Which Outdoor Furniture Material Is For You

While there are endless styles and colours of outdoor furniture to choose from, there are really only four basic categories of materials: wood, metal, natural materials (rattan and wicker), and a range of synthetic materials.

While choosing an outdoor furniture material is in part based upon personal preference, each has its pros and cons. Bear in mind that some pieces also have a combination of materials, such as aluminium and PE rattan.

Wooden Outdoor Furniture

Hardwoods like teak, redwood, and jarrah are ideal for creating outdoor furniture that stays durable and lasts. Softer woods like pressure-treated pine and cedar are also strong materials; however, they aren’t quite as durable as hardwoods.

Wood offers a warm, inviting look and feel like few other furniture materials. The life and quality of wood is preserved when it can be taken indoors, stored, or covered during extreme weather conditions. If this describes your needs and situation, then wood just might be the ideal outdoor furniture material for you.

Iron, Steel and Aluminium Metals

Outdoor furniture made from iron or steel is not as common as it once was, and it must be maintained with paint and finishes to prevent it from rusting. However, aluminium is water resistant and can make for sturdy, lightweight and lasting outdoor furniture.

Iron and steel are extremely heavy and difficult to move in and out of storage, so a permanent, shaded location is ideal for this material. Aluminium can work in just about any condition and is extremely weather resistant; however, there may be style and design limitations.

Natural Materials: Rattan and Wicker

Rattan is a vine in the palm tree family. It grows to a diameter of one to three inches and is extremely durable. Rattan resembles wicker, but has a broader look. Wicker may refer to straw, bamboo, straw or thin rattan.

Natural materials like rattan and wicker are still popular in outdoor furniture construction. These looks are inviting and classic when it comes to texture and style; however, they must be finished and protected from the elements in order to have any durability or longevity.

Synthetic Materials

Synthetic patio furniture materials are highly durable for lounges and outdoor dining setting and resist weather conditions as well as damage from pests. There are a range of style and colour choices that emulate wood, metal and especially wicker and rattan looks.

Synthetics can work in just about any patio, balcony or outdoor space. Outdoor Furniture Ideas offers an abundance of choices in premium synthetic furniture. This material brings with it a much more durable and lasting alternative to natural materials.

Outdoor furniture materials are an important consideration when choosing pieces for your home or business property. Use these guidelines to help you make your final decision.