Choosing Patio furniture material might not be a walk in the work as it may be presumed. You must have all the right information before you hit your favorite store for purchase.
One of the factors you need to consider is your geographical location. You need to know the kind of climate you mostly deal with.
Ask yourself; is it hot, warm, or cold? Is it rainy most of the time? Are you stuck between winter and summer or experience all the four seasons?
Having this information at hand will help you select the best patio furniture material for your backyard.
You must be wondering why I insist on this information, but it’s essential that you understand; materials vary in holding up the different kinds of weather. For instance, some will work well in hot and dry weather than they would in cold and wet areas.
However, some patio furniture materials are weather resistant. These materials are made to withstand all types of weather elements even though they may require some little care.
You can as well decide to mix up and work with both resistant and non-resistant materials depending on your final choice after this.
Additionally, you may want to consider the material’s functionality and durability. Choose a material that will serve your purpose and give value for your money.
Having all these at the back of our mind, let’s now discover the different types of patio furniture material as you choose what fits your patio.
Types of Patio Furniture Material
1. Synthetic Resin Wicker
If you are looking for durability, low maintenance material that can withstand all weather conditions, then this your catch.
Synthetic resin wicker is lightweight and is an excellent material for modern patio furniture.
However, it is important to note that there are two types of resin wicker: the traditional synthetic wicker and the natural wicker rattan.
The traditional synthetic resin is weaved in wicker style. Wicker is a method of weaving used in making this furniture and not the material used.
The natural wickers are made from natural materials like rattan, willow, seagrass, and raffia. This material fades off when exposed to sunlight; thus, it might not be the best for your classic outdoor furniture.
Good resin wickers are made of High-Density Polythene, nylon, and strands of PVC. High-Density Polythene is more durable and can endure heat than PVC.
It’s also important to note that resin wicker and aluminum work together. Resin is weaved over an aluminum frame to get the beautiful chairs you come across.
2. Cast Aluminum
Image Source Magic Union
Cast aluminum is incredibly durable and the most contemporary material for your patio furniture. If you are trendy and love durable materials, this is your destination.
Aluminum is strong enough to withstand wind gusts and other factors but, at the same time, can be easily carried to different places if the need arises.
This material resists rust and moisture, therefore its best for areas that experience rainy and sunny climates.
When exposed to these weather conditions, it develops a microscopic layer on its exterior, which protects it from rust and any other damage.
Clean by spraying soapy water to remove dust. In the case of chipping, maintain it by painting to avoid oxidation.
3. Wrought Iron
Image Source Giantex
The term wrought implies “work done by hand.” If you love handcrafted designs and being unique, then this might be your ideal choice.
Wrought iron is strong and steady with a distinctive appearance; therefore, it cannot be blown away by strong winds.
Compared to aluminum, wrought iron is heavy but corrosive. Therefore to prevent and maintain it, treat it with weather-resistant finishes that will seal out moisture to prevent rust.
4. Steel
Image Source Linlux
Steel is strong and heavy than aluminum but lighter than wrought. It provides strength, stability, and endures harsh weather climates.
Galvanized steel is the best for making patio furniture, it has a zinc coating that protects it from rusting, but remember to keep it away from salty water because it will rust.
If you live in a marine environment, stainless steel will be a greater choice because chromium is added to the molten steel; this makes it resistant to rust even if it’s exposed to salty water.
However, if this galvanized and stainless steel furniture is to be used for the pool, paint it with a durable finishing powder coat to prevent corrosion from chlorine exposure.
Because of its weight, consider making from its furniture sets that won’t be often moved.
5. Wood
Image Source Wholesale Teak
Wood is yet another suitable material to make patio furniture. Your patio furniture can be made from both hard and softwood.
If well taken care of, the beauty of wood never runs out. Depending on the type, wood has different extents of enduring weather.
Furniture made from hardwood is the best because of its durability and ability to withstand harsh conditions.
Among the examples of these is teak. It is the most popular choice for outdoor furniture and can last up to 50 years. Teak can endure extreme weather conditions, unlike pine and cedar, which have to be stored during winter.
It has a high oil and natural resin content, which protects it from insect attacks and impermeable to water. This oil also prevents it from rotting.
The natural color of a fresh teak is honey-brown. As it ages, the color naturally turns to patina grey. If you want to keep the initial tone, treat it with a teak sealant. You may need to treat it yearly or an elegant look.
Other types of wood include Ipe originally found in Brazil, cedar, and pine.
6. Recycled Plastic
Image Source Leisure Lawns
If you are looking for durability, sustainability, and style, go for recycled plastic.
Recycled plastic furniture is watertight (resistant to water); therefore, it cannot be damaged by salty water and stains.
This property makes recycled plastic non-corrosive, resistant to rotting and fading.
Most of the furniture made from recycled plastic mimic wood designs; you need to take a closer look to get the difference.
Its care is minimal as you will only need soapy water to clean.
7. Mosaic
Image Source Coral Coast Marina Mosaic
This involves decorative tabletop patterns created using hand-laid tiles of slate, marble, terra cotta, and other natural materials.
If you love art, color, and intricate designs, then the mosaic will give your patio some justice.
Its furniture frames can be made from either steel, aluminum, or iron.
If the material is sealed properly, it can withstand rain and any form of humidity. If it’s not sealed, then keep away from extreme weather conditions to avoid any cracks and grout.
For a longer life span and preservation, always cover with a tabletop when not in use. If dirty clean with a damp cloth.
8. Fabrics
Image Source Stamo
Making your patio cozy, intimate, and most comfortable must be one of your desired goals. Unarguably, incorporating cushioned furniture to your patio is one of the ways you will achieve comfort and style.
Stuffed coaches will give you the ultimate lounging experience.
Unlike indoor furniture, patio furniture fabric is made from water-resistant synthetic fibers like vinyl, acrylic, and polyester, just to mention a few.
To speed up evaporation in case of rain, these materials are made with quick-dry foam, which also helps with rapid runoff, mold, and mildew prevention.
Besides being water-resistant, these materials cannot easily fade from the sunlight or other forms of outdoor damage.
This material needs the utmost care during winter or other climates. Always protect it or store it when not in use during these periods.
9. Concrete
Image Source Decozilla
Currently, concrete can be used to design modern patio furniture and not just for house construction.
Furniture made from concrete is strong, durable and can withstand all weather conditions (depending on the blend of concrete used).
However, concrete is heavy and may need maximum care. Keep away anything that may stain it as it may never come off. Additionally, avoid using acids and alkaline substances like vinegar because it may dissolve the concrete.
Wrapping Up
There are different types of patio furniture materials in the market, but you need to consider several facts before making any purchase.
You need to have a clear understanding of your local climate, you don’t want to invest in a material meant for hot areas, yet you fit for the cold, this will be a complete waste.
However, other materials will fit all the weather conditions. You need to understand the size of your patio; this will give you a clue of how much furniture you need.
Above all, having the provided knowledge at the back of your mind, go for what suits your taste and style, or what defines your personality.
I would also love to learn to learn the techniques you use in choosing your materials. But before this, do you have any questions regarding patio furniture material? Feel free to ask and share your ideas on the comment section below.
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