8 Most Durable Outdoor Patio Furniture Materials

When it comes to modern outdoor furniture, durability is key. After all, your patio chairs and sofas have to brave the elements, from the scorching sun and torrential rain to the occasional playful pet or rambunctious gathering. 

That's why, when buying patio chairs or outdoor sofas, homeowners often prioritize long-lasting materials that can withstand the test of time (and the occasional spilled drink!).

Of course, some materials for patio furniture are far better at coping with these outdoor conditions than others. That said, let’s take a look at the 8 most durable materials for outdoor furniture and discuss their unique properties!

What to consider when selecting outdoor materials

When choosing materials for outdoor furniture, here are some of the most important factors to consider to ensure you select the best option for your needs:

1. Material properties

Outdoor furniture must withstand constant exposure to the elements, including sun, wind, rain, and snow. When choosing outdoor furniture material from a furniture store, choose materials that are resistant to rust, corrosion, and fading.

2. Maintenance

Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to spend on maintaining your outdoor furniture. Materials like teak or aluminum require little maintenance, while others, such as wrought iron, may require regular upkeep.

Think about your lifestyle and how much time you realistically have for furniture care. Those who prefer a hands-off approach may prefer to spend more time enjoying their outdoor space and less time working on it. 

3. Rain and humidity

If you live in an area with high moisture levels, opt for furniture that’s water-resistant or treated to withstand moisture. Not only can it compromise the structural integrity of the furniture, moisture can also promote mold and mildew growth, causing odors and stains.

4. Sun exposure

Outdoor materials should be able to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight, especially during long summer months. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause certain materials to fade, become brittle, or even crack. In addition to fading, sun exposure can cause some materials to become discolored or yellowed, which can make furniture look old and unattractive.

5. Wind and storms

Outdoor materials should be able to withstand wind and storms without becoming damaged or blown away. Materials that are too lightweight or not secured properly can easily become damaged or dislodged during a storm.

6. Comfort

It's important to remember that being durable doesn't have to mean sacrificing comfort. Outdoor furniture should be every bit as comfortable and functional as indoor furniture. Consider materials that provide a comfortable seating surface, such as cushions or padded seats, and that are designed to withstand the weight of people using them.

The most durable outdoor furniture materials

1. Wood

Wood is often the go-to material for outdoor lounge furniture. It’s durable and beautiful, making it the natural choice for many homeowners.

However, it’s important to remember that not all wood is the same. The type of wood used for outdoor furniture varies widely in durability and can make a difference in how long your outdoor lounge furniture lasts.

Hardwoods, such as teak, stand up very well to the elements. Their dense and oily nature often means that they’re resistant to water, insects, cracking, and warping, making it a popular choice for outdoor furniture due to its durability and natural beauty. However, teak is expensive, and its high density makes it heavy cumbersome, which can be a drawback if you need to move or rearrange your furniture frequently.

Softwoods, like pine and cedar, look beautiful but are more susceptible to weathering and require more protection compared to hardwoods. This extra maintenance can make them a potentially riskier option for homeowners who prefer low-maintenance outdoor furniture.

Whether you choose hardwood or softwood, all outdoor wooden furniture will need care in the form of oiling, painting, or varnishing to maintain its natural resistance.

2. Aluminum

Aluminum is another popular material for outdoor patio furniture because of its durability, lightweight, and resistance to rust and corrosion. The metal is also easy to clean and maintain, often requiring just a simple wipe-down with soapy water to keep it looking its best. This makes it a practical choice for busy individuals or those who prefer low-maintenance outdoor furniture.

Aluminum furniture is available in a variety of styles and designs, from modern to traditional, and can be powder-coated in any color to match your outdoor decor. Moreover, aluminum's inherent sleekness also lends itself particularly well to contemporary outdoor furniture, creating clean lines and a sophisticated look for your patio.

The downside to aluminum is that it can still be prone to scratches and dents, which can be unsightly and may require touch-ups or repairs over time.

3. Wicker

Wicker is another outdoor material that’s commonly used for furniture making. But take note that natural wicker – often made from bamboo or rattan – isn’t inherently weather-resistant and will require a lot of maintenance.

If that’s not what you’re looking for, you may want to consider resin wicker. Resin wicker (or all-weather wicker) is a synthetic material that’s designed to mimic the look and feel of natural wicker, but with added durability and weather resistance.

It's resistant to moisture, UV rays, and temperature changes, so you don't have to worry about fading, cracking, or that brittle feeling that some materials get over time.

Choosing resin wicker for patio furniture, like the Bistro Round Foldable Table and Chair Set, is a fantastic way to bring that tropical, breezy vibe to your outdoor space. It

captures the classic charm of wicker while offering superior performance, making it a popular choice for homeowners to create a relaxing and inviting outdoor oasis that can be enjoyed year-round.

4. Steel

Stainless steel is extremely strong, making it an excellent choice for structural components like sofa frames or dining table supports. Its high density makes it hard to damage and incredibly durable over long periods. Stainless steel is more or less immune to rust and corrosion, which makes it an especially good choice for those living in coastal areas where the salty air can be tough on outdoor furniture.

However, stainless steel metal can get very hot to the touch, making it less suitable for outdoor furniture surfaces exposed to direct sunlight. This tendency to heat up in the summer means it’s best used for structural elements rather than seating surfaces for patio furniture.

5. GRC

Glass fiber reinforced concrete (GRC) is often used in outdoor furniture as it combines the strength of concrete with the flexibility of fiberglass, creating a durable and versatile material that is well-suited for outdoor use.

GRC is highly durable and can withstand various environmental stressors. The glass fibers embedded within the concrete matrix significantly enhance its strength, making it resistant to cracking and chipping.

This durability ensures that GRC furniture like the Olwen Coffee Table can last for many years, even in harsh outdoor conditions where temperatures fluctuate throughout the year from summer heat to winter chills.

Plus, here's a surprising bonus: GRC is surprisingly lightweight! It’s much easier to move and rearrange GRC, which is a big plus for outdoor spaces where you might want to change things up.

But here’s one thing to keep in mind with GRC: it's a bit porous. This means that spills should be wiped down immediately to prevent any permanent staining. Because of this, you might want to think twice if you’re looking for outdoor furniture to dine on.

6. Rattan

Rattan is popular for its lightweight, ease of movement, and resistance to weather and sun damage. One of the great things about rattan is its natural look, which can give your outdoor living space a cozy, relaxed feel. 

It’s also relatively easy to clean and maintain and can be treated with special coatings to help protect it from the elements.

However, while rattan is generally weather-resistant, it can still be prone to fading or cracking over time, especially if it has prolonged exposure to sunlight. Rattan outdoor furniture can also be tricky to repair if it becomes damaged. Because it's woven together, fixing a broken strand or a crack can require some expertise and might even involve calling in a professional.

7. Olefin

If you're looking for a fabric that can truly withstand the elements and stay looking sharp, olefin is a fantastic choice. This synthetic material is known for its strength, resilience, and versatility, making it a top contender for outdoor upholstery.

One of the key advantages of olefin as a material is its excellent resistance to various weather conditions. It’s highly resistant to moisture, which prevents mold and mildew growth. Plus, it dries quickly, which is perfect for those unexpected rain showers or accidental spills.

Olefin is also inherently resistant to UV, meaning it won’t fade or degrade even with prolonged exposure sunlight for extended periods, so you can enjoy those vibrant colors and patterns season after season.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that olefin can be sensitive to high temperatures and may melt if exposed to extreme heat or direct contact with hot objects. So, avoid placing any hot objects directly on your olefin furniture.

8. Plastic

In the past, plastic outdoor furniture has been very susceptible to fading and cracking, but modern variants are generally treated to be much more resistant, and they have become a sought-after option.

Plastic also doesn’t need to be treated or maintained in the same way that wood or iron furniture does. This lack of required material maintenance is a major plus for busy homeowners or those who simply prefer a low-fuss approach to outdoor furniture. 

One of the main downsides is that plastic doesn't hold up to UV exposure well, which means lengthy periods in the sun can cause the material to degrade slightly.

Comparing the outdoor furniture materials

If you want to see how these materials hold up, here’s a quick comparison table:

Investing in durable outdoor furniture material

Choosing the right materials for your outdoor furniture is an investment in creating a space you'll love for years to come. From the timeless elegance of teak wood to the sleek durability of aluminum and the weather-defying resilience of resin wicker, each material offers unique benefits and a distinct style.

Remember that even the most durable materials benefit from proper care, so be sure to follow what the manufacturer recommends for cleaning and maintenance, and consider using outdoor furniture covers to protect your outdoor furniture so you can enjoy them for years to come.

Frequently asked questions about outdoor furniture materials

1. How long does metal patio furniture last?

The lifespan of your metal patio furniture depends on several factors, including the type of metal, the quality of construction, and how well you care for it. Generally speaking, you can expect well-maintained metal furniture to last for many years.

2. What outdoor furniture material is mold-resistant?

Several materials naturally resist mold. Resin wicker is a great option for outdoor patio furniture because its synthetic fibers don't absorb much moisture, which helps prevent mold. Aluminum, being a metal, is also naturally mold-resistant. 

Teak, a strong hardwood, has natural oils that help it resist moisture and mold. However, it's important to remember that any material can get moldy if it stays damp. Regular cleaning and letting your furniture dry are important for preventing mold, no matter what it's made of.

3. What type of furniture is best for outdoors?

The best type of outdoor furniture depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider what you plan to do with the space. If you entertain frequently, an outdoor dining set or comfortable lounge chairs might be ideal.

For smaller spaces or quiet relaxation, a bistro set or a couple of chaise lounges could be perfect. Think about the climate in your area, too. Some materials hold up better in humid or sunny environments.