Your Guide to Choosing Long-Lasting Outdoor Furniture
Dec. 23, 2024
Your Guide to Choosing Long-Lasting Outdoor Furniture
Have you been wanting to create your dream outdoor space, but dont know where to start? Perhaps youve purchased outdoor furniture before, only to have it deteriorate after a year or two.
e-lansure are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.
The right piece of furniture for your outdoor living space should not only be aesthetically pleasing, but it should withstand exposure to the elements season after season. Because outdoor spaces are becoming more valuable than ever before, its important to choose high-quality, durable pieces that are better for the environment. Not only will these pieces last longer for you, but theyll be less likely to end up in a landfill after only a years use.
This article will help you understand what types of materials are made to withstand the test of time. Long-lasting outdoor furniture pieces rely not only on material quality but also craftsmanship and designand are proven to be worth the investment.
Premium Outdoor Furniture Materials
When the weather gets warmer and outdoor living calls your name, its tempting to purchase low-quality pieces with an inexpensive price tag. What many homeowners dont consider is how quickly replacement costs add up if youre purchasing new outdoor furniture every few years. Exposure to the elements such as wind and rain will quickly deteriorate cheaply-made outdoor furniture, so its worth the investment to opt for premium materials. Plus, better quality materials are better suited for year-round use. Take a look at our materials guide to learn about materials that promise both style and durability.
Teak
Teak wood is derived from teak wood trees called Tectona grandis and is largely considered to be the gold standard for wooden outdoor furniture. As a premium material, teak is known for its durability and low maintenance needs. Teak is weather-resistant, repels moisture, and naturally deters pests such as termites. Its resistance to mildew and weather makes it a popular choice for long-lasting outdoor furniture. See more about teak vs. other wooden furniture in our outdoor wood furniture buyers guide.
Recycled HDPE
Synthetic materials such as High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) are not only weather-resistant; theyre also environmentally sustainable. HDPE is made of landfill-bound plastics and can easily handle the wear and tear of weather conditions. The result is outdoor furniture that is both comfortable, durable, and offers a unique aesthetic to your outdoor spacetake our Low Chair, for example.
Steel
Steel is often used in high-end outdoor furniture designs, as its corrosion-resistant, durable, and feels modern in an outdoor space. Steel is heavier than aluminum, and wont blow away in heavier winds. Its durability will allow stainless steel pieces to hold their shape for years to come. Because of its anti-corrosion qualities, we have committed to using stainless steel in all of our fasteners, and hardware.
Aluminum
Aluminum may be lightweight, but dont let that fool youits incredibly strong and corrosion-resistant, especially when powder-coated. Aluminum furniture, like our Terra Coffee Table, is low-maintenance, easy to clean, and extremely durable. This material is a popular choice in furniture frames because it can easily be combined with other materials such as rattan to give your outdoor area a unique and stylish appearance.
Rattan and Wicker
Rattan, the thin pliable stems of a palm, have been traditionally used in the construction of indoor wicker furniture, along with other natural materials. This type of natural wicker is not especially weather-resistant, and can easily fade or fray with excessive exposure year-round.
Weather wicker, on the other hand, is made of synthetic materials such as polyethylene and is much more durable. Synthetic wicker is designed to withstand moisture, sunlight, and harsh weather conditions, making it a more long-lasting option for outdoor furniture.
Ipe Wood
Hardwoods such as Ipe wood are excellent choices for outdoor furniture because of their durability and natural resistance to damage and warping. Even with years of exposure to outdoor elements, Ipe wood naturally repels water and insects. It offers unique grain patterns and a natural, classic look to your outdoor patio. While durable, Ipe wood often requires yearly maintenance, which is something to consider when purchasing.
Exemplary Craftsmanship
High-quality craftsmanship not only contributes to the durability of your outdoor furnitureit also enhances its beauty and aesthetic appeal. When purchasing a new piece of furniture, look for pieces that offer both quality and sustainability, particularly in these elements:
-
Joinery and Construction: Joinery techniques contribute to outdoor furniture's strength and longevity. A well-constructed furniture set will not cut corners on joinery and fixings for the sake of cost. At Neighbor, we never compromise during productionall of our pieces use marine-grade hardware and go through rigorous inspections.
-
Finishing Touches: Finishing options are another way to protect your furniture. A well-applied protectant can protect against warping, rotting, and other weather-induced damage. Many of our pieces can be left outside all year.
-
Customization Options: Many high-end retailers offer customizable options to suit different outdoor living spaces. Customizing a high-quality piece of furniture allows you to make your outdoor living space personal and unique.
Design and Functionality
You shouldnt have to compromise design for functionalityoutdoor furniture sets should offer a blend of durability, comfort, function, and style. At Neighbor, our thoughtfully designed pieces are perfect illustrations of what functional, unique furniture should look like.
Furniture Types and Styles
When it comes to deciding what type of outdoor furniture to purchase, consider your primary goals for your outdoor space. Looking to entertain large groups in style? Neighbor offers dining sets and multipurpose sectionals to help you throw the party of your dreams. Want a more intimate setting? Take a look at our lounge chairs and loveseats for a cozy outdoor setup. Whatever your needs, consider choosing quality, long-lasting furniture that you can enjoy for seasons to come.
Outdoor Dining and Lounging
Two of the most popular furniture choices for an outdoor space are outdoor dining sets and lounge sets such as sectionals and sofas. Dining alfresco is much more enjoyable with furniture that is comfortable and can be left outside through each season, like our Haven Dining Set constructed from durable teak.
From sectionals to sofas, loveseats to chaises, Neighbor offers beautifully designed lounge options that are made to last. Our Haven Sectional has a modular, modern design and can be customized to fit any space.
Additional Features
To complete the look of your outdoor living room or dining space, add some additional features and accessories to both enhance and prolong the usability of your outdoor furniture. Consider the following features as ways of complimenting your outdoor space:
-
Patio Umbrellas. Invest in a quality patio umbrella that will not only provide shade and protection from the elements but will also last through the seasons. Also consider our XY Round Dining Table, designed to resist all weather and fit perfectly with outdoor umbrellas with its built-in umbrella base.
-
Fire Pits: Fire pit tables are a stylish way to enhance your outdoor experience and can be used as a centerpiece when gathering with friends and family. Our Rook Fire Table is a great option.
-
Furniture Covers. Protective furniture covers are easy to use and will prolong the life of your outdoor pieces by protecting them from harsh weather conditions.
- Water-Resistant Upholstery. Neighbors recycled Sunbrella fabric is an innovative material that is fade-proof, stain-resistant, and easy to clean.
Additional Considerations for Longevity
The last thing a homeowner wants is to have to purchase new outdoor furniture after only a year or two. Quality outdoor furniture can be an investment, and there are other factors to consider to make the most informed decision. Here are some more elements to take into account when buying outdoor furniture for your dream space.
Warranty and Retailer Reputation
Its worth the effort to do some research on the retailer or company when making a new outdoor furniture purchase. What values are important to you, and does the retailer share those same values? At Neighbor, we are committed to top-notch customer service, providing quality furniture, and operating with honesty and integrity.
Additionally, a homeowner should strongly consider the importance of a warranty when investing in new outdoor furniture. A solid warranty will cover various aspects of wear and tear on your furniture, allowing you to purchase with confidence. Check out our warranty policy here.
Climate Considerations
Its important to take your home locations climate into consideration, specifically how the climate and weather may impact your choice of outdoor furniture materials. Do you live in a particularly humid climate? Consider mold and mildew-resistant materials like teak or powder-coated aluminum metal furniture. Are windy conditions a factor? Think about purchasing outdoor furniture made of heavier materials such as stainless steel.
Discover Your Outdoor Haven
Outdoor living spaces, like their indoor counterparts, are worth investing in high-quality, durable furniture. Look for the most durable outdoor furniture that will withstand the wear and tear of daily life. Its worth investing in long-lasting pieces that you can enjoy for years to come. At Neighbor, we believe you dont have to sacrifice style for durabilitywe offer sophisticated, modern pieces that are made to last. Visit our Outdoor Lounge page to start creating the outdoor space of your dreams.
The Winners of Our Best Patio Furniture Tests
For more information on how we tested patio furniture, check out our testing process below.
Because there are so many different patio furniture designs out there, it can be difficult to decide which options are durable, stylish, and worth the money. To help you find the right fit for your home, we tested some great patio dining sets , benches, and other seating right at home.
As with any project, we recommend that you primarily design for your lifestyle, says Alexandra Davin , interior decorator at Davin Interiors. Think about the space and how youd truly like to use it. Do you want to nap on a comfy sofa with outdoor cushions? Or would you prefer a table and chairs so you can dine al fresco?
Your outdoor space is an extension of your home, so its understandable if you want to create your own personal oasis, whether you have a small balcony or a sprawling patio. Twinkling string lights and potted plants aside, however, youll also need durable, comfortable, and stylish outdoor furniture to finish off the space.
Best Accent Chair
Better Homes & Gardens Tarren Wicker Outdoor Accent Chair with Cushions
Why You Should Get It
Everything needed to assemble the item was included in the box.
Keep in Mind
The cushion covers arent removable.
After testing this outdoor accent chair, we found it to be of excellent value, especially for its comfort and durability. We found it to be particularly impressive because it withstood Hawaii wind, rain, sandy feet, food crumbs, and even dirty dog paws. Small stains rubbed off easily with a wet paper towel, but a soft cloth and mild soap is recommended, as the cushion covers are not removable.
The chair arrived as just one wide box. Inside was everything needed to assemble the item, which is great for those without a large amount of tools on hand. Assembly took approximately 45 minutes, including unboxing and breaking down boxes when finished.
We found the chair to be perfect for settling in to read a good book or enjoy an outdoor snack with our dog at our side. The chair felt sturdy and secure, despite the wicker feeling a bit plasticky. We found it to be overall well made, especially for the price point.
Product Details: Number of Pieces: One | Material: Steel, polyethylene wicker, and weather-resistant fiberfill | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Best Chaise
Polywood Coastal Chaise
Why You Should Get It
Its comfortable and easy to clean.
Keep in Mind
The chaise is on the pricier side compared to others, but it comes with a 20-year warranty.
Setup for this Polywood chaise was straightforward, and the instructions included diagrams that were easy to understand. We found the chair lighter than expected, which allowed for easy movement around a patio or outdoor space. It also included a set of wheels to help with moving the chaise as needed.
We especially appreciated its comfort factorwe found it enjoyable in its upright, angled, and reclined positions. The upright position is great for reading while we found the reclined and flat positions better for lounging in the sun. The sling fabric felt comfortable against bare skin.
Since it is made of polywood, the chaise is safe for wet climates as it can be scrubbed or power washed of any mildew or dirt. Compared to other options we tested, the chaise is pricey, but it comes with a 20-year warranty.
Product Details: Number of Pieces: One | Material: Plastic | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Best Bench
Grandin Road Amalfi Bench
Why You Should Get It
Its a sturdy and supportive seating option.
Keep in Mind
The chair cushion is sold separately.
The Grandin Road Amalfi Bench is a great choice for a front porch or if you need additional seating in your garden. It only took us about 30 minutes to assemble and since its not very heavy, we could easily move it around.
The bench is offered in five different colors, so youll be able to choose which one that suits your space. We placed it on our front entry patio and while we wouldnt recommend lounging in it for a long time, it was a comfortable spot to sit. It felt sturdy overall, and we also liked the height of the back of the chair as it offered some additional back support.
There is a cushion for this bench, but keep in mind that its sold separately. We purchased a white cushion, and it does show stains from dirt and debris. Since the cushion can only be spot cleaned, wed recommend purchasing a different color.
We tested this bench for an entire year and left it uncovered, exposing it to rain, wind, hail, and snow. The bench remained in great condition and we didn't notice any warping, discoloration, or other damage. We recommend purchasing a seat cushion for added comfort, though we still thought this bench was a great purchase overall.
Product Details: Number of Pieces: One | Material: Wood | Weight Capacity: Not listed
Best Dining Set
Article Lubek Dining Set
Why You Should Get It
It has adjustable leveling feet, which are effective at preventing unsteadiness on uneven surfaces like stone.
Keep in Mind
The benches are heavy and not easily movable.
The Lubek dining table earned the title as our favorite dining set for its sleek and distinct look. The table and benches are made of acacia wood with industrial powder-coated steel legs. The benches are heavyso much so that we recommended another persons assistance when moving. The benches have adjustable leveling feet, which helped keep them stable on our uneven stone patio.
Each bench comfortably sits four people, so eight total can use them for outdoor meals. We found the benches wide enough that it was easy to slide back if youd prefer more distance between you and the table.
The set was delivered with Articles white glove delivery, and assembly only took the delivery team 45 minutes to complete. Plus, they took the boxes and packing materials with them once assembly was complete.
As far as durability, the set did not have any immediate fading or damage after a few rainy and stormy days. The brand recommends avoiding sharp temperature changes and indoor storage is suggested for rainier or colder climates. Article also mentions that small cracks and fissures may happen with changes in humidity and temperature, which is natural for solid wood furniture.
The acacia wood will have some variations in color or texture and eventually, it weathers to a softer gray color with time. Despite the higher price, a cover isnt included, but purchasing one will help prevent long-term damage.
Product Details: Number of Pieces: Three | Material: Acacia and steel | Weight Capacity: Not listed
Best Small Dining Set
The Pioneer Woman Goldie Garden Bistro Set
Why You Should Get It
It only took 30 minutes to assemble, and the chairs were lightweight and easy to move.
Keep in Mind
Its only offered in one color.
This bistro set by The Pioneer Woman is the perfect patio furniture if youre furnishing a small space. The set includes two chairs and a compact table and can work on a patio, in a garden, or even on a balcony.
We were able to set up the table and chairs within 30 minutes and two sets of hands, which we recommend if you purchase this set. Though we were initially overwhelmed by the amount of parts it came with, the instructions were clear and it was easier than we anticipated.
Although bistro sets are compact, we felt that this set seemed small. However, we appreciated the height of the seat in comparison to the table and felt that it was a great space to enjoy a cup of coffee or a small meal. Just keep in mind that the set is only offered in a bold teal shade that may not suit everyones taste.
This set was tested in Des Moines, Iowa and was subjected to both heavy rain showers and very hot days. Regardless of the weather, the set held up and we didnt notice any damage or fading throughout the testing period.
The set is made of aluminum, so it was lightweight and easy to move. Though we noted that the pieces felt cheaper than we would have expected, the chairs still felt sturdy and supportive.
We put this bistro set in our backyard and noted that it could withstand rain, snow, and the sun. There were some minor chips of paint but other than that, we didn't see any rust or discoloration throughout the set. Overall, we found it sturdy and comfortable to use and we also liked the design, which made for a decorative addition to our space.
Product Details: Number of Pieces: Three | Material: Aluminum | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds (chairs)
-
Want more information on outdoor furniture daybeds? Feel free to contact us.
Best Egg Chair
Better Homes & Gardens Bellamy Round Wicker Outdoor Egg Chair
Why You Should Get It
Its spacious and comfortable to sit in for long periods of time.
Keep in Mind
The set can withstand light weather, but we found it safer to store cushions indoors if heavy rain is in the forecast.
If youre looking for an egg chair to add to your backyard space, this wicker version received high marks in our tests for comfort and affordability. We found the chair to be durable, withstanding spring weather extremes (including rain, snow, cold, sun, and wind). Given it held up well to light moisture exposure, we think its ideal for a semi-exposed outdoor area like a balcony or covered patio. We did not notice any color fading from the sun in our tests.
Assembly took one hour and 20 minutes, but despite the time, we found the chair straightforward to put together, and a socket wrench is included.
The chair is large enough to lay back on or sit cross-legged, and we spent time both reading and working in it. The cushions it comes with are removable and we found them comfortable to sit on or lay against for long periods of time. We think the seat is wide enough to feasibly seat two people, but keep in mind that the weight capacity is 350 pounds.
We found the cushions easy to wipe clean, noting dirt didnt stick to the fabric. If the cushion covers need more cleaning, they are removable and washable.
Product Details: Number of Pieces: Four | Material: Hand-woven, all-weather wicker (chair), polyester (cushions) | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Best Table
Crate & Barrel Lanai Fliptop Dining Table
Why You Should Get It
Its a sturdy and well-made table that folds for easy storage.
Keep in Mind
The dark color may get hot in high temperatures.
If you already own patio chairs and want to add a table to your setup, we recommend this Crate & Barrel table, which is ideally sized for two to four people. At less than 36 inches wide, its a great size for apartment balconies or smaller patios. The dark slated tabletop is a versatile look that can fit in both modern and traditional patio designs.
In addition to its rustproof aluminum build, the table is lightweight and is foldable for easy storage. A rubber backing protects the tabletop when it folds down, a thoughtful feature we appreciated.
This table received high marks for withstanding wind, snow, and rain during its testing period. For cleaning, vacuuming or light brushing to remove debris is recommended. It is advised to cover or store the item indoors during the winter or extreme weather conditions.
Assembly was simple, taking us less than 10 minutes. Leveling feet are built in to help with uneven surfaces.
Product Details: Number of Pieces: One | Material: Aluminum | Weight Capacity: Not listed
Best Wicker Seating
Devoko Wicker Patio Conversation Set
$120
Why You Should Get It
The set was able to withstand rain showers during testing.
Keep in Mind
The removable cushion covers have to be spot cleaned.
This Devoko Wicker Patio Conversation Set is ideal for your outdoor space if you have a small area or just want to add some extra seating. We placed it on our wooden deck and found that it was a comfortable spot to lounge.
This Devoko furniture set had a straightforward assembly that only took us about an hour to complete. We especially appreciated that all the screws were the same size, so it was easy to just grab one as you needed it.
Overall, we liked the set and thought it was a good spot for regular sitting, like enjoying a cup of coffee. The chairs feature a curved back that offers subtle support, and we never felt any pain or discomfort while using them. We also used the set to entertain guests that are senior citizens, and they remarked that the seats were comfortable to use.
We experienced two thunderstorms while testing this set and were pleased with how it held up both times. There were some beads of water on the cushions and they didnt take too long to dry. Though the pieces held up well, wed still recommend bringing them in ahead of inclement weather, especially since the removable cushion covers are not machine washable.
The set was tested in the Pacific Northwest for six months and was able to withstand both wind and rain. We were not as diligent as we should have been with bringing the chair cushions inside during bouts of rain, but we ended up liking the look of the set more without them anyway. We didn't notice any wear and tear on the set. Leaves, seeds, and other debris often got stuck in the intricate design, but it was easy to wipe them off.
Product Details: Number of Pieces: Three | Material: Steel and rattan | Weight Capacity: 330 pounds (per chair)
Best Wood Set
Christopher Knight Home Carolina Outdoor Sofa Set
$515
$374
Why You Should Get It
It didnt experience any weather damage during testing.
Keep in Mind
We noted that the seats felt thin.
After testing this Christopher Knight Carolina Sofa Set, we noted that it was one of the best pieces weve ever owned. The four-piece set includes a small sofa, two chairs, and a coffee table, and we found that it was a comfortable spot to sit in.
The furniture arrived completely unassembled in one box, and we needed two people to carry it. The pieces were packaged well, and we especially liked that the hardware set for each furniture piece was organized into its own bag, making assembly easy.
The chairs are a bit narrow and might be tight for larger users. That being said, the pieces in the set were comfortable and stylishwe had guests over and a few even bought the set after trying ours. Just keep in mind that the sets sofa seemed more like a loveseat that could comfortably seat two people, so its not ideal if you need it to entertain large groups.
The furniture experienced both very hot weather and heavy rain with moderate wind, neither of which impacted the pieces. We didnt notice any fading or damage while trying them out and felt that the pieces were secure overall.
During long-term testing, we felt that the frame and table weighed enough to withstand being left outside during inclement weather. We often brought the cushions inside, however, and noted they sometimes became lightly stained by bird droppings, dirt, and other debris.
The cushions could be easily washed, but we appreciated that they were reversible so we could keep the cleaner side up between cleanings.
We didn't notice any damage to the set and after six months, we liked the rustic patina that was forming. If we could change anything, we would have liked if the arms on the chair were wider so we could rest a beverage on it. Otherwise, we thought this set was a great value.
Product Details: Number of Pieces: Four | Material: Acacia wood | Weight Capacity: Not listed
Best Aluminum Seating
Article Calicut Loveseat Set
Why You Should Get It
The delivery team placed the furniture where we wanted it and unboxed it for us.
Keep in Mind
Its only offered in two colors and doesnt include a coffee table.
Articles Calicut Coast Loveseat Set may be more of an investment than other options but after testing the set at home, its some of the best patio furniture we tried. The three-piece set includes a loveseat and two chairs that we felt were both supportive and comfortable.
The set is offered in either black or gray and is made of aluminum, a durable and lightweight material. It was delivered a few days after we ordered it and we loved that it was placed where we wanted it on our cement patio and unboxed the pieces for us, making assembly seamless.
While using the set, we noticed that the cushion fabric never got hot or sticky, and while the pieces were also subject to some bird droppings, they were easy to wipe down. We also experienced storms, strong sunshine, and fire-induced smog during testing, none of which seemed to cause any issues for the pieces.
Its worth noting that the set does not come with a table, a feature we wish was included. Otherwise, we loved the set overall and are confident that itll last for years to come.
This set looked good as new even after we left it uncovered in rain storms, heat waves, and other inclement weather over the course of six months. During testing, kids jumped on it, dogs and cats sat on it, and we ate on it, and there wasn't any damage to the cushions or the furniture. Although it's an investment, we think its durability and that it comes assembled makes it worth the splurge.
Product Details: Number of Pieces: Three | Material: Aluminum | Weight Capacity: Not listed
For more outdoor aluminum coffee tablesinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
0
0
0
Previous: None
Comments
All Comments (0)