What should outdoor furniture be made of

However, everything has two sides. On the one hand, most stone patio furniture is bulky and heavy which makes them occupy large spaces and uneasy to move freely; on the other hand, the cost of stone outdoor furniture is a little bit high, too. Here are some concrete merits and demerits of stone outdoor furniture. For outdoor furniture, Aluminum is the most popular metal. It is strong, durable and can easily be transformed into a variety of shapes, despite its lightweight. Aluminum has low maintenance, is relatively inexpensive, and it never rusts.

A polyester powder coating is recommended, although it is highly weather-resistant on its own. This electrostatic process not only increases protection against the elements and scratching, but it also allows you to add color mix. Powder coating adheres better to the metal and is much more resistant to fading, though you can buy painted Aluminum. This is also helpful if your deck or poolside is exposed to salt air, which tends to eat away at the paint and untreated metal.

It's best to have seat cushions to keep you cool and comfortable because, like other metals, Aluminum heats up. If properly cared for, Iron can last a hundred years. Throughout history, it has been used for buildings, furnishings, and tools because of its durability and strength.

It is difficult to move wrought or cast iron furniture because it is among the heaviest of metals and won't blow over in the wind.

Wrought iron is extremely malleable when heated and hammered into shape. This allows it to form ornate hand-crafted designs with an upscale artisan feel.

Cast iron, on the other hand, is heavier and harder to manage than wrought Iron. It can be melted and poured into molds. Outdoor iron tabletops and frames require a lot of care to maintain, clean, and protect against rusting, yet it is long-lasting.

The best contemporary wrought Iron is treated with weather-resistant finishing to seal out damaging moisture. Similarly, the metal gets very hot in summer and cold if left out in the winter, it tends to match the prevailing temperature. Wrought iron outdoor furniture can be uncomfortable without upholstery to cushion the seat and backrests. This is a great material option for large weight-bearing outdoor dining tables, sectionals, and sofas because this sturdy metal alloy is extremely strong.

Its high density helps prevent dents and other damage from frequent use. Stainless steel endures extreme temperatures better than most metals, while it does get hot to the touch when exposed to the summer heat. Especially in coastal areas where water and salt air are present, a powder coating is recommended for added resistance. Its composition makes it virtually immune to corrosion and rust. Comparing different types of stainless steel?

Similarly, the presence of Molybdenum prevents red rust and reduces the depth of surface pitting. Garden and patio furniture made from stainless steel is heavy and will not tip over or blow away under windy conditions. It's a great material choice for high end modern outdoor furniture since its sleek silvery metallic finish has a chic contemporary look.

Though it's expensive, stainless steel is worth every penny. Not only is it relatively easy to clean, but it's often made using recycled metals, making it an environmentally responsible choice. In the world of outdoor furniture, man-made synthetic materials such as resin and plastic, are becoming more prevalent. New manufacturing processes can enable these polymers to take on sizes and shapes previously unattainable. Synthetics can be molded into any decor style imaginable and they are typically lightweight and inexpensive.

They fade resistant and don't require paint or sealants as used by other materials because the color is inherent in the chemical make-up. They are easy to maintain and clean.

The number of plastics and resins is growing but here are a few of the more common ones currently in use. All-Weather Wicker - Synthetic ResinSynthetic polyethylene resin is used to making virtually all outdoor wicker furniture.

A variety of organic sources such as bamboo, rattan, seagrass, banana leaf, and willow are used to make natural wicker. While strong and aesthetically pleasing, plant-based wicker is susceptible to damage from rainy weather, moisture and humidity — a poor material choice for outdoor chairs, sofas, and coffee tables. High-quality resin is eco-friendly, very dense, and resistant to weather damage. High-density polyethylene HDPE is highly puncture-resistant, does not emit any chemicals, and can be exposed to UV rays without experiencing any degradation for decades.

Synthetic all-weather wicker is easy to clean, fade-resistant, lightweight, and also strong. Lower quality synthetic wickers that tend to become brittle and crack over time are made from polyvinyl chloride PVC. To increase the weight it can support, most outdoor wicker patio furniture is constructed over an aluminum frame.

Synthetic wicker can be made virtually indistinguishable from natural wicker by coloring it an organic shade. It can also be given a vibrant tone that adds a pop of color to your hardwood deck and lanai. For stylish outdoor patio furniture, eco-friendly recycled plastic - i. It is resistant to insects, moisture, and mildew, extraordinarily strong, durable, and saltwater.

Though still susceptible to high winds, recycled plastic can be heavier than other plastic materials. It doesn't require much maintenance, crack, or peel. It is easy to clean with soap and water, and stain-resistant. The most common form of plastic used to make deck furniture is Polyethylene PE. High-density version HDPE is required for outdoor applications because it is cost-effective, more durable, and weather resistant.

Polypropylene PP is highly resistant to chemical degradation and head, and lighter weight. Although susceptible to scratching, Polycarbonate PC is a very tough material that is impact-resistant.

Wicker-style furniture made with synthetic materials instead of authentic rattan is resistant to fading from sunlight exposure. It can also withstand the snow, wind or rain you may experience in your area. Synthetic materials are usually available in various colors and textures to make furniture that complements your backyard, patio or porch design. The most common synthetic materials for furniture include polyvinyl chloride PVC , polyethylene and nylon.

For a long-lasting piece of outdoor furniture, look for products made from high-density polyethylene HDPE. This high-grade thermoplastic has better heat endurance, strength and durability than PVC. Metal furniture usually contains aluminum or steel. Consider the following pros and cons of each type of metal:. Upholstered outdoor furniture is popular because of its comfortable cushions and pillows.

By creating a relaxing environment on your porch, patio or backyard, you can bring the comfort of the indoors outside. Most upholstered furniture includes acrylic, vinyl or polyester threads. These materials tend to be resistant to moisture and UV damage. All things considered, acrylic fabric is best all-purpose textile for outdoor furniture cushions, throw pillows and patio umbrellas. The company has products that range from soft and suitable for urban home use up to marine grade materials that can survive the rigors of saltwater, wind and sun on yachts and catamarans.

You get what you pay for, and premium acrylic fabrics have a much higher price tag than other materials. Olefin is another solution-dyed synthetic fabric that is durable, quick-drying and fade-resistant. It stands up to mold, moisture and heat and is less expensive than acrylics.

Olefin is lightweight and smooth, but it can lack the softness of some other textiles. It resists stains and abrasions and is easy to clean. This synthetic material is typically coated with either an acrylic or vinyl PVC mesh to protect it from the elements. Polyester is strong, flexible and resists water damage and staining. Unlike, solution-dyed alternatives, polyester hybrids are dipped in color or have the color painted on after the threads are woven. Consequently, they do much better in shaded environments, when there is less direct sunlight.

Acrylic coated polyester works well for accents and pillows, while vinyl-coated polyester has a plastic-like feel that is better suited for self-supporting seat and back slings, screens, umbrellas and backing, where there is less skin contact. Two of the most renowned manufacturers of high-end PVC-coated polyester textiles are Ferrari and Twitchell. Its open design allows airflow that helps the material stay cool and dry quickly. It is an ideal choice for self-supporting sling seating like poolside sunloungers, patio dining chairs and bar stools.

Twitchell also manufactures a variety of mesh grades that are appropriate for sun screens, awnings, tarps and fencing. Cushions and accent pillows for outdoor furniture are only as good as the materials that go into them. Even if they have the most weather-resistant premium acrylic cover, some water will find its way in through seams and zippered closures.

Consequently, the foam core of your upholstery must not only hold its shape and comfort level, but it must also be able to dry quickly and prevent damage from moisture too. Foam varies in quality, based on the material, production technique and treatment.

Open-cell foam has pores that allow water and air to easily flow through it. It is constructed with an antimicrobial agent that protects the foam from mold and mildew growth that can occur in the drying process.

It is an advanced, high-performance foam that is specifically engineered for outdoor upholstery. It also incorporates Uregard anti-microbial technology to keep it free from biological problems.

Closed-cell foam a. It can be made from a variety of plastics including neoprene, polypropylene, polyethylene and polystyrene. Each version has its own unique characteristics and applications. Spongy neoprene, for example, is flexible and provides thermal and moisture insulation for wet suits.

PET foam inserts are durable, recyclable and provide optimum support for outdoor upholstery. They are firm and do not flatten out or lose their shape like some materials. PET dries quickly, preventing moisture build up that can lead to mildew and mold. This common affordable seating foam has a medium firmness and will soak up water if it gets wet.

Most polyurethane foam is treated with a biocide that prevents fungus, mold and mildew from growing as the wet foam dries out. Compressed polyester is an inexpensive alternative to traditional foam. It dries relatively quickly and is easy to wash.

It works best in low to moderate use outdoor environments, since it compresses over time and frequent use will cause it to lose shape quicker. Polyester fiberfill is another low-cost option that is machine washable and resistant to mildew.

It is usually stuffed into an inner pre-sewn cover that is then covered in outdoor fabric. One drawback is that the loose fibers tend to bunch up during laundering and may need reshaping after heavy use. To view a printable cheatsheet summary of many of the materials above, click here. The usable life of your outdoor furniture can be extended by keeping it clean and well-cared for during and after the Summer months. Each material has specific instructions for cleaning various types of spills, repairing damage and protecting it from the ravages of the wind, rain and sun.

The best material for patio furniture depends on the climate in which you live. Traditional natural wicker made from rattan, bamboo or seagrass is strong but does not fare well outdoors. It's susceptible to warping, mold and mildew from rain and humidity. In drier climates, it may become brittle and crack. Almost all wicker used for patio furniture is now woven from polyethylene resin.

This synthetic wicker is extremely dense, strong and weather-resistant. Additionally, it does not fade quickly so your outdoor seating and tables will last a long time. High-density polyethylene HDPE is the most durable resin wicker, while lower quality PVC wicker will degrade over a shorter period of time.

The one thing to be careful about with synthetic wicker is that it is lightweight and may be damaged in windy conditions depending on the woven design. The solution-dyed fabric is strong and resists both weather damage and fading for years.

It's also easy to wash and is resistant to mold and mildew. If you have a large invest in patio furniture and value UV protection, it makes sense to go with the best.

Bill Ferris is the president of Decor Outdoor and founded the company in He's been quoted on patio furniture by Living Cozy and on home improvement by Realtor. When not writing posts for the website, he's a frequent guest contributor on the subject of online marketing and an interior design enthusiast. When you stated that durability matters more to patio furniture that will be used more often, I thought of how most of my family always wanted to try outdoor barbecue parties.

Steel is the strongest material, but it is also heavy and the more expensive of the metals. Due to its weight, steel furniture is not as easy to move around, but will be more stationary against the wind.

Galvanized or stainless steel are the best options for outdoor furniture, as regular steel rusts and corrodes very easily when exposed to outside elements. Galvanizing introduces a zinc coating to the sheets of steel to protect the metal from corrosion and help it withstand water exposure as long as it is not salt water.

Stainless steel, however, adds chromium to molten steel, which is resistant to rust and can be exposed to even salt water. This makes stainless steel perfect for marine environments. Do note that steel outdoor furniture, galvanized or stainless alike, will corrode with exposure to chlorine.

So make sure any poolside steel furniture has a nice, strong powder coat finish to protect it further. Upholstered outdoor furniture is unarguably the most comfortable of your options. It offers the ultimate lounging experience, and a look that could just as easily be envisioned indoors.

Outdoor fabrics are usually made out of water resistant synthetic fibers like vinyl, polyester, acrylic, etc. Such weaves tend to be breathable and resistant to sun fade, moisture and other kinds of outdoor damage. QuickDry foam and other similar fill materials are made to speed up water evaporation and runoff, and eliminate mold and mildew issues. That being said, it is super-important not to leave upholstered furniture unprotected during the winter.