Outdoor Furniture Materials Buying Guide

Aluminum

Good to Know: Aluminum outdoor furniture is typically made through extrusion, where metal is forced through a machine to create hollow round or square frames, also known as tubular or hollow aluminum. Since aluminum conducts heat, a powder-coating finish is recommended for UV resistance and rust-proofing.

Benefits: Extremely lightweight and portable. Highly durable, resistant to corrosion and temperature changes, making it low-maintenance. It is an affordable option available in many styles and colors.

Care: Wash with soapy water to remove dirt and debris. Car wax and mineral oil can help protect the surface.

Cast Aluminum

Good to Know: Constructed from solid aluminum by pouring molten metal into molds to create detailed forms. It is heavier than extruded aluminum and often features traditional or ornate designs.

Benefits: Extremely durable and rust-resistant, typically lasting a minimum of 15 years. Its weight provides stability, making it suitable for windy areas.

Care: Wash with soapy water, then rinse thoroughly.

Wrought Iron

Good to Know: Made from low-carbon iron mixed with fibrous slag inclusions. Some pieces may combine cast iron, "machine wrought iron," and low-carbon steel for intricate detailing. It is prone to rusting, but powder coating can prevent corrosion.

Benefits: Extremely strong, sturdy, and durable.

Care: Clean with a solution of equal parts water and mild dishwashing detergent. Apply a rust protectant and touch up paint for chips or cracks.

Stainless and Galvanized Steel

Good to Know: Heavier than aluminum but lighter than iron. Steel conducts heat, so cushions are recommended for comfort.

Benefits: Sturdy, durable, and generally more comfortable than iron furniture.

Care: Wash with soapy water and rinse. Apply a protective finish to non-stainless steel to prevent rust and corrosion.

Wicker and Rattan

Good to Know: Wicker is made from natural fibers, but natural-looking synthetics and vinyl reproductions are common for outdoor use. Rattan is strong, durable, and flexible. Synthetic wicker is made from resin with color-through dyes and is woven over a metal frame.

Benefits: Lightweight, flexible, comfortable, and available in various colors.

Care: Use a cloth dampened with a solution of equal parts water and mild dishwashing detergent. Rinse with water.

Recycled Plastic (MGP)

Good to Know: Marine Grade Polymer (MGP) and recycled plastic are similar to wood in density and performance but do not splinter. Both are made from high-density polyethylene and can mimic various materials.

Benefits: Weather-, fade-, and rust-resistant. Lightweight, low-maintenance, and durable.

Care: Use cleaners designed to prevent mildew and rinse with water.

Natural Wood

Good to Know: A common material, made from woods like teak, cedar, oak, and eucalyptus. Unsealed wood ages naturally when exposed to elements. Furniture pieces are assembled from multiple wood parts. Can be expensive depending on the wood type.

Benefits: Does not absorb heat like aluminum or steel. Strong and sturdy. Can last many years with proper care.

Care: Use a sealant and preservative to resist water, insects, and mold. For painted wood, use paint with UV filters. For unpainted wood, use oil and a brightener. Watch for splinters.

Teak

Good to Know: Teak is a dense-grained tropical hardwood rich in natural oils and rubber, providing weather and insect resistance. It's durable and requires little maintenance. Teak furniture is often sold in its natural golden-honey state (treated with teak oil) or left untreated to age to a silver-gray. It's ideal for year-round use due to its high oil content. Quality craftsmanship includes dowel joints and mortise-and-tenon joinery. Hardware should be stainless steel or brass. Table legs should be at least 1.5 inches thick. Teak is typically more expensive.

Benefits: Naturally resistant to mold, rot, and insects. Extremely durable, strong, and has an attractive natural appearance.

Care: Regular maintenance helps prevent discoloration on both treated and untreated teak wood.

• Cleaning: Use mild soap, bleach or vinegar, and water. Avoid metal brushes; use a soft plastic brush. Teak cleaner can help with tough stains. Start with mild solutions and increase concentration if needed. Wash from bottom to top to prevent streaks.
• Oiling: To maintain the golden-honey patina, oil teak furniture every 2-3 months, keeping it out of direct sunlight. Oiling is for appearance, not protection. Only oil after thorough cleaning. Tung oil is preferred, but Linseed oil can be used. Specialized teak oils offer UV blockers and mildew retardants. Apply with a paintbrush in smooth strokes until the wood stops absorbing. Wipe excess oil with a cloth dampened with mineral spirits.