What Patio Furniture Material Lasts The Longest?

Many customers who visit our showroom often ask, what patio furniture material lasts the longest?

Longevity and sturdiness are essential qualities of excellent outdoor furniture. Consider the materials, the price and the maintenance requirements when selecting the ideal patio furniture for your garden or terrace.

Let’s take a closer look at the different materials used in modern outdoor furniture.

Benefits of various patio furniture materials

Patio furniture is an essential part of your home. Your outdoor space is as important as your interior, a place where you can connect with nature, catch some sun or simply enjoy the warm weather on social gatherings. ,

But how do you choose the right patio furniture for your outdoor space? There are many different types of materials used for outdoor furniture and each one has its own benefits.

Here are some of the most popular materials used in patio furniture:

• Wood: Wooden patio furniture is very durable and can last for decades if properly cared for. However, it does require regular maintenance to avoid fading and cracking over time.
• Aluminium: Aluminium is another popular choice for outdoor furniture because it's lightweight and durable. It comes in many different finishes, so you can choose a personalised, polished look from a variety of colours. The main benefit of aluminium is that it won't warp or rot—it's pretty much maintenance-free. However, aluminium does tend to get hot in the sun.
• Rattan: Rattan is very lightweight, making it easy to move around and store. However, it can also be damaged by sunlight over time, so you'll need to learn the best ways to maintain your rattan furniture. It’s best not to leave it in direct sunlight for long periods and should be stored away during wet months.

How to care for your patio furniture to make it last longer

It's important to take care of your patio furniture so you can enjoy it for years to come.

• Rattan: The best way to care for rattan outdoor furniture is to keep it out of the sun for extended periods. You can spray a water mist on it once a month and wipe it down. Rattan is also very easy to clean—you spray it with a hosepipe or wipe it down with a damp cloth. It can, however, deteriorate in damp conditions, so ensure you don’t leave it out while very wet.
• Aluminium: Aluminium outdoor furniture is prone to rusting if not cared for properly, so make sure you clean it regularly. If you see your furniture starting to rust, rub the affected area with vinegar and let it sit for 15 minutes before sanding it down with steel wool. Ideally, choose aluminium with a powder coating that prevents corrosion.
• Wood: Wooden outdoor furniture needs to be kept as dry as possible when not in use. If it gets wet, let it dry out completely before storing it. It’s best to choose the wood that has been treated with polyurethane for extra protection against moisture and UV damage.

Which patio furniture material should you choose?

If you’re in the market for new patio furniture, you might be wondering which material is best for your needs. Here’s what our interior designers have to say.

1. Rattan Outdoor Furniture

Rattan is a great choice if you want something that’s lightweight and very durable. Synthetic rattan can last for years when properly cared for. The Castries Outdoor Armchair by Skyline Design is a good example of a beautiful rattan piece that exudes an elegant island style. However, it can be a little more difficult to clean than other materials, especially if there are gaps within the weave.

2. Aluminium Outdoor Furniture

Aluminium is very popular because it’s lightweight yet strong enough to hold up well under pressure from the elements (such as rain or snow). It also comes in a wide range of styles so there are many different options available depending on what type of look you prefer.

Take a look into Huggy Bistro Outdoor Armchair by Skyline Design for a timeless yet durable piece on your patio.

3. Wooden Outdoor Furniture

Wooden patio furniture is not only aesthetically pleasing but also very durable when taken care of properly. However, wooden pieces do tend to cost more than other types of patio furniture because they require expert craftsmanship to create them.

If you're looking to add some new outdoor furniture to your space, our interior design project portfolio is a great place to start. Take a look at the different designs we've created for our clients and see if any of them inspire you!

Tips on keeping your patio furniture in good condition for years to come

At FCI, we believe that there's no better place to relax than in an outdoor setting. Whether you need seating in a garden or on a patio, we've got outdoor furniture seating for every budget and every taste.

The material of your patio furniture can have a big impact on how long it lasts. If you're looking for the best option, consider these tips:

Outdoor furniture is meant to last for many years, but it can be hard to know how to care for your pieces so they stay in good shape. Here are some tips:

• Clean your furniture regularly. Use a mild soap and water solution, and use a soft cloth to wipe away dirt.
• Repair any damage as soon as possible. If you have a chair with a broken leg, get it fixed right away—don't let it sit there while you procrastinate!
• Cover your outdoor furniture when not in use. The elements can take their toll on wood and metal if left unguarded.

In conclusion

While rattan, aluminium and wood are the most common materials used in the patio furniture industry, each has certain pros and cons. Some types of patio furniture may last longer than others, depending on usage patterns and maintenance.

We highly recommend trying out aluminium outdoor furniture for the perfect balance of affordability, durability and aesthetics. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which type of patio furniture you prefer.

If you'd like to chat about some options for your outdoor space, give us a call or send us a WhatsApp with your requirements. You can also book a zoom or a visit to our showroom seven days a week.