool that may not support a lot of weight. This may not be a bad thing if everyone using your stools is a very small person and doesn’t move around a lot while using your stools. However, even if your family and friends are all relatively small people it might not be a bad idea to have stools that are designed to support much larger people. This additional strength could determine the longevity of your new stools. A well made wood stool should utilize hardwood materials as well as use a mortise and tenon construction and look for quality features like adjustable leg levelers. An inability to level the stools on an uneven floor can cause the joints to loosen and damage to a wood stool over time. Look for stools that are stained as opposed to painted. Stains will saturate into the wood and accent the natural beauty of the hardwood while paint only covers it up. Furthermore paint only sticks to the surface so very shallow or surface scratches will be more noticeable on painted stools.
