Choosing the right materials for your outdoor furniture is crucial to ensure it withstands the elements while retaining its beauty and functionality. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming trying to select the perfect material that checks all your boxes for style, durability, maintenance, and cost. This comprehensive guide examines the most popular materials for outdoor furniture—wood, metal, wicker, and plastic—exploring the advantages and disadvantages of each to help you discover the best material for your needs.
An Overview of Outdoor Furniture Materials
Outdoor furniture must endure a lot: sun, rain, snow, extreme temperatures, mold, mildew, and insects. The ideal outdoor furniture material is attractive, affordable, easy to maintain, and can hold up well against the rigors of the elements. Here’s a quick comparison of the most common materials:
Wood – A classic choice, wood offers a timeless, natural look. But it requires routine maintenance to prevent rotting, splintering, cracking, and infestations. Teak, cedar, and redwood have natural oils that help resist water damage.
Wicker – Usually made from plant fibers woven over a frame, wicker has an airy, beachy vibe. It’s lightweight and stylish but not very sturdy or durable long-term.
Metal – Very strong and durable, metal is ideal for poolside and patio furniture. But it can get hot in the sun and may rust if not powder-coated or properly maintained. Aluminum, wrought iron, and stainless steel are common choices.
Plastic – Affordable, low-maintenance, and waterproof, plastic resists weather, rot, and bugs. But lower-quality plastic furniture can look cheap, fade in the sun, crack, or bend. Polyethylene and polypropylene are common types.
Now let’s examine the pros and cons of each material more closely.
Wood Outdoor Furniture: A Timeless Classic
Wood is a traditional favorite material because of its natural beauty, inviting warmth, and artisanal charm. Wooden outdoor furniture evokes a sense of coziness and nostalgia. The rich grains and textures add organic flair and no two pieces are exactly alike. Wood pairs well with any style—modern, rustic, elegant, or eclectic. It’s also very durable if properly maintained.
Popular woods for outdoor use include:
- Teak – Ideal for outdoor use because it has a high oil content that makes it water, mold, mildew, and insect resistant. Requires minimal upkeep. Weathers to a silvery-gray patina. Very expensive.
- Cedar – Its natural oils also help resist moisture, decay, and bugs. Affordable, lightweight, straight-grained, and aromatic. Ages to an attractive silvery hue over time.
- Redwood – Naturally resistant to insects, moisture, warping, and checking. Offer beautiful grain patterns and a reddish color when new that fades to gray. Durable and relatively affordable.
- Ipe – Exotic dark-hued Brazilian walnut wood acclaimed for weather-resistance. Dense, scratch-resistant, and durable. Needs no sealant. Very pricey.
- Acacia – Affordable hardwood with varied grain patterns. Naturally pest-resistant but still requires sealants and maintenance. Warps over time if untreated.
- Eucalyptus – Fast-growing, sustainable Brazilian pine wood. Offers an attractive grain and natural weather-resistance, though still benefits from sealants. Lower cost.
The Advantages of Wood Furniture
- Timeless, classic look that’s always in style
- Warm, inviting, natural aesthetic with beautiful grains
- Durable and long-lasting, especially dense tropical hardwoods
- Materials like teak and cedar resist weathering
- Can be easily re-stained, sealed, or refinished
The Disadvantages of Wood Furniture
- Requires the most maintenance of any outdoor furniture material
- Needs periodic sealing, staining, or refinishing to protect from elements
- Can crack, splinter, peel, or warp without proper care
- Prone to rotting, mold, mildew if moisture isn’t properly mitigated
- Susceptible to insect damage (termites, carpenter ants, wood-boring beetles)
- Teak and other tropical hardwoods are very expensive
- Some cheaper woods may not withstand weather as well
To get the most longevity out of wooden outdoor furniture, choose woods with natural weather-resistance like teak, cedar, or redwood. Apply protective sealants as needed, provide proper drainage, clean periodically, and store cushions/pillows when not in use. With proper care, wood furniture can last decades outdoors.
Durable, Strong Metal Outdoor Furniture
Metal furniture makes a great choice for outdoor spaces. It’s strong, durable, and weather-resistant, able to withstand sun, wind, rain, and salt air corrosion. Metal outdoor furniture is a smart investment because it’s built to last for years. And it comes in array of styles—from sleek modern to ornamental antique reproductions.
Wrought iron, aluminum, and steel are common metals used:
- Wrought iron – Decorative, ornate styles. Heavy and durable. Prone to rusting. Requires maintenance.
- Aluminum – Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and economical. Available in array of finishes. May dent with heavy impact.
- Steel – Unparalleled strength. Sturdy and supportive frames. Stainless steel offers rust resistance. Requires some maintenance.
- Wicker – Aluminum or steel frames woven with vinyl or resin fibers. Lightweight. Won’t unravel, crack, or peel.
The Advantages of Metal Outdoor Furniture
- Extremely durable, weather-resistant, and long-lasting
- Won’t crack, peel, rot, or be damaged by insects/pests
- Retains shape and structural integrity for years
- Stylish designs suit any décor
- Easy to maintain by periodically cleaning and protecting
- Many affordable aluminum and steel options
The Disadvantages of Metal Outdoor Furniture
- Susceptible to rust if scratched and not promptly treated
- Wrought iron furniture requires the most maintenance
- Aluminum may bend with excessive weight or movement
- Metal conducts heat, gets very hot in direct sunlight
- Not as comfortable or ergonomic as other materials
- Impersonal, cold feel
To maximize durability with metal outdoor furniture, choose aluminum, stainless steel, or powder-coated options better protected from rusting. Provide padding or cushions for comfort. Keep clean and dry to prevent corrosion. Apply protectants on wrought iron. Bring indoors or cover during extreme weather. With regular care, quality metal furniture will endure for many years outdoors.
All-Weather Wicker Furniture
Wicker refers to a woven style, not a material. While traditional wicker was hand-woven from natural rattan vine, modern outdoor wicker furniture typically uses all-weather resin “faux wicker” fibers woven over aluminum or steel frames. This makes it far more durable and weather-resistant than natural wicker.
Synthetic wicker won’t crack, peel, unravel, or sag. It’s also stain-resistant and easy to clean by simply hosing off dirt. Choose a thicker 12mm gauge fiber for increased durability. Avoid flat wicker and opt for high-density curved fibers instead—this “rolls with the punches” better than flat wicker.
Look for solid, reinforced frames that won’t bend or flex over time. Aluminum or powder-coated steel frames will resist rust and corrosion. Today’s wicker can withstand all kinds of weather extremes while retaining its graceful form and appealing visual texture.
The Advantages of Wicker Furniture
- All-weather resin wicker holds up better outside than natural wicker
- Lightweight, easy to reposition, and comfortable
- Airy, breathable style keeps you cooler than solid materials
- Casual, laidback look perfect for patios and poolsides
- Range of stylish colors and patterns available
- Affordable prices, especially for basic sets
- Little maintenance required beyond hose-downs
The Disadvantages of Wicker Furniture
- Durability limited despite materials—not as indestructible as wood or metal
- May fade, discolor, become brittle, or crack over time
- Resin fibers can unravel, sag, or break with rough treatment
- Not as supportive as other outdoor furniture—sags over time
- Vulnerable to wind damage if not stored properly when not in use
- Can trap moisture and promote mildew growth within fibers
While today’s synthetic wicker holds up better outside than natural wicker, it still requires some maintenance and care. Use furniture covers or bring pieces indoors when not in use to extend their life. Routinely wash down and check for damage to fibers, catching unraveling early and repairing. With proper care, quality all-weather wicker furniture can stay looking great for many seasons.
Durable, Affordable Plastic Outdoor Furniture
Plastic or resin outdoor furniture offers an affordable, low-maintenance option for outdoor spaces. Easy to clean and store, it’s impervious to weather, rot, mold, mildew, and bugs. Manufacturing methods like molding or extrusion allow plastic to be shaped into nearly any style.
Plastic outdoor furniture comes in many forms:
- Polyethylene (PE) – Extremely durable, flexible plastic resistant to UV rays, moisture, stains. Affordable but can appear “cheap”.
- Polypropylene (PP) – Lightweight but very sturdy. Withstands weathering better than PE. Easy to clean.
- HDPE – High-density polyethylene. Used for quality outdoor furniture. Durable, attractive resin won’t deform.
- PVC – Polyvinyl chloride pipe used for strap-based patio furniture. Won’t warp or crack but can get brittle.
- Acrylic – PMMA plastic used for glass-look outdoor furniture. Transparent, shatter-resistant.
The Advantages of Plastic Outdoor Furniture
- Extremely affordable, especially basic PE sets
- Does not crack, peel, splinter, or require painting
- Highly weather and pest/rot resistant
- Easy to clean by simply hosing off
- Durable and low maintenance
- Moldable into countless shapes and styles
- Won’t rust like many metals
The Disadvantages of Plastic Outdoor Furniture
- Lower-quality plastic lacks sturdiness and looks “cheap”
- Not as comfortable as cushier materials like wood
- Can potentially degrade and discolor over time when exposed to sun
- Not naturally pleasing to the eye
- Can absorb heat and get hot in direct sunlight
- PVC strapping may sag over time
Opt for thicker, high-density polyethylene or polypropylene outdoor furniture sets for better longevity. Look for stable tubing in a minimum 1.5” diameter if choosing strap PVC sets. Use outdoor cushions to enhance comfort. Bring plastic pieces indoors or cover when not in use to extend their lifespan. With proper expectations, plastic makes an inexpensive, fuss-free outdoor furniture option.
What’s the Best Material for Outdoor Furniture?
So what’s the best choice for outdoor patio furniture? Unfortunately, there is no universally “perfect” material. The right material depends on your priorities:
Wood is best for beauty, style, and comfort. It brings warmth and timeless sophistication to outdoor living spaces. Choose wood if aesthetics and coziness are paramount, you like doing periodic maintenance, and cost is no concern.
Metal is ideal for sheer strength and durability. It’s built to withstand the elements year after year. Metal makes sense if you want sturdy, supportive furniture with minimal upkeep. It works well poolside where there’s frequent water exposure.
Wicker creates a breezy, relaxed vibe. It’s affordable, low-maintenance, and stores easily. Choose wicker if you want a casual look that’s easy to maintain. Just be prepared to replace it every few years.
Plastic is perfect for affordability and practicality. It’s great for families with kids and pets thanks to its durability and wipe-clean ease. Select plastic if budget and low maintenance are your top concerns.
There are also sustainable eco-friendly options like recycled HDPE plastic made from milk jugs or driftwood. In the end, assess your priorities and match them to the appropriate qualities of each material. An informed decision will help ensure your patio furniture withstands the elements while matching your style.
Tips for Extending the Life of Your Outdoor Furniture
Whichever material you select, there are simple ways to keep your outdoor furniture looking its best season after season:
- Scrutinize the Frame – Ensure the frame foundation is solid, sturdy, and resistant to rust/corrosion. This will prevent structural failing.
- Check Construction Quality – Examine joints, connectors, and moving parts for tight and reinforced construction. Loose joints will quickly deteriorate outdoors.
- Inspect Materials – Peek under cushions and get familiar with furniture materials. Understanding their vulnerabilities will guide your maintenance approach.
- Apply Protective Coatings – Seal porous materials like wood; paint or powder-coat metal parts vulnerable to rust. Reapply as directed.
- Provide Proper Drainage – Arrange furniture on a slope so rain drains off instead of pooling. Allow air circulation under furniture.
- Use Furniture Covers – Use weather-resistant covers when pieces aren’t in use. This will protect from UV rays, dirt, pollution, and pests.
- Clean Regularly – Wash down furniture to remove pollen, bird droppings, sap, dirt, and grime before they become stubborn stains.
- Deep Clean Annually – Do a thorough deep cleaning of furniture at least once per year—or more if needed. Involve disinfectants to kill mold and mildew.
- Stow Cushions – Remove cushions/pillows when not in use and store indoors to prevent fast wear and weather damage.
- Treat Spills and Stains Promptly – Clean up food, grease, or chemical stains ASAP so they don’t have time to set and soak in.
With thoughtful material selection and proper routine care, your outdoor furniture can stay beautiful and functional for many years of parties, dinners, and relaxing conversations on the patio. Follow these tips and enjoy your outdoor living space for seasons to come!
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Furniture Materials
What is the most weather resistant outdoor furniture?
Metal and plastic are the most weather resistant outdoor furniture materials. Powder-coated aluminum can withstand all kinds of sun, wind, rain, and snow without rusting or corroding. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic is also highly durable and impervious to moisture.
What type of outdoor furniture lasts the longest?
High-quality hardwood furniture like teak, eucalyptus, shorea, and lauan with properly applied protective finishes will last 30+ years outdoors. Wrought iron, aluminum, stainless steel, and HDPE plastic furniture are also very long-lasting options, each lasting 15-25+ years with proper care and maintenance.
What material holds up best to sun?
Synthetic wicker made from UV-resistant all-weather resin weave holds up very well in sun exposure without cracking or fading. HDPE and polypropylene plastic are also highly sun-resistant. Aluminum, stainless steel, and teak wood also fair well in sun when properly sealed and cared for.
Is acrylic or polycarbonate better for outdoor furniture?
Polycarbonate is generally better. It’s more flexible and impact-resistant. Acrylic can become brittle and crack if not reinforced properly. Both scratch easily. For best durability, look for co-extruded polycarbonate with a UV and scratch-resistant surface coating.
What kind of wood is best for outdoor furniture?
Teak is generally considered the best wood for outdoor furniture thanks to its dense structure, rich oils, and natural weather resistance. Cedar, redwood, cypress, shorea, and ipe also make great outdoor wood options due to their durability, natural oils, and pest-resistance.
Is eucalyptus or acacia better for outdoor use?
Eucalyptus is better. Its dense grain and oil content allow it to resist weathering and insects well. Acacia wood often splits, cracks, and shows early signs of wear unless vigilantly sealed and maintained. Eucalyptus also costs less while offering more attractive grain patterns.
What is the most comfortable outdoor furniture material?
Wood is generally the most comfortable outdoor furniture material. Naturally cushioning and ergonomic, wood conforms to the body’s curves and has a warm, inviting feel. Wicker and mesh are also comfortable and allow airflow to keep you cooler. Add plush cushions to any material for extra comfort.
Which material is easiest to clean – wood, metal, wicker or plastic?
Plastic is by far the easiest outdoor furniture material to clean. You can simply hose off dirt and stains from plastic, even tougher ones like mold, mildew, grease, and wine. Wicker is also fairly easy to clean with spray-downs. Wood and metal require more hands-on cleaning and maintenance for best results.
Which is better – powder coated or painted metal outdoor furniture?
Powder coated is better for outdoor use. The powder coating process electrostatically fuses pigment onto the metal, creating a more corrosion-resistant, chip-resistant finish than regular paint. Powder coating holds up better against sun, water, salt air, and abrasions over the long run.
Conclusion
The ideal outdoor furniture material comes down to your priorities for style, budget, durability, and maintenance. When chosen wisely and cared for properly, wood, metal, wicker, and plastic outdoor furniture can all serve you well for many seasons of alfresco living. Consider how you