Consider the strength, maintenance level requirements, and durability of each material so that you can choose outdoor furniture that will stand the test of time.
Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the most popular outdoor furniture options. It’s durable, resistant to rust, and strong. It comes in a wide variety of colors and designs and its lightweight properties mean it’s easy to move around and to store for the winter.
Most aluminum outdoor furniture is made with a powder-coated finish which provides extra protection against the elements. And it also forms the base for other outdoor furniture options such as resin wicker.
The most lightweight aluminum outdoor furniture is tubular aluminum. Both cast and wrought aluminum are heavier options, so they won’t get tossed about in the wind but they’re not so heavy that it is difficult to move them around.
Benefits:
Lightweight, so it’s easy to move around
Resistant to rust and damage from moisture
Powder coating increases protection from the elements
Easy to clean, minimum maintenance required
Holds up to rain, sunlight and extreme temps
Maintenance tips:
Spritz with mild soap and water to clean off dust/dirt
Touch up any nicks in the paint to keep rust at bay
Level of care:
Minimal
Best for:
Any location. Secure your furniture to avoid damages if you tend to get high winds in your area.
Resin Wicker
Traditional wicker furniture is made from plant material such as cane, however, in this case, the term “wicker” refers to the woven style of the furniture rather than the material used.
Resin wicker consists of a material made from thin strands of PVC, polyethylene, nylon, or high-density polyethylene that have been wrapped around a metal frame.
Benefits:
Offers a traditional look to your outdoor space
Holds up better than traditional wicker materials
High-quality resin wicker is often UV-resistant, so it won’t fade in the sun or crack up from temperature extremes
Resistant to moisture and some sunlight
Maintenance Tips:
Spray pollen and dirt off with a water hose
Let it air dry
Keep in a shaded area when not using your furniture to ensure its long life
Level of care:
Minimal
Best for:
Any location. To prevent possible fading protect from sun exposure when not in use
Wood
The natural beauty of wood is unmistaken.
However, not all woods will withstand the elements equally. While soft woods such as fir, pine, and cedar do offer weather resistance, tropical hardwoods like teak and shorea are exceptionally durable.
Benefits:
Inviting, warm and casual appeal for any outdoor space
Furniture made from cedar and acacia are more affordable options that will still offer some resistance to weather
Commonly used in boats, teak is a durable furniture option that can last a lifetime when maintained well
Sealed teak will withstand rain, sunlight, wind, humidity and extreme temps
Maintenance Tips:
Use coasters to prevent damage from heat and moisture
If you live in a humid area, prevent warping by sealing with varnishes or stains
Use mild soapy water (if the wood has been sealed) to clean off dust, pollen and dirt
If the wood isn’t sealed, but just painted, use a damp cloth and prevent the furniture from getting wet
Also, if the wood hasn’t been treated keep it out of the rain and direct sun to preserve its beauty
Level of care:
Medium
Best for:
Most locations. If you live in an area with lots of moisture and sun take extra precaution if your wood outdoor furniture isn’t sealed.
Recycled Plastic
Recycled plastic outdoor furniture is both strong and durable. It’s impervious to stains, water, cracking, and rotting.
Since color is part of the material and not painted onto it, recycled plastic furniture is also resistant to fading.
It’s frequently made to look like wood but doesn’t require the same upkeep that wood outdoor furniture requires.
Benefits:
Little to no maintenance…just wash off and let air dry
Resistant to moisture, fading, mildew and rot
Eco-friendly
Maintenance Tips:
Typically spraying with water will do the trick. If necessary, use a mild soapy mixture to wash off pollen, dust and dirt.
Level of care:
Minimal
Best for:
All locations
Wrought Iron
Strong and durable, wrought iron is a sought after material for outdoor furniture. Its distinctive appearance, strength and imperviousness to wind are some of the features that are prized.
It’s also heavier than aluminum.
This material has been used for hundreds of years, however it does require more care than other types of outdoor furniture.
More modern wrought iron is often treated with finishes that seal out moisture and which prevent oxidation (rust).
Benefits:
Its weight helps to keeps your furniture where you put it.
Typically comes with a powder coating that seals out moisture.
Withstands wind and sunlight
Maintenance Tips:
Use a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust
Clean any rust with a damp cloth, then sand it, dust it off, and paint with similarly colored paint.
Level of Care:
Medium
Best for:
All locations
Steel
Steel lies in between aluminum and wrought iron in terms of weight.
It’s strong, durable, and stable, making it a good choice for outdoor furniture.
It too comes with a powder-coated finish to help prevent rust.
Benefits:
Heavy weight keeps the furniture in place.
Durable and long-lasting
Doesn’t dent easily, unlike aluminum
Resistant to moisture when given a powder-coating finish
Maintenance Tips:
Spray down and/or clean with a soapy rag to remove pollen and dust
Treat chips in the paint to protect the underlying metal from exposure to the elements
Use a liquid car wax every year – at a minimum – to keep your steel furniture in good condition
Level of care:
Medium
Best for:
All locations
If you like this post, check these out:
Outdoor Furniture Maintenance to Make Your Furniture Last
Quick Tips for Storing Outdoor Furniture
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Furniture for Winter
