Wondering what type of materials are best for outdoor furniture?
Simply put, the best materials for outdoor furniture are those that are durable, weather-resistant, and easy to maintain.
Some of the most common, and best materials used for outdoor furniture include aluminum, cast aluminum, stainless steel, wicker and rattan, all weather wicker, teak wood, and resin.
Aluminum Furniture
Lightweight and rust-resistant, aluminum is a popular choice for outdoor furniture. It is also easy to clean and maintain.
Aluminum furniture which has been powder-coated only adds to its long life of looking good and being rust resistant.

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Shop the St Kitts aluminum collection here!
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Outdoor Aluminum Kitchen Sets
While most of us will be thinking of only outdoor furniture, we can also add to our outdoor enjoyment by creating a full outdoor eating environment – which then includes adding kitchen cabinet modules to your outdoor space.

Shop durable and modular outdoor kitchen collections here!
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Aluminum Paired with Other Materials
Some outdoor furniture may be a combination of aluminum and other materials – using the aluminum frame as the base. This could be an outdoor seating set which has aluminum feet, arms and back with resin wicker-like seats and back.

Shop the Seton Furniture Collection here!
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Shop the Reeve Furniture Collection here!
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Cast Aluminum Furniture
A heavier version of aluminum while still being aluminum. While still possessing all of the inherent qualities of aluminum itself – including being rust resistant and easy to clean – cast aluminum has literally been cast – as a statue is. The aluminum frame of the furniture is hollow with the outer layers being aluminum.
Because this process usually involves more aluminum, the furniture is generally heavier than standard aluminum. As well because the aluminum is cast much like a statue, the shapes and designs can be much more decorative and ornate.
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Cast Aluminum Sofa Sets

Shop the full collection of Carlisle cast aluminum furniture here!
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Shop the classic Avery line of outdoor cast aluminum furniture here!
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Shop the classic and modern Bowery furniture collection here!
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Cast Aluminum Dining Sets
Don’t forget that when decorating your outdoor space – pool patio, garden patio or deck – you must consider a dining area. Afterall, who does not enjoy eating al fresco, aka outdoors.

See the full Grayson line of cast aluminum outdoor furniture here!
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Shop more quality cast aluminum outdoor furniture here!
Stainless Steel Outdoor Furniture
Stainless steel is a weather-resistant and durable option for outdoor furniture. It is also very easy to clean – aka stainless – but it can be expensive, and is probably one of the most expensive outdoor furniture material options out there.
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Wicker Furniture
Wicker furniture is made from natural fibers, such as rattan or bamboo, and is often used for patio or porch furniture. It is lightweight and weather-resistant, but may need to be protected from direct sunlight or heavy rain.
All Weather Wicker
Due to the maintenance and care required for genuine wicker furniture, many of todays wicker patterned styled furniture is made of resin. Looking just like the original, it gives you the look of wicker but, is more easily maintained and cared for.

See the full line of Graham wicker furniture here!
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All Weather Wicker – Color Options
One of the many benefits of all weather wicker is that it can be made in various color options.
For those who love the natural look of wicker but want something a little different – and perhaps not the standard beige – this outdoor furniture set is perfect.

Shop the Seton all weather wicker and aluminum sets here!
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All Weather Wicker Furniture with Built in Cushions
For those who love the simple and natural look of wicker but also like the comfort of cushioned seats, you can opt for this modular outdoor sectional set.
Believe it or not this sectional is done in all weather wicker with built in seat cushions. Get the look and comfort without the hassle of covering or removing and storing cushions when not in use.


Shop the wicker Covelle modular furniture here!
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Teak Outdoor Furniture
Teak is a dense, durable hardwood that is naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects. It is also resistant to warping, cracking, and splitting. Teak is an expensive option, but it will last for many years with proper care and maintenance.

Shop the Newport Teak and Mesh Outdoor Furniture here!
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Many teak outdoor furniture sets will include cushions for added comfort. Otherwise, you are just sitting on wood – a tad less comfortable than a thick cushion. If you opt for a set with cushions, be sure to choose one with weather resistant fabrics – you may pay a little more but you will not regret it.

Shop for St. Kitts solid teak furniture here!
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Shop the Surrey Hill Teak Collection here!
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Teak and All Weather Wicker Furniture
As with aluminum, teak is often used as the frame for outdoor furniture with added materials used for the seats and backs.

Shop the iconic Isola Outdoor Furniture Collection here!
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Teak Coffee Tables
If you are just looking for a new coffee table for your outdoor patio set, consider a solid teak one.
Remember in decorating, not everything has to be matching. And, in fact, having some furniture pieces of another material in your setting makes it much more interesting.

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Shop Teak Tables here!
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Resin Outdoor Furniture
Resin furniture is made from a plastic material that is very durable, weather-resistant, and easy to clean. It is a good option for those who want the look of wood, wicker or even metal without the maintenance.
The outdoor resin furniture of today is not exactly what it was years ago. The advances in the manufacture of resin furniture are numerous. One of them is the quality produced. The high-density polyethylene (HDPE) resin which is featured in our many furniture examples has many desirable attributes.
This high density resin is non-toxic and safe for the environment. It is also antimicrobial, a quality that prohibits the growth of fungus and mildew. The wicker won’t splinter or rot in extreme temperatures (-94°F to 176°F), making this type of resin furniture excellent for almost any climate.
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Another of the advances are the styles of resin furniture available. From Adirondack chairs to resin wicker – also known as faux wicker – you can find outdoor furniture made of resin in just about any style you like.
Another interesting feature of resin furniture is its price. It will usually cost much less for the same piece of furniture which is made from any natural material such as wicker or teak as well as less expensive than aluminum – all of which can be on the higher end of the price ranges.
All and all, resin furniture is a suitable choice for those who want stylish, durable and relatively inexpensive outdoor furniture.

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Shop the Palermo Wicker Collection here!
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Shop the all weather wicker Beaumont Furniture Collection here!
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Shop the Wicker Hampton Collection here!
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Choose the Best Outdoor Furniture Material for You
Ultimately, the best material for outdoor furniture depends on your personal preferences, needs and your budget.
It’s important to choose a material that will withstand the elements in your area, one that you find comfortable and attractive, and one that fits into your outdoor decorating budget.
Shop all Quality Outdoor Furniture here!
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Shop our partner, Decorating Outside, for more outdoor patio furniture here!