Are you looking for a reason to spend more time at home? Consider setting up space for outdoor furniture.

Here is a sneak peek of the benefits it accords you

  • It offers a space to relax
  • You can host hundreds of guests with outdoor furniture
  • It can act as working out place
  • It allows watching your children play in the compound

Since outdoor furniture has to endure different weather conditions outside, it is essential to choose the best material quality. As you do this, take into consideration that there is no 100% perfect furniture.

Regardless of this, there is a big difference based on the material used to make the furniture. Some of the critical things to consider when shopping for outdoor furniture include price, maintenance cost, eco-friendliness, and durability.

Take a look at the below discussion based on the durability of the different materials used in making outdoor furniture.

Metal

It is the most robust and most durable material for outdoor furniture. Usage of metal allows for the molding of furniture into any shape, something made possible by its strength.

There are various types of metals used in the manufacturing of outdoor furniture.

Aluminum

This is the most commonly used metal in the manufacturing of outdoor furniture. It offers many advantages, such as being light in weight, durable, and firm. It’s also possible to corner it into different shapes.

Moreover, aluminum is affordable and requires minimum maintenance. With this material, you are safe from rusting troubles as this material does not rust.

You are, however, at a disadvantage and cannot have outdoor furniture made of aluminum if you reside in areas prone to high wind. Take note also that it is prone to heat and, as such, have your seats covered in cushions.

Stainless Steel

It can endure extreme temperatures better than most metals, something that makes it ideal for many users. Moreover, it has a high density that protects it against damage resulting from frequent usage. Because of its strength, stainless steel is suitable for making large outdoor dining tables and sofas.

It will serve you right if you are looking for outdoor furniture with contemporary features. Moreover, it’s easy to clean and does not rust. Lastly, it’s environmentally friendly and made from recycled metals.

Stainless steel metal also has some shortcomings, such as being relatively expensive and heat sensitive.

Wrought Iron

Opting for furniture made from this material will leave you with the most rotund and most lasting outdoor furniture frame. Wrought iron can last for decades. Its heavy nature and high maintenance needs have made most people shy away from it. 

Woods

You are likely to find outdoor furniture made from the following types of wood.

Eucalyptus

It has a beautiful red-orange color that fades over time to a silvery gray. Furniture made from this material can withstand the unfriendly weather elements for decades without damage.

Exposure to moisture will lead to shrinking and swelling of the furniture made of this material. Overcome this by having the material sealed. Moreover, use warm water, soap, and a gentle cloth to clean the furniture.

Cedar and Cypress

Consider this material for your outside furniture if you are the type that loves changing your outdoor space’s position. Cedar and Cypress are light in weight and stainable in almost any color. They are also resistant to insects and rots.

Cedar is susceptible to moisture and cracking.

Teak

It’s considered the best wood for outdoor furniture with the ability to last up to 50 years. Teak can withstand all weather conditions and has a beautiful grained finish.

Another unique feature about teak is its oil and natural resin content that make it resistant to insects. Moreover, being a hardwood makes the surface very strong and resistant to dents.

It’s ideal for outdoor dining tabletops and armrests.

Plastics and Synthetic Resin

 With furniture made from these materials, you will enjoy lightweight, durability in all weather conditions, highly affordable, various colors to choose from, and low maintenance. Moreover, furniture made of these materials does not fade, requires additional finishes, crack or peel.

Synthetic resin furniture is naturally woven in a wicker weave. Make sure to purchase high-density polyethylene wicker for the best experience.

Lastly, be on the lookout for strong winds that can sweep furniture made of these materials away. To counter the currents have the furniture stacked up and stored safely before the winds.

The Verdict

How long outdoor furniture serves you depends on how well you take care of it rather than the material used in making it. As such, make sure to employ care tips in handling your furniture.

First, always make sure to cover the furniture with patio covers when not in use. Secondly, have the furniture kept in a shed during the offseason if possible, and lastly, always opt for light-colored furniture as they don’t absorb a lot of heat.