Choose Quality: Top Outdoor Furniture Materials : BBQGuys

Outdoor furniture is available in many different materials. When choosing the best material for a patio set it’s important to consider climate, exposure to the elements (is your space covered or uncovered) and how it will be used. This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about outdoor furniture materials – including the different types of metals, plastics, natural materials and fabrics. After choosing a material, check out the Patio Furniture Sets Buying Guide for help finding the perfect piece for a patio or any outdoor space.

Metal Frame Outdoor Furniture

Cast Aluminum

Molten aluminum is poured into molds and solid pieces are welded together.
Pros: Detailed designs, does not rust, minimal maintenance, sturdy
Cons: Typically more expensive than extruded aluminum (but also more heavy-duty) Shop Cast Aluminum Outdoor Furniture

Extruded Aluminum

A solid aluminum billet is forced through a die, creating a hollow tube.
Pros: Lightweight and easy to move, affordable, does not rust, minimal maintenance
Cons: Styles will have less detail, not suitable for extremely windy areas Shop Extruded Aluminum Outdoor Furniture

Wrought Iron

Iron is hammered, forged, and welded into desired design.
Pros: Multiple design styles, superior strength and durability
Cons: Heavy, waxing and resealing is recommended on an annual basis, scratches must be repainted as quickly as possible to prevent rusting Shop Wrought Iron Outdoor Furniture

Steel

Steel is a combination of iron and other elements known for its strength and durability.
Pros: Extremely strong, less likely than aluminum to dent, able to withstand extreme temperatures, classic design lends a sophisticated look
Cons: Heavier than aluminum, will become hot to the touch if sitting in direct sunlight, scratches to finish can cause furniture to rust Shop Steel Outdoor Furniture

Wood Frame Outdoor Furniture

Teak

A tropical hardwood species with a naturally high oil content, often used on boat decks.
Pros: Incomparable durability, strong, naturally resistant to insects, moisture and rot resistant
Cons: While also desirable, teak will turn a silver-gray over time if left untreated Shop Teak Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor Furniture Fabrics

Set of outdoor furniture with Sunbrella cushions

Sunbrella | Solution-Dyed Acrylic

100% acrylic fibers that have been dyed before being woven vs. woven and then dyed.
Pros: Water repellent, fade resistant (provides up to 98% protection from UV rays), mold and mildew resistant, easy to clean, minimal shrinking/stretching, large color selection
Cons: With higher quality comes a higher price tag Shop Sunbrella Outdoor Furniture

Olefin

A synthetic, solution-dyed material with a smooth texture.
Pros: Water repellent, resistant to weathering/stains/mildew, quick drying, provides better fade resistance than polyester and cotton for a lower price point than solution-dyed acrylic
Cons: Less detail, not suitable for extremely windy areas, prone to stretching Shop Olefin Outdoor Furniture

Darlee outdoor furniture with polyester cushions

Polyester | PET

A synthetic fabric made from plastic-based fibers.
Pros: Strong, resistant to stretching/shrinking, quick drying, lower price, typically the most decorative (can be screen printed), fewer wrinkles
Cons: Do not expose to chlorine, only a 2-3 year lifespan compared to higher quality fabrics Shop Polyester Outdoor Furniture

Guide to Outdoor Furniture Materials