Outdoor furniture is an investment. The right material can last 10 to 15 years. The wrong one might not survive a single season. Your climate is the single most important factor in choosing outdoor furniture. Here is a breakdown of which materials work best in different weather conditions.
Hot, Dry Climates (Southwest, Southern California)
In areas with intense sun and low humidity, UV damage is your biggest concern. The sun fades fabric, dries out wood, and makes plastic brittle. Powder-coated aluminum is your best bet here. It does not rust, and the powder coating resists UV degradation. Our aluminum fire pit tables use this exact construction.
If you prefer wicker, look for PE (polyethylene) wicker rather than PVC. PE wicker maintains its color and flexibility under prolonged sun exposure. UV-resistant PE wicker is what we use in our patio sectionals and egg chairs.
Avoid natural rattan in dry climates. It cracks and splits without humidity. If you love the look, choose synthetic PE wicker that mimics the texture.
Humid and Wet Climates (Southeast, Gulf Coast, Pacific Northwest)
In humid regions, moisture is the enemy. Wood rots, metal rusts, and fabric mildews. Teak is the exception. Natural teak contains oils that repel water and resist rot. Our solid teak dining sets are built for exactly this environment. The dense grain and natural oils make it one of the most weather-resistant woods available.
Aluminum is also excellent in humid climates because it does not rust. However, check that the hardware and fasteners are also rust-resistant. Stainless steel screws and bolts are a must.
For cushions, look for solution-dyed acrylic fabrics. They resist mildew and dry quickly after rain. Store cushions indoors during extended wet periods to extend their life.
Cold Climate With Snow (Northeast, Midwest, Mountain West)
Freeze-thaw cycles are tough on outdoor furniture. Water gets into small cracks, freezes, and expands. This splits wood, cracks plastic, and damages joints. If you live in a region with hard freezes, plan to store furniture indoors or under covers during winter.
HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic handles cold well. It does not crack in freezing temperatures the way cheaper plastics do. Our waterproof storage boxes use HDPE rated for UV protection up to 2000 hours, and they withstand freezing conditions without becoming brittle.
Teak also handles cold well if properly maintained. Apply a teak sealer in the fall to protect the wood through winter. In spring, clean it with mild soap and water before the next season.
Coastal Climates (Salt Air)
Salt air corrodes metal faster than any other environmental factor. If you live near the coast, avoid steel and iron furniture entirely. Even powder-coated steel will eventually rust if the coating gets scratched.
Aluminum, teak, and HDPE plastic are your best options for coastal homes. Rinse furniture with fresh water periodically to remove salt residue. This simple step can double the lifespan of your outdoor furniture.
Material Comparison Summary
- Aluminum: Best all-around choice. Lightweight, rust-proof, UV-resistant. Works in every climate.
- Teak: Premium option for humid and wet climates. Natural water resistance. Requires periodic sealing.
- PE Wicker: Good for dry and warm climates. UV-resistant. Avoid in areas with heavy snow accumulation.
- HDPE Plastic: Budget-friendly, weatherproof, and low maintenance. Best for storage boxes and utility pieces.
Final Recommendation
No matter your climate, the most important thing you can do is cover your furniture when not in use. A fitted cover costs a fraction of what the furniture costs and extends its life by years. Clean your furniture at the start and end of each season, and address any damage immediately before it spreads.
