This patio sectional is very attractive and comfy. The mechanisms to join the chairs together worked fine after some initial adjustment, but unless someone is wrestling with your sections they are unnecessary. I would definitely recommend covering the sectional when it is not in use to keep the wood and cushions from fading, which will happen with any outdoor furniture. Overall, we are very pleased. Do note that the sectional pieces seems to be shipped from separate corners of the country and will arrive separately--ours arrived over the span of almost two weeks.