What kind of outdoor furniture should you choose? A lot depends on your style as certainly there is no shortage of high quality, attractive furniture in a variety of materials suitable for outdoor use.
Wood:
Wood furniture is a good pick for you if you prefer a casual, warm and natural style. Besides, the natural look of wood is a great fit for an outdoor setting.
It is a traditional and classic material that is available in a many varieties. Some popular wood choices for outdoors are teak, eucalyptus, cedar, pine and oak.
Its many benefits include durability and low maintenance. The natural oils in some types of wood, such as teak, protect it against rot and harsh weather, extreme temperatures and high humidity.
Wicker:
If you prefer a cozy, rustic or country style then consider wicker. Used indoors and out, it is a versatile and lightweight material made from many different naturally occurring materials such as bamboo, rattan, cane, etc.
Traditionally it was available in neutral colors, but now comes in many shades. All-weather wicker is suitable for outdoor use and is made from woven synthetics.
Wicker is lightweight, sturdy and easy to clean which may account for the fact that its popularity doesn’t seem to wane.
Want to find out more about wicker? Take a look at What is Wicker? Aluminum:
For a contemporary, streamlined look aluminum seems to be a good choice. Since it is so popular, there are many designs and styles available in this material.
Aluminum is lightweight, sturdy and easily moved from one spot to the other. An additional benefit to choosing aluminum is that it is easy to maintain as it cleans easily, resists corrosion and can hold its own even when left outside for long periods.
Wrought Iron:
For a formal, classic outdoor environment wrought iron comes to mind.
It is a strong, hardy material and styles in wrought iron range from contemporary to traditional. It lends a look of luxury, and because of its weigh, wrought iron will not tip easily. This trait makes it ideal for windy environments.
Wrought iron furniture does require some care to prevent rusting and corrosion.
Mixed Materials:
If you have an eclectic style, why stop at just one material? You don’t have to as you can mix different materials to get the look that you want. You can mix different design styles, too.
So why not place a teak table with your wrought iron chairs? Or a glass top table with your wicker furniture? You can also have a chair that combines different materials such as wood and some kind of metal. The possibilities are endless.
