May 2, 2025

What is the Best Material for Outdoor Furniture?

Rain, shine, or surprise BBQ—outdoor furniture needs to handle it all.
Teak, aluminium, and resin wicker top the list for durability, style, and low-fuss upkeep.
Want your garden to impress like our Corner Sofas Collection? Keep reading to discover which material suits your space, budget, and British weather best.

Understanding the Key Considerations When Choosing Outdoor Furniture Material

Climate and Weather Conditions in Your Location

Britain’s weather is famously unpredictable. You can have blazing sunshine, a cheeky breeze, and a torrential downpour—all before your morning tea cools.

That’s why material choice matters.

Impact of Rain and Humidity

Let’s be honest—rain is practically a national pastime.
Materials like teak, HDPE, and resin wicker don’t mind getting caught in a downpour.
Teak naturally repels water, while synthetic wicker and recycled plastics stay sturdy and don’t warp.

If your garden turns swampy after a drizzle, these are the mates you want.

Effects of Sun and UV Exposure

When the sun finally puts its hat on, your furniture better keep its cool.
Aluminium, HDPE, and resin wicker with UV-resistant finishes won’t crack or fade.
Teak mellows into a stylish silver, giving your patio that chic, weathered look.
And cushions with UV-protected fabric keep their colour punchy, not patchy.

Challenges of Coastal Environments

If you live by the sea, salty air comes as part of the package deal.
But it’s no friend to furniture. Aluminium, HDPE, and teak all stand up to sea breezes without rusting.
For serious seaside strength, marine-grade stainless steel is another solid bet.

Dealing with Wind and Storms

If your garden often feels like a wind tunnel, lighter furniture will be off across the lawn before you can shout “catch it!”.
Wrought iron, concrete, stone, and teak are heavyweight champions that won’t budge easily.

Or go smart—choose modular pieces you can shuffle to sheltered spots before the next blowout.

Your Budget and Long-Term Investment

Think of outdoor furniture like a trusty pair of boots—you get what you pay for.
Teak and stainless steel ask for more up front but repay you over decades.
For tighter wallets, resin wicker and HDPE stretch your pounds with minimal faff.

Pick what suits your garden dreams and your purse.

Desired Style and Aesthetic

Your outdoor space deserves furniture that feels as stylish as your lounge.
Teak oozes timeless elegance, aluminium screams sleek and modern, and resin wicker brings casual charm.

Want something bold and architectural? Concrete or stone could be your ticket.

Maintenance Requirements and Effort

Weekend warrior or weekend relaxer?
If scrubbing isn’t your thing, HDPE, aluminium, and resin wicker are low-maintenance legends—just a quick wipe and you’re sorted.

Teak asks for a little oiling if you want to keep that honey-gold glow.
Wrought iron demands an occasional rust check.

Comfort and Ergonomics

If you’re hosting long lunches or lazy afternoons, comfort is non-negotiable.
Resin wicker and teak often come shaped for proper lounging, while metal frames (like aluminium or iron) beg for some plush cushions.

Tip: Go for quick-dry foam cushions, so a light shower doesn’t dampen your plans.

The Top Contenders for Best Outdoor Furniture Materials: Pros and Cons

Teak: The Gold Standard for Longevity and Beauty

Pros

Lasts decades
Water and weather-resistant
Weathers to elegant silver

Cons

Pricey
Needs oiling if golden look is preferred
Heavy to shift

Aluminium: Lightweight, Rust-Proof, and Versatile

Pros

Rust-resistant
Lightweight and stylish
Easy to clean

Cons

Heats up in sun
Cushions needed for comfort
Can blow over if windy

Stainless Steel: Strong, Modern, and Corrosion-Resistant

Pros

Sleek, modern finish
Very strong
Great for coastal spots

Cons

Gets hot
Can be pricey
Heavy

Synthetic Wicker (Resin Wicker): Durable Style for All Seasons

Pros

All-weather friendly
UV resistant
Easy to clean

Cons

Cheap versions crack
Less natural look

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Lumber: Eco-Friendly and Low-Maintenance

Pros

Tough as nails
Water and UV-resistant
Often recycled

Cons

Fewer style options
Less “premium” feel

Other Durable Outdoor Furniture Material Options

Wrought Iron: Sturdy and Traditional

Pros

Very stable
Vintage charm

Cons

Can rust
Heavy
Heats up or chills fast

Concrete and Stone: Permanent and Minimal Upkeep

Pros

Built like a tank
No fuss, low maintenance

Cons

Incredibly heavy
Tricky to move
Chunky aesthetic

Making the Right Choice: Matching Material to Your Specific Needs

Best Materials for Humid Climates

Teak, HDPE, resin wicker — beat the British drizzle.

Best Materials for Sunny and Hot Climates

Aluminium, resin wicker, teak — keep their cool and colour.

Best Materials for Coastal Areas

Teak, aluminium, marine-grade stainless steel, HDPE — fight salt air.

Best Materials for Windy Locations

Wrought iron, teak, concrete — stay put in a gale.

Best Low-Maintenance Options

HDPE, aluminium, resin wicker — easy life, easy clean.

Best Budget-Friendly Durable Options

HDPE, resin wicker — wallet-friendly and long-lasting.

Conclusion: Weighing the Options for Your Perfect Outdoor Furniture Material

Choosing the right outdoor furniture is a bit like matchmaking—you want something that looks great, sticks around, and doesn’t throw tantrums in bad weather.

Teak, aluminium, and resin wicker top the list for balancing beauty, durability, and low maintenance.
Pick what fits your garden, budget, and lifestyle—and your space will be as inviting as our Corner Sofas Collection, whatever the skies decide.

Other articles our customers have found useful:

Previous article The Best Outdoor Furniture for Longevity: What Lasts the Longest?