Like indoor furniture, finding the right outdoor furniture can breathe new life into your space, yet when choosing outdoor furniture, there are multiple elements to consider when finding the right pieces.
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Read on to learn more about choosing the best material for outdoor furniture that is right for you and your style, whether you have a large backyard or a small outdoor space.
Unlike when shopping for indoor furniture that you can assume will stay mostly dry and warm when it gets into your home, there's more to consider when purchasing outdoor patio furniture. Important considerations include material, durability, versatility, fade resistance, maintenance, and weather resistance.
There are several important things to consider when choosing furniture for your outdoor space:
Moisture and rain: Storms and humidity can wreak havoc on outdoor furniture, so it's important to consider water and moisture resistance when choosing outdoor furniture to help avoid mildew, rot, mold, rust, and changes in shape due to moisture (warping).
Wind: If you live in an area that experiences high winds, it's important to consider this when purchasing furniture for your outdoor space. Ensuring the materials for your outdoor furniture are heavy enough to withstand the wind is one option, and another option is to secure or store the furniture when it's not being used.
Maintenance: Some outdoor furniture materials require more maintenance than others, depending on the material, the amount of use, and the weather to which the material is exposed.
Some materials demand special treatment, time, and effort to maintain, while others are more low maintenance and need only to be cleaned seasonally. It's a good starting point to know how much time you're willing to spend keeping the furniture looking as good as new when you start shopping for the outdoors.
Cost: Investing in outdoor patio furniture can be as costly or inexpensive as your budget allows, so it's important to know your budget from the beginning and to consider how often you'll need to maintain or replace your furniture to help you make the best decision.
Environmentally Conscious: Some outdoor furniture materials are more eco-friendly than others - some are made with recycled plastic, and others are more long-lasting, needing to be replaced less often, thus decreasing waste.
Many brands are also considering the environmental impact of manufacturing and production and have started using materials sourced from responsibly managed forests that are recyclable, biodegradable, and/or certified by sustainable organizations.
Durability: How often you use your outdoor patio furniture and the elements the furniture is exposed to can impact the durability of your patio furniture. Different materials can last years with proper care and maintenance, while others need replacing more often.
Sun and Seasonal Temperatures: Exposure to direct sunlight and extreme changes in seasonal temperatures can cause cracking, heat/cold retention, and fading to many outdoor furniture materials. This is why consideration of storage and covers for protection are key when shopping for outdoor furniture.
Also, it's important to consider the space that you're looking to create with the furniture. If you're looking to create a conversation area, outdoor seating sets that prioritize comfort and big cushions might be just what you need.
If you want to create an outdoor dining area, the patio set you're looking for may include a dining table, other outdoor tables, and cushion covers.
Versatility is also an important consideration when choosing outdoor furniture, and many people opt for outdoor furniture that is easy to rearrange to fit the needs of their gatherings - pairing tables, beverage carts, and comfortable seating to make a space that works.
When buying patio furniture, it is also important to consider storage options that will help protect your new outdoor furniture from the weather conditions of different seasons and extreme temperature changes that take place throughout the year.
There are many styles and types of outdoor furniture materials, including metal furniture, synthetic and plastic furniture, and wooden outdoor furniture. Examples of these include aluminum outdoor furniture, steel outdoor furniture, wrought iron furniture, resin wicker furniture, rattan furniture, teak furniture, and acacia outdoor furniture.
Style options for patio and garden furniture include outdoor dining tables, table sets, bistro sets, chaise lounges, sofa sets, and picnic tables, just to name a few.
Our outdoor picnic table is one of my favorite pieces that never fails to remind us and our guests of many outdoor meals enjoyed while camping, and seems an essential piece for enjoying an outdoor meal. For accessibility and versatility additional chairs and/or high chairs can be pulled up to the heads of the table.
Each type of furniture comes with its own strengths and weaknesses, including high and low maintenance, comfort, and durability so it's important to know what you're looking for when choosing the best outdoor furniture material for you.
It's best to choose outdoor furniture once you have researched and understand what it is you want out of your furniture.
Important things to keep in mind when choosing the outdoor furniture that's right for you are price, comfort, durability, and an understanding of how you want the furniture to work in your space. Some outdoor furniture is more versatile than others, which is another important consideration.
Another key consideration when choosing patio furniture is the maintenance required. Some outdoor materials are extremely durable, while other materials for outdoor furniture can fade or wear if they are not cared for properly.
Ultimately, the best material for your outdoor furniture largely depends on where you live, how you envision using the furniture, and the amount of maintenance and upkeep required.
Listed below are things to consider for the most popular outdoor furniture materials:
Iron is a highly durable material for outdoor furniture. Because it becomes extremely pliable when heated, wrought iron can be shaped and molded into unique and elaborate designs for a classic patio look.
It is strong and heavy, so it can last many years and won't move around in high winds, but the heavy material can make wrought iron more difficult to move around and rearrange.
While wrought iron outdoor furniture can last a very long time, patio furniture of this material can demand maintenance and care to protect from rusting. For this reason, most wrought iron is now made with special finishes to improve weather resistance by sealing the metal from moisture.
From experience, many know that wrought iron is hard and without cushioning, it can be uncomfortable on its own. Typically wrought iron paired with backrests and cushions to improve comfort, which can take up more storage and require more care when the cushions need to be put away or covered.
Additionally, wrought iron can get extremely hot or cold to the touch depending on the climate around them. Most wrought iron outdoor furniture I've seen is used more for outdoor decor (think a seating area in a garden) rather than furniture to be utilized.
My personal favorite, rattan is a popular material for indoor and outdoor furniture. Outdoor rattan furniture is typically made of synthetic polyethylene resin that is more durable than natural rattan and is more low maintenance, especially when using an outdoor cover or patio cover to help protect the wicker-style furniture from the elements. The synthetic material isn't as eco-friendly as natural fiber options but is more quick-drying and easier to maintain.
For outdoor rattan furniture, there are different styles to choose from, including curved weave and flatweave.
Curved weave rattan is harder to clean but tends to last longer as its flexibility makes it more durable. Flatweave rattan is typically lighter, making the furniture more versatile as it's easier to move around, and flatweave is also less expensive.
Since synthetic resin wicker furniture is so popular, it comes in many different shapes and sizes that are sure to meet your needs and offer many choices for cushions and outdoor upholstery styles. Often made with a powder-coated aluminum frame, this furniture is lightweight and easy to move around, but remember, damage to the frames can be costly.
Teak is the most popular choice of wooden furniture options. While aesthetically pleasing with its natural beauty, teak furniture is also strong. Left untreated, the warm color may fade to gray over time, but the durable wood won't crack or break.
The high oil content in the natural materials of teak wood helps it repel water making it more resistant than other wood furniture to damage from decay, bugs, and rot.
If properly cared for and maintained with oil treatments and mild soapy water for cleaning, teak wood furniture can last years in your outdoor space. For this reason, many patio furniture brands carry teak wood materials, which is usually one of the more expensive options.
While plastic materials are not the most environmentally friendly, some recycled plastic furniture can be durable, low maintenance, and more sustainable.
Recycled plastics are easy to clean with mild soap and water and require very little maintenance. This material is also naturally water resistant thanks to its smooth surface.
It is important to note that plastic furniture can be easily blown over in high winds, and recycled plastic can be a more expensive option than others.
Stainless steel on its own is highly likely to rust, so most stainless steel patio furniture is made with a protective powder coating to help make the material more durable.
Powder-coated stainless steel comes in many bright and fun colors and could be just what you're looking for in garden furniture. Stainless steel furniture is often less expensive than other options but can blow around in high winds and is prone to rust if the protective coating is cracked.
This outdoor material is easy to clean, and its protective coating means it can be left out during winter months. That being said, to keep the furniture in its best condition and to last longer, it's a good idea to store it safely away from the elements when patio season is over.
For many types of outdoor furniture, including wooden furniture, wrought iron, and typically rattan, opting for cushions helps make the furniture more comfortable.
It's important to consider the upholstery and ensure it's suitable for outdoor use when shopping for cushions. Some outdoor fabrics are more resistant to moisture, mildew, and fading than others.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of outdoor furniture factory. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
Different materials for outdoor furniture mean different types of treatment, and that's why considering maintenance is so important when choosing the best outdoor furniture materials.
The best treatment for your outdoor furniture is timely and specific to the materials you choose - some require only seasonal cleaning with soap and water as treatment, while others might need special oils or rust protection to keep them well maintained.
In order to ensure your outdoor furniture lasts as long as possible, it's important to protect it from all the elements it will face outside and take care of the furniture when you notice a scratch or imperfection in its surface.
While we may think of outdoor furniture as somewhere to relax while enjoying the summer sun, too much sun can cause damage to even the most durable furniture materials.
While some furniture is more fade-resistant than others, it's not good for any material to be in direct sun for too long. To combat the effects of the sun, consider covering your furniture when it's not in use, setting up your furniture in a location that doesn't receive full sun all day, or investing in an umbrella or patio cover to help keep your patio set shaded.
Few outdoor furniture materials are waterproof, so covering your furniture when it's not being used can help make it last even on the rainiest days.
Too much moisture can allow for mildew growth when the materials get wet and outdoor furniture doesn't have a chance to dry out in a humid summer, which can lead to mold.
For those who live in areas that don't offer patio season all year round, it's important to store and protect your outdoor furniture when it's not in use.
Storing your furniture in a shed or garage or using cushions and furniture covers will keep it from the elements, so you can enjoy your furniture for years to come.
When you start to notice cracks, chips or damage to your outdoor patio furniture, no matter what material it is, it's important to fix any issues before further damage occurs.
Even the best materials will become less rot-resistant, mildew-resistant, and moisture-resistant when any damage occurs to their weather-resistant finishes or powder coating so it's important to maintain your outdoor furniture.
Treating your furniture appropriately (with oils or spot treatment paint) and keeping your furniture clean with mild soap and water will ensure you can soak up every moment in your outdoor space for many seasons.
When it comes down to it, the best choice for outdoor furniture is completely dependent on how you will use the furniture. Personally, my favorite outdoor furniture at home and when visiting friends is the furniture that is the most comfortable and inviting - furniture that makes me want to sit, visit, enjoy a lemonade or two and enjoy the outdoors.
To me, big cushions, and comfy pillows for added support with seating and tables sets that encourage conversation, or offer a comfy space to read a book and soak up the sun are the perfect choices of outdoor furniture.
So go ahead and start your outdoor furniture shopping, and use this list to help you find the best material that is right for you!
Think about the last time you spent a weekend at home. If the sun was shining, you probably spent a few hours (or wanted to) in your backyard, patio, or out on the balcony with your family, friends, or on your own. The right outdoor furniture set can make being outside at home, better. Durable outdoor patio furniture can make your space feel like a getaway: comfortable and clean, and makes a great place to host friends and family when you want to.
To create an outdoor space that feels stress-free and also adds warmth, and curb appeal to the exterior of your home, set a budget and get to know your options when it comes to materials and style. Outdoor furniture will be subject to more wear and tear than any other furniture in your home. You&#;ll need the best materials to be sure your patio set is durable enough to stand up to weather and the elements, and still looks good.
When thinking about durability and outdoor furniture, consider the climate where you live, whether or not your outdoor area is covered, and how long you plan to use and keep the furniture. Investing in high-quality materials like FSC-certified teak means you&#;ll be able to enjoy the style and comfort of your patio furniture for a long time. You should also think about adding a protective cover to your outdoor furniture purchase to keep it looking great for longer.
There are many different materials and types of outdoor furniture that work well and last long. Metal, wicker, and aluminum furniture are all great options. If you're considering adding furniture to your patio, deck, or yard, it's important to know the cost differences and benefits of each material before you make a purchase. Here&#;s our list of the most durable materials for outdoor furniture:
In the furniture industry, solid wood is known for its resilience and durability. Wood outdoor furniture looks cozy and classic and is available in many colors, styles, and finishes. There is nothing more inviting than a wood patio table for summer BBQ&#;s and late night dinners under string lights. Wood furniture can be made from a variety of trees, like teak, acacia, black locust, and cypress and is typically more expensive than other materials. Wood may also require extra care, shade, and coverage to keep in good shape.
The best wood types for outdoor furniture are naturally resistant to mold, rot, and bacteria growth and require very little maintenance. Teak, for example, has natural oils that protect it from rain and humidity which can cause discoloration and warping. Teak is expensive, but it&#;s an investment that will pay off and last for many years with very little maintenance. Make sure you know how to identify real teak wood before you buy. Neighbor outdoor furniture frames, dining tables, and chairs are made of solid Grade A teak from FSC-certified forests. The furniture is suitable for all types of weather and climates and will last a long time. Neighbor teak furniture arrives unfinished and can be sealed or protected from water marks with a teak protectant or tung oil.
If you like the style, sturdiness, and durability of wrought-iron, it&#;s not a bad choice for outdoor furniture as long as you are willing to maintain it. Rain and snow can cause wrought iron to rust and weaken over time. You&#;ll need to add cushions on wrought iron patio furniture for comfort and cover it in bad weather or during the winter.
While not unheard of, Stainless steel outdoor furniture is more common for restaurants and cafe tables than home patio furnishings. Stainless steel is sleek and sophisticated, but can vary in quality and durability. It is inexpensive and long-lasting, but of course, metal furniture won't be as warm and inviting as other materials like wood.
Aluminum furniture resists rust and other harmful elements better than other materials, is lightweight, and low-maintenance. You can clean aluminum outdoor furniture with soap and water to keep it looking good for years. Aluminum is a popular choice for outdoor furniture because it is available in a variety of styles and finishes and can vary in price.
In most cases, plastic is the cheapest outdoor furniture you can buy. Although inexpensive, plastic furniture is fairly durable and can be cleaned easily. Over time, however, it will crack or stain. The longevity of this type of furniture will depend on the weather conditions in your area, so bear this in mind when making your choice on materials. Where style is concerned, plastic furniture isn&#;t our top choice.
If you like the ease of plastic, but want something more durable and stylish, a recycled composite of high-density plastic might be right for your space. High density polyethylene (HDPE) like the genuine POLYWOOD lumber used for Neighbor&#;s Low Chair and Ottoman is sturdy, good-looking, and highly durable. It is high quality and resists corrosion. In fact, POLYWOOD lumber includes a 20-year warranty. The Low Chair is perfect for around a bonfire or on a front porch where you might value durability and stability over more costly materials like wood.
Natural rattan is like bamboo and comes from the fibers of a plant that is similar to a palm tree and grows like a vine. Rattan furniture is a very trendy and inexpensive material for outdoor use, especially for coastal and boho-styled patios. True rattan doesn&#;t do well outdoors and can crack, lose color, and weaken quickly when exposed to rain and sun. Most wicker furniture uses a synthetic rattan that can withstand UV and water exposure. Wicker is not a furniture material, it is a weaving style that is popular for the outdoors.
Resin is a synthetic material sometimes used for outdoor furniture because it is highly durable. It is completely non-porous, so it keeps out rain and rot, and can be left outside under any weather conditions. Resin is usually made of HDPE and can take the place of natural materials like wood or rattan because it lasts longer and is cheaper to make.
A glass table for outdoors has some obvious pros and cons. It can break in a storm, and scratch easily depending on the type of glass. Still, glass outdoor furniture is fairly popular because it&#;s cheap, easy to clean, and looks sophisticated.
A concrete surface is a great choice for outdoors because it is strong, durable, and resists staining. Depending on the style of the furniture, concrete may lack the warmth and comfort of other materials. Concrete is very heavy and hard to move, and can be expensive to purchase and ship.
There are many colors, textures, prints, and brands available for outdoor furniture fabric. The top names like Sunbrella and Cushionguard might be familiar, and are a great choice if you want a generous warranty and a brand you can trust that can stand behind its claims. Here is our roundup of what we found to be the best outdoor-friendly fabrics:
If you&#;re looking for the best fabric for your outdoor furniture, Sunbrella is our top pick. The brand is consistently ranked as one of the most trusted and innovative brands in the industry. All Sunbrella fabric is solution-dyed acrylic and is resistant to stains, mildew and UV light. If you invest in Sunbrella fabric you can leave your furniture outside for a long time without worry.
All Neighbor outdoor furniture uses Sunbrella fabric. Our fabric is fade-proof, stain and water-resistant, and can be machine-washed. They don&#;t feel like your typical outdoor fabrics. Instead, Neighbor outdoor cushions, rugs, and poufs, are soft to touch and textured &#; like something you&#;d find in your living room. Neighbor&#;s Sunbrella fabrics also contain post-industrial recycled content that gives the fabric character and depth.
Cushionguard fabric is similar to Sunbrella in that it is made entirely out of acrylic fibers. The fabric can repel water, stains, and spills and is mildew resistant. Cushionguard fabric is fade-resistant, dries quickly, and is more affordable than Sunbrella, but it doesn&#;t have the same warranty and reputation. For Neighbor outdoor furniture, we use Sunbrella vs. Cushionguard because of the brand&#;s innovation and commitment to sustainability and high-performance.
For a less expensive option than a brand-name manufacturer, Polyester works well for outdoor upholstery because it is easy to clean, resists mold/mildew, and is lightweight. Polyester also resists UV more than other fabrics.
As mentioned in the reasons we love Sunbrella-brand fabrics, solution-dyed acrylic is a highly durable outdoor fabric that will last for a long time and is easy to maintain. Acrylic won&#;t fade and is resistant to mold, mildew, and sun damage.
Olefin is a synthetic fiber that is great for outdoor furniture because it is bleach-cleanable, resists fading, and can be easily cleaned. Stain resistance and durability are a huge benefit if you have pets or children in your home.
Cheaper outdoor furniture cushions are sometimes made using dyed Cotton fabric. Cotton is not water resistant and can lend itself to issues like mold and mildew. It can also change color when overexposed to harsh sunlight.
What goes into your outdoor furniture cushions is just as important as what they&#;re covered with. You want the inside of your outdoor cushions to be firm and comfortable, and also dry quickly after a rain storm. Foam comes in a variety of densities, depending on your preference. At Neighbor we use a special quick-drying foam inside all of our cushions that allows water to pass through. Our quick-drying foam keeps your sofa dry, and prevents mold and mildew buildup.
Polyester fill is soft and comfortable, and can work well for outdoor cushions where the fabric is waterproof. Polyester fill can be made using recycled materials and is hypoallergenic. It is not as durable on its own than other fill materials like foam.
Dacron, or batting as it is sometimes called, is a polyester padding that adds comfort and softness to the inside of your outdoor cushions. Dacron usually covers foam so that the foam doesn&#;t come into contact with the fabric. Dacron will hold it&#;s shape over time but can take a long time to dry.
Durability and longevity are key components of great outdoor furniture. When choosing the right furniture for your outdoor living space, consider the materials, the cost, and how you will care for the furniture. Wood outdoor furniture is stylish and long-lasting, but more expensive than options like Aluminum or Rattan.
You should also consider the environmental impact of the furniture materials you choose. Look for certifications like OEK-TEK, FSC, and materials that are made from recycled content. If you spend a little more money upfront on a great outdoor patio set, it will last longer and won&#;t need to be replaced as quickly.
At Neighbor, we care deeply about our furniture&#;s durability and work with the highest-quality materials we can find. Our outdoor loveseat made with FSC-certified teak is topped with cushions made using Sunbrella acrylic fabric. The Neighbor teak Dining Set highlight the beauty and warmth of our honey-colored teak and can elevate your outdoor space in an instant. Teak is well known to last many years outdoors and is low-maintenance compared to other hardwoods. To add a finishing touch to your backyard, porch, or deck, consider adding a Neighbor Braid Rug or Pouf, made using Sunbrella recycled fabric.
Are you interested in learning more about aluminum outdoor dining set? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!