There are many types of bars.While there are True Island Style Tiki Bars,there are just as many which fall in the beach,pool garden bar catagory.All seem to fall in the Tiki Catagory today.Just depends on your wants and needs for your particular use.Many describe their bar as tiki which to some degree may vary well be.While others definetly fall within the Tiki Bar catagory.

Be sure if using your bar outdoors it is sealed with a durable exterior high grade finish for protection against the elements.

Keep your bar covered when not in use.This prevents premature wear,especially in the sunbelt and harsh weather states.Use a breathable cover.This helps prevent moisture from gathering on the surface.Store when possible under a roof for extended protection.If you have purchased a bar with a custom bar top.You may want to consider a plexi glass cover for protection.These custom bar tops are much harder to replace then a conventional bar top and can become costly depending on the manufacturer you purchase from.Use small pieces of felt between the top and the plexi glass to prevent moisture from gathering.Some custom bar tops can range from $99 to several thousands of dollars.

When choosing a bar look for your wants and needs to meet your criteria.Number of shelves.Materials used.Place to hang or store glasses and other bar needs.

There are some great deals out there if you take the time to shop around.

Find the bar that meets as many of your needs as possible and then compare prices.

Watch for bars made of plastic.Some look to be real bamboo but are not.Be sure to ask before making your purchase.And vise versa.Your needs may require your purchase be a plastic resin bar.They definetly hold up well in weather but lack the True Islands Style customization you may want for your decor.If purchasing a plastic bar be sure to check for extra shelf support as some tend to sag and bow after a period of time.Metal bars also hold up.As with any bar they also have a few concerns.Rusting for one. When developing a small chip be sure to repair immeditaly.These spots can rust overnight, destroying the appearance in shot order.Prime first then paint.Use exterior finish when possible.Some have mesh tops which allow water to pass through  penetrating everything on your shelves.Again use a quality cover when not in use.

Be sure to check shipping cost.Some bars come with a hefty price attached while others offer low discounted or free shipping in a very few cases.Be sure to add your total cost.You may find that great deal is not so great after all.

I have seen custom handcrafted bars to ready made manufactured resin bars ranging in price from $149 with low discounted shipping cost.To bars listed at $thousands of dollars with pickup only.Be sure to read the entire description before placing a bid.

Be sure what your bidding on is what you want.These can be costly items to return if you change your mind and most will not let you return the item unless you have good reason for doing so.Such as a defective item received.Most honor their products.However watch for return fees and shipping cost.A few may want you to cover the cost for returning the product.Most customized handcrafted bars can  replace items without any cost to the buyer.They are manufactured by the seller and there is no need to replace the entire bar if damaged during the shipping process.This also can reduce your overall cost if needed..If a part malfunctions two years down the road on a sellers customized bar,you can simply order the piece you may need.There are advantages and disadvantages to most anything you purchase.Follow these few simple guidelines and your sure to make the purchase that best suits your needs.