Outdoor Furniture Materials Explained: Teak, Aluminum, Sunbrella & More
Patio season is finally here, and with backyard barbecues and summer pool parties just around the corner, you’ll want to be sure your outdoor spaces are ready to be enjoyed. When it comes to investing in heirloom quality lounge furniture that can also withstand the elements, knowing which durable and weather-resistent materials will be easiest for you to maintain is a great place to start. That’s why several of the leading workshop partners included in our outdoor furniture collection expertly craft their pieces with resilient and low-maintenance materials like 100% solid teak wood, powder-coated steel, Sunbrella and other antimicrobial fabrics, concrete, and recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) made from upcycled single-use plastics. If you’re looking to create the open-air living space of your dreams this season, these outdoor materials are the perfect combination of comfort, style, and effortless care:
Recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for zero maintenance and sustainability
Let’s start off with the easiest outdoor furniture you’ll ever care for: recycled HDPE. The primary material for Loll Designs outdoor furniture, this ultra-durable, weather-resistent material is also doing great things for the environment! It’s made from mostly upcycled post-consumer and post-industrial plastics, diverting them from landfills and oceans. Recycled HDPE is an ideal choice for anyone who wants to leave their outdoor furniture outside year-round without having to worry about protecting or maintaining it– even after rain or snow. While Loll Designs recommends checking furniture bolts from time to time to ensure the heat or cold hasn’t loosened the hardware, the care for their effortless collections shouldn’t require more than a simple hosing-off, or gentle wipe-down if needed.
Concrete design for minimal upkeep that stands up to heavy use
We love Ethnicraft’s outdoor furniture collections, several of which are entirely made from cement-based materials, or feature cement-based design elements. Not only does this material offer a formidable, architectural aesthetic that feels both sculptural and nature-inspired, but it’s also sealed for protection against everyday spills, scratches, and moisture. With only minimal care required, concrete furniture provides a modern minimalist style that can be kept in top shape with regular cleaning using a natural soap or specialised cleaner.
Polypropylene textiles for style that’s anti-bacterial and mold-resistent too
If you’re designing an outdoor space that happens to be near a swimming pool, polypropylene fabric is a top furniture upholstery choice. It’s antibacterial, as well as resistant to mold, mildew, and color fading, so those hot sunny days near chlorinated water would be no problem at all. Ethnicraft favors 100% polypropylene for their outdoor cushions, whose covers can also be removed and machine-washed if needed. These textiles are best cleaned with natural soap and water, in addition to a light brushing or gentle vacuum if any dust builds up.
Jack Outdoor Lounge Chair, Two Seat Sofa, and Quatro Outdoor Coffee and Side Tables
Nisswa Sofa, Lounge Chair, Ottoman and Satellite End Table
Solid teak for a natural wood look that’s minimalist modern and low fuss
Perhaps the most obvious perk of natural and varnished teak wood is how beautiful it is to look at; no wonder Ethnicraft offers it as an option for some of its bestselling outdoor collections. Solid FSC certified teak lends a serene simplicity to any patio or backyard design, while also serving as a lower maintenance alternative for customers who might prefer a wood aesthetic. While teak furniture doesn’t need any preventative treatment before use, it’s generally recommended to use natural soap or specialized cleaner for routine maintenance. While these pieces are naturally UV-resistant and generally durable in most weather, using a coordinating rain cover to keep them covered in heavy rain or snow will help them stay spot-free and stunning for years to come.
Powder-coated steel for a lightweight appeal that’s easy to care for
As an outdoor furniture material, powder-coated steel is unmatched for its signature light and breezy feel. Sustainably-minded HOUE features it for an almost nostalgic patio furniture aesthetic in their colorful outdoor collections, while Loll Designs incorporates its durability as the base for their Aurora collection. While still weather-resistant and fairly simple to maintain with mild soap, lukewarm water, and a soft cloth or sponge, powder-coated steel should ideally be covered and stored during off-seasons. HOUE also offers Repair Lacquer, which can help treat scuffs and scratches to prevent erosion.
As you make the move to spend more leisure and hosting time outside this season, these trusted outdoor materials will help you rest easy about the quality and lasting potential of your outdoor furniture investment. If you’d also like to learn more about the sustainability efforts of these and other Urban Natural workshop partners, or book a complimentary design consultation with our team of expert designers, feel free to drop us a line anytime.
