What are the main materials for outdoor furniture, and what are their pros and cons?

The material of outdoor furniture directly determines its durability, appearance, and maintenance cost. It can be mainly categorized into the following types:

Metal

• Aluminum/Aluminum Alloy: The most popular and recommended choice. Advantages: lightweight, rust-resistant, durable, and easy to move. It can be divided into cast aluminum (heavy and classic) and aircraft-grade aluminum (modern and lightweight). It is advisable to choose a powder-coated surface for enhanced corrosion resistance.

• Stainless Steel: Particularly grades 304 or 316 stainless steel, which offer excellent rust resistance, making them suitable for high-humidity coastal areas. The style is modern, but the price is higher.

• Cast Iron: Very heavy and stable, with a retro and luxurious appearance, but prone to rust. It requires frequent paint maintenance and is difficult to move.

Wood

• Hardwood (Teak, Balau, Eucalyptus): Teak is the king of outdoor woods. It contains natural oils, making it resistant to decay and insects, and durable for decades. Over time, it weathers to a silvery-gray color. It is expensive. Other hardwoods are less performant and require regular oiling for maintenance.

• Softwood (Pine, etc.): Can be used for outdoor furniture after preservative treatment (such as ACQ or CCA). It is affordable, but its durability is average, prone to cracking and warping, and requires careful maintenance.

Synthetic Materials

• PE Rattan (Resin Wicker): Artificial wicker that mimics the appearance of natural rattan. Advantages: waterproof, sun-resistant, does not crack or fade easily, and is easy to clean. It is the preferred material for woven furniture and suitable for all climates.

• Plastic/Composite Lumber (WPC): Low-cost, lightweight, and available in various colors. However, prolonged exposure to sunlight may cause it to become brittle and fade, and it has a less premium texture. Wood-plastic composite requires no maintenance but often looks like plastic.

Fabrics (for Cushions and Pillows)

• Solution-Dyed Acrylic Fabric: Brands such as Sunbrella and Outdura. This is the top-tier choice, offering extremely high colorfastness, waterproofing, mildew resistance, and UV resistance. It is durable for 5–10 years or more.

• Polyester Canvas: Cost-effective with good water resistance, but it may fade under prolonged sun exposure.

• Regular Cotton/Linen: Comfortable but highly susceptible to moisture and mildew, making it suitable only for temporary use or in sunrooms.