When selecting patio furniture, it’s essential to know which materials can withstand both elements and everyday use. Depending on your goals for the space, durable yet budget-conscious options could be ideal; or something versatile enough to meet all needs can serve double duty in various spaces.
Plastic has become a favorite material in outdoor furniture design, offering solutions such as high-density polyethylene, polypropylene and acrylic that resist mildew, mold and saltwater build-up.
Wood
No matter if your patio is used as a quiet sanctuary or lively gathering spot, selecting furniture made of appropriate material will elevate and transform its character. There are various materials to consider for outdoor furniture investments; each has their own set of advantages and disadvantages which should be carefully evaluated prior to making such a significant financial commitment.
Wood furniture is an attractive and reliable choice for patio seating, providing warmth and comfort while remaining visually pleasing. Wood is naturally resistant to insects and rot; however, regular maintenance must be undertaken in order to keep its condition in top shape. However, wood should not be exposed to too much direct sun or rain as its absorbent nature means it may become warped or swell over time.
Metal patio furniture is another popular material due to its strength and durability, offering resistance against rusting and corrosion while being subject to scratches or dents. Aluminum is usually the go-to metal choice due to its lightweight qualities that resist corrosion; steel pieces may also be found. When selecting metal pieces, galvanized or stainless steel should always be preferred over regular carbon steel; the latter rusts more readily.
Plastic furniture is another versatile and popular option for outdoor seating, offering a range of color and design choices. Molded plastics like high-density polyethylene and polypropylene offer protection from weathering, UV rays and heat damage while still offering an appealing finish; acrylic is less durable but may offer clear aesthetic.
Synthetic resin furniture is another popular and affordable choice for outdoor spaces, offering similar visual qualities as wicker. It is easy to clean and stain-resistant; however, its durability cannot compare with that of natural wicker or teak furniture.
Teak wood is an expensive and stunningly beautiful material that naturally resists weather and insects; additional advantages include being insect and rot-resistant. Though its patina may fade over time, with regular oil treatments it can still look its best!
Metal
If your balcony or patio already features wood furniture, consider metal as an alternative material. Metal’s durability means it can withstand moisture without succumbing to rusting; plus its easy care makes it perfect for outdoor furniture. When purchasing metal chairs and couches for use outdoors make sure they have been chemically treated to combat mold or mildew growth or made using weatherproof materials like resin for maximum weatherproofness.
Aluminum furniture is another popular choice for outdoor patio seating, being both lightweight and rust resistant – two features that make it suitable for any aesthetic. However, aluminum may be susceptible to scratches and dents over time so regular touch ups may be necessary.
Concrete furniture adds an earthy, modern vibe to patio settings. Ideal for dining tables and coffee tables, concrete is also popularly used to construct chairs – however chairs made of this material tend to be uncomfortable due to being porous – making them susceptible to staining from liquids or acidic substances that come in contact with it.
Plastic outdoor furniture is an economical and eco-friendly solution, often constructed out of recycled milk jugs or soda bottles. While its durability allows it to withstand direct sunlight exposure, cracking may occur over time and it isn’t as breathable.
Polypropylene, or simply “poly,” is an eco-friendly thermoplastic polymer material with excellent fade-resistance and weather resistance that doesn’t need a finish to protect it. Furthermore, its bleach-cleanability enables you to easily get rid of stains or other marks.
Synthetic Resin
There is a wide range of materials to select when it comes to patio furniture materials, depending on your personal taste and the layout of your outdoor space. Metal might suit modern settings better while wooden pieces may create more classic vibes. When considering materials resistant to moisture and sun damage in an outdoor space such as your backyard.
Synthetic resin materials make great patio furniture choices, often due to being easy to maintain and withstand various climate conditions. Furthermore, these durable resin pieces are often more affordable and eco-friendly than their wood counterparts. Synthetic resin can even be woven to form wicker pieces or transformed into plastic that emulates natural rattan for an authentic classic look – be sure to purchase High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) wicker instead of PVC versions as it will outlive both options in terms of durability.
Recycled plastic furniture is another popular option for outdoor patio use, offering great resistance against mildew, moisture and UV exposure. Although less stylish than wood or wrought iron options, recycled plastic may be suitable for those seeking minimalist aesthetics.
Wrought iron patio furniture is another popular choice, due to its robust nature and ability to be handcrafted into intricate designs. However, its weight can make it cumbersome and it may develop rust spots without proper care being taken – not an ideal solution in areas with high salt levels in the air.
Concrete can add a modern edge to your patio design, being stain and abrasion-resistant as well as heavy and cold. Although not the optimal choice for seating arrangements, concrete works great as tables.
If you prefer natural materials, teak may be the answer. Not only is it hardy and beautiful, but its low maintenance costs also make it great choice for environmentalists as no oils are necessary to maintain its appearance; as time passes it will naturally age to an attractive grayish-brown tone that many find pleasing.
Teak
No matter if it is a casual rattan and wicker lounge set or more formal wood and metal dining room table, selecting the appropriate material makes all the difference in terms of its look, durability and style. Your patio furniture must stand up against Calgary’s unpredictable climate as well as function according to your personal needs and taste. Choosing a material will determine how often it is used as well as which style and functionality you prefer.
Teak wood stands out among other wood options by not warping or becoming brittle when exposed to moisture, and isn’t susceptible to rot, making it an extremely durable and long-term option for your patio. Plus, thanks to its unique oil, which provides natural protection that doesn’t need preservatives or treatments; teak will continue looking attractive even under harsh weather conditions such as high winds and rain!
Your teak furniture requires regular maintenance in order to remain looking its best, such as re-oiling it once every year to keep its appearance looking new. Many choose linseed or tung oil from their local hardware store; however, commercial teak oil typically contains a blend of these oils with varnish thinners and other additives that makes up its makeup.
Ipe wood has long been used for patio furniture due to its dense nature from South America. While teak accomplishes all its desired goals, ipe stands out by being more beautiful, having an increased fire rating rating, and more affordable.
Wrought iron was once a go-to option for patio furniture, but has since been overtaken by aluminum and steel options that are more resistant to rusting and corrosion. Aluminum and steel options also allow for easier relocation – perfect for those who like rearranging their outdoor furnishings often!
While concrete may not be the top choice for everyone, it can still make for a striking and practical patio surface. Unfortunately, its weight makes it unsuitable for seating like chairs or couches and its porous nature leaves it susceptible to staining from spills or moisture damage.
