Outdoor furniture needs to be tough enough to last as well as look good over many seasons, and a variety of weather conditions. There are a variety of factors you need to consider before you select the right material for your outdoor furniture.

Rain & Moisture

If you live in an area where it rains often or has high humidity, you want to ensure that the furniture material is resistant to damage from various moisture and water-based issues. Moisture can not only damage the material, it can also lead to health risks.

Mold, Mildew & Rot

Humidity and moisture are ideal for fungi to thrive. Materials that retain water are prone to mold and mildew, which can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues. Rot may even lead to decay of the material.

Corrosion

Furniture made with iron or steel is vulnerable to rust and corrosion if exposed to water and oxygen for long periods. The corrosion weakens these metals, resulting in discoloration and disintegration. If there is salt in the air and water, it can further accelerate the process.

Warping

Water penetration can also result in warping of the furniture. With time, it can distort the material, loosening screws or other fasteners that hold the furniture together.

Sun and Temperature

If you live in a sunny location, you should look for outdoor materials that can withstand damage from the UV rays of the Sun. Constant exposure to the sun can cause fading, discoloration or uneven spotting.

Some materials may expand and contract with day and night temperatures, leading to cracking, splitting, warping.

Metallic furniture can become too hot in the Sun, making it uncomfortable, or even unsafe, to touch.

Wind

If you live in an extremely windy area, your outdoor furniture should be heavy enough to not get blown away.

Durability

Some outdoor materials may last for years, without much maintenance, such as teak. But others may wear out easily, leading the need to replace them frequently. In addition, the higher the frequency of usage, the more durable the materials should be.

Maintenance

While some materials require very little care, and are easy to clean, others require special care and specific products to keep them looking good and working properly. Select lower maintenance materials, if you don’t have much time to spend caring for your outdoor furniture.

Cost

The last, but definitely not the least, important factor is the cost of the furniture. Some materials are cheaper but may not be durable or require high maintenance while others may be more expensive upfront but require little maintenance, proving to be more cost-effective. For example, teak outdoor furniture may be a little more expensive at the time of buying but can last you for years. It develops a gray patina as it ages which makes it look even more elegant and beautiful. In addition, teak produces its own natural oils which keep it safe from pests, such as termites.

If you are looking for the best outdoor teak wood furniture online, such as Anderson Teak Furniture, check out Tuff Hut.