"The sun is smiling again, enjoy it"

If you want to beautify your outdoor area with a new dining or lounge set, you have to choose your garden furniture carefully.

There are more options than ever before. Find out which materials best suit your needs, taste and lifestyle.

We give you an overview of the style, properties, care and much more of the most popular outdoor furniture materials available today:

Wood, metal, rattan, plastic, rope, synthetic resin, outdoor fabrics. 

Wood

Wood has been a popular raw material for furniture for thousands of years. Naturally beautiful, it is usually easy to work with and provides a stable framework for tables, chairs, benches and other furnishings. However, not all woods are equally suitable for outdoor use. Many softwoods, such as pressure-treated pine, cedar, and fir, are inexpensive and commonly used for interiors, but do not hold up well to the elements and require constant protection when not in use. Hardwoods, on the other hand, are much sturdier, resist weather damage and can last for decades if treated properly. The downside is that they are often more difficult to shape and are usually more expensive than softwoods. But there are also big differences between the hardwoods. 

Metal

Metal is typically the strongest and most durable material for outdoor patio furniture. Because of its strength, metal frames can be thinner and formed into more complex designs than other options, giving manufacturers greater stylistic flexibility. Metal is also a good choice when combined with other materials that have their own functional and aesthetic benefits. Through various production techniques, metal chairs and tables can be made that do not require bolts, screws or other fasteners that make other pieces of furniture more susceptible to damage. However, metal also has its disadvantages. It heats up in the sun so it feels uncomfortable. Certain metals are very heavy and difficult to move, and all metals are susceptible to rust and corrosion to some degree. But each type of metal has its own unique properties. 

Rattan

Rattan is a woven material made from the stalks of palm leaves and has been used to make furniture and other items for centuries. There are now also synthetic variants that are more durable and easier to care for than their natural counterparts.

If you're looking for a durable, UV-resistant patio furniture set that you'll enjoy for years to come, synthetic rattan is an ideal choice. It is also very easy to clean, either with a cloth and warm soapy water or with a pressure washer.

Plastic

Man-made synthetic materials such as resin and plastic are becoming more common in the outdoor furniture world. Thanks to new manufacturing processes and hybrid compositions, these polymers can take on shapes and sizes that were previously unattainable. Plastics tend to be lightweight, inexpensive, and can be molded into any decor style imaginable. Because the color is inherent in the chemical composition, they are fade resistant and do not require paint or sealing like other materials. In addition, they are easy to clean and maintain. 

Ropes

Rope furniture has been around for centuries, but it's only recently that it's become popular as an outdoor material. The versatility of the rope makes it ideal for all types of outdoor spaces and environments, from the beach to the city, from the garden to the porch.

The most common type of rope furniture is made from woven rattan or wicker that comes from a tropical palm tree called sisal. It is a natural material that grows quickly and can be harvested without harming the environment (unlike teak). This makes it an environmentally friendly alternative to metal or plastic garden furniture.

When choosing your next rope furniture, there are a few things to keep in mind. Look out for powder-coated metal frames or frames made of stainless steel - they are completely rustproof and protected all year round. A powder-coated aluminum frame is more durable than wood or plastic in all weather conditions. 

Resin

Synthetic resin is one of the best materials for garden furniture because it is high-quality, robust and extremely weather-resistant. Its chic appearance is also perfect for more modern gardens and outdoor spaces. Resin furniture will not rust or rot, making it ideal for the pool area. They can be left outside all year round and only need a quick wash or hose down to keep them looking new.

A well-maintained resin patio set will last for decades. It is therefore worth investing in a piece of furniture that you will enjoy for many years to come. 

Outdoor Fabrics

Outdoor fabrics should be tough enough to withstand the elements while maintaining their looks.

The right outdoor fabrics can bring the comfort and convenience of living room furniture outdoors, while providing a range of additional benefits. Our outdoor fabrics are breathable and quick-drying, fade-resistant for the sunniest days, water-resistant for the rainy months, and stain-resistant so you can relax without worrying about the occasional wine stain. Cushions, slings, and accent cushions for outdoor furniture require fabrics that can withstand the rigors of constant exposure to the elements. Natural fibers tend to lose vibrancy and degrade over time. Therefore, fabrics made from synthetic threads infused with plastic are a much better choice for outdoor upholstery. They are more resistant to climatic influences and keep their color longer.