Selecting outdoor furniture can be an investment. You want pieces that are made of quality materials, can withstand the elements, and will last for years. When shopping for outdoor furniture, it pays to do some research on which options are the most durable and long-lasting. This guide covers the outdoor furniture materials that stand up best over time and provide the longest lifespan.
Outdoor Furniture Materials to Look For
Teak
Teak is often noted as the “gold standard” when it comes to durable outdoor furniture. Teak is a tropical hardwood that has natural oils, a tight grain, and density that help the wood stand up to sun, rain, snow and fluctuating temperatures. Outdoor teak furniture may require periodic cleaning and sealing, but can often last 50+ years with proper care. While teak carries a higher price tag, its exceptional longevity and resilience make it a sound long-term investment. Brands like Gloster and Kingsley-Bate offer premium teak outdoor furniture.
Synthetic Rattan
Synthetic rattan, also referred to as “all-weather wicker”, is having a moment as a versatile, weather-resistant outdoor furniture material. Synthetic rattan is made from manmade fibers like polyethylene that are specially formulated to withstand UV rays, mold, mildew, salt spray and other outdoor conditions. Rehau and Viro fibers are two leading all-weather wicker brands. Unlike natural wicker, synthetic rattan will not crack or peel, and it can be easily cleaned with soap and water. With its textured look and feel, synthetic rattan marries the aesthetic appeal of natural rattan with superior durability.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a lightweight but remarkably strong metal that offers durability and low maintenance for outdoor furniture. Properly treated aluminum can hold up to harsh weather and resist rusting, chipping, peeling or fading. Brands like O.W. Lee use marine grade, powder-coated aluminum that is reinforced with welded construction. Aluminum outdoor furniture is also easy to clean and move. While colors can scratch off over time, quality aluminum provides longevity at an affordable price point.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is inherently corrosion-resistant thanks to its chromium content. This allows stainless steel outdoor furniture to remain intact through sun, snow and rain exposure over time. Stainless steel is also easy to keep clean. Because it doesn’t rust, maintenance is simply wiping down the furniture as needed. Like aluminum, stainless steel can scratch. However, its anti-corrosive properties make it extremely durable for outdoor conditions. Brands like Woodard are known for their high-quality stainless steel patio furniture.
Cast Aluminum
Cast aluminum refers to solid aluminum that is cast from a mold rather than welded aluminum tubing. The production process gives cast aluminum a porous quality that accepts protective powder coating exceptionally well. This allows cast aluminum outdoor furniture to better resist chipping, peeling and rusting. Cast aluminum is also heavier and provides more stability in windy patio conditions. Hanamint and Meadowcraft offer cast aluminum outdoor collections with timeless designs.
Marine Grade Polywood
Polywood is a proprietary mix of recycled plastics like milk jugs and detergent bottles with an added UV inhibitor. The materials are scientifically formulated to withstand exposure to salt spray, pool chemicals, sun and moisture. Polywood has the look of painted wood but doesn’t require any staining, sealing or repainting. While it can fade to some degree over time, polywood is resistant to permanent stains, cracks, splinters and other damage. Trex and Polywood brand furniture exemplify durable polywood outdoor furniture.
PVC Outdoor Wicker
Outdoor wicker furniture has traditionally been made from natural materials like rattan, willow and banana leaf that eventually crack and disintegrate. Today’s PVC wicker is made from all-weather vinyl polymers that mimic the look of classic wicker while withstanding UV rays, moisture and mildew. Resin wicker can lose some color over time but won’t peel, crack or grow mildew. With just occasional cleaning, PVC wicker is extremely low maintenance and built to be outdoors year-round. Lakeview Outdoor Designs makes stylish PVC wicker outdoor furniture.
Tips for Longest Lasting Outdoor Furniture
- Opt for solid wood rather than wood composites, which can swell and crack over time. Teak, cedar, redwood and cypress are naturally resilient.
- Look for powder coated, galvanized or stainless steel hardware. Corrosion-resistant hardware ensures the structure remains intact.
- Seek out integrated, hidden or stainless steel joinery for clean assembly and longevity. Exposed hardware can loosen and corrode.
- Choose welded aluminum or wrought iron frames for the strongest durability. Avoid hollow tubing.
- Search for fade-resistant, solution-dyed fabrics. Acrylic, olefin and spun polyester have built-in UV protection.
- Select deep seated, firmly woven cushions that won’t flatten or sag quickly. High density foam keeps its shape.
- Look for removable, washable cushion and pillow covers. Being able to launder cushions prolongs their usability.
- Consider weatherproof finishes like powder coating, anodizing and galvanizing that prevent rust and corrosion.
- Choose furniture with drainage holes so water doesn’t pool and cause damage.
- Select brands that construct furniture to withstand the elements and back it with warranties.
Outdoor Furniture That Lasts 20-30 Years
These premium outdoor furniture brands combine quality materials and construction to offer products with exceptional longevity. With proper maintenance, their pieces can offer 20-30 years of enjoyment.
Brown Jordan
With an 80+ year legacy of quality craftsmanship, Brown Jordan uses the finest marine grade aluminum, steel and synthetic rattan to endure outdoor use. Their contemporary designs are also timeless. Provided it’s well cared for, Brown Jordan furniture will endure decades in outdoor environments.
OW Lee
From their powder coated aluminum to premium teak, OW Lee uses only high-grade materials engineered for outdoor longevity. Their welded aluminum frames are exceptionally strong. Plus, OW Lee offers a limited lifetime warranty against defects. Their investment-worthy furniture will grace patios for 20-30 years and beyond.
Woodard
Known for ornate designs built to last, Woodard uses marine grade aluminum reinforced with thick-gauged steel. Their powder coating process adds exceptional fade and rust resistance. With proper maintenance, Woodard’s handcrafted furniture passes the test of time for 20-30 years of enjoyment.
Winston
Blending modern lines with classic wicker motifs, Winston makes heirloom-quality outdoor furniture meant to get better with age. They use FiberCore, an all-weather wicker impervious to cracking and peeling. With occasional maintenance, Winston’s generously proportioned pieces provide 20-30 years of elegant outdoor living.
Kingsley-Bate
As leaders in teak furnishings, Kingsley-Bate crafts their collections with premium aged teak and marine grade stainless steel hardware. Their mortise and tenon joinery ensures sturdiness. Properly cared for, Kingsley Bate’s timeless teak furniture will serve households across generations.
Westminster Teak
Teak naturally repels sun, rain, snow and salt spray thanks to its high oil content. Westminster Teak also reinforces teak’s longevity by using the finest boatbuilding techniques. Their furniture stays remarkably stable and weather-resistant for 20-30 years of classic style.
Gloster
Renowned for high quality teak and rattan furnishings, Gloster creates collections to cherish for decades. They use the finest marine grade stainless steel and woven bases impervious to outdoor conditions. Gloster’s tables, chairs and loungers maintain their integrity and elegance for generations.
Outdoor Furniture That Lasts 10+ Years
While not as indestructible as pricier counterparts, these affordable lines offer quality materials and construction for 10+ years of outdoor use.
IKEA ÄPPLARÖ
IKEA’s Acacia wood ÄPPLARÖ series offers natural texture that’s built to live outdoors. Treated with water repellent oil, the FSC-certified acacia resists moisture damage. The 10-year limited warranty confirms this line’s decade-worthy durability.
Harmonia Living Element
Constructed from recycled HDPE polymers, Harmonia Living’s Element collection mimics wicker’s look in a maintenance-free material. Mold, mildew and UV resistant, these all-weather pieces promise over a decade of zero upkeep outdoor living.
Oxford Garden Travira
Made from light but strong powder coated aluminum, Travira by Oxford Garden feels substantial yet effortless to arrange. The corrosion-resistant frames promise a decade or more of outdoor enjoyment.
Polywood Classic Adirondack
A perennial favorite, Polywood’s recycled HDPE polymer Adirondack collection maintains its color and structure through harsh weather, year after year. Made in the USA, Polywood will warrant their timeless Adirondacks for up to 20 years.
Hanover Monaco
Offering the deepest seating and thickest cushions in outdoor furniture, Hanover builds their stackable Monaco collection to last over a decade. Fade resistant and easy to clean, these comfortable pieces deliver enduring patio style.
Homecrest Origins
From porch swings to rockers, Homecrest’s Origins line blends classic silhouettes with quality construction from sustainably sourced eucalyptus. Treated to endure rain and sun, Origins promises heritage style for years to come.
How to Make Your Outdoor Furniture Last
To get the most longevity out of your outdoor furniture — whether it’s 10+ years or 20-30 years — be diligent about the following care and maintenance steps:
Weatherproof Often
Teak oil, penetrating stains, waterproof sealants and marine varnishes protect wood and extend its lifespan. Reapply as directed, usually every 1-2 years.
Deep Clean Annually
A thorough deep cleaning of frames, fabrics and cushion covers removes accumulated dirt and debris that can degrade materials over time.
Check Hardware
Ensure screws, nuts and bolts are tightened so joints don’t become loose and unstable. Stainless steel hardware resists rust.
Cover Pieces
Using outdoor furniture covers, a patio awning or an enclosed porch helps shield pieces from constant sun and moisture when not in use.
Store Cushions
Take cushion covers off and store the cushion inserts indoors over winter and during wet weather to prevent mildew and rotting.
Follow Care Guides
Review and adhere to the manufacturer’s specific maintenance instructions for cleaning, protecting and storing each piece.
Repair Immediately
Promptly fix nicks, scratches, broken wicker and other minor damage so it doesn’t escalate into bigger problems.
FAQs
What outdoor furniture lasts the longest?
Teak, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), powder-coated aluminum and handwoven synthetic wicker generally last the longest outdoors. Brands like O.W. Lee, Woodard, Winston and Gloster are known for making durable, long-lasting outdoor furniture.
How long does wicker furniture last outside?
It depends on the material. Natural wicker lasts 1-3 years before cracking and disintegrating. All-weather resin wicker lasts 4-7 years. Fiberglass wicker lasts 6-10 years. Synthetic wicker made with Viro or Rehau fibers will last 10+ years outdoors.
Does aluminum patio furniture last?
Yes, aluminum is one of the most durable and long-lasting metals for outdoor furniture. Marine grade, powder-coated aluminum that uses stainless steel hardware can readily last over a decade with proper maintenance. Welded aluminum frames are stronger than hollow aluminum tubing.
How long do teak outdoor furniture last?
When properly cared for, teak furniture can easily last 30-50 years and even pass through generations. Teak naturally resists moisture, pests, sun exposure and other elements. With periodic sealing, high-end teak may outlive less expensive competing outdoor furniture.
Is IKEA outdoor furniture good quality?
Several IKEA outdoor collections like ÄPPLARÖ acacia wood offer decent quality and durability for the price. Made from weather-resistant materials, IKEA’s outdoor furniture generally lasts over 5+ years with care and maintenance. More expensive lines last longer.
Is it worth paying more for outdoor furniture?
Paying more often means investing in better quality materials like teak, aluminum, wrought iron and all-weather wicker as well as finely crafted construction. Premium outdoor furniture typically outlasts budget options by years. If longevity is key, spending more upfront on durable outdoor furniture is usually worth it.
The Takeaway
Outdoor furniture made from quality materials like teak, marine grade aluminum and all-weather wicker will provide the most years of enjoyment. Look for durable construction and weather-resistant finishes. Maintain your outdoor furniture well. And choose patio furniture from reputable brands known for making products that stand the test of time. The right pieces cared for properly can serve you season after season for decades to come.