What Outdoor Furniture Lasts the Longest?

Shopping for furniture for your yard or patio? Let’s talk about what outdoor furniture lasts the longest and some great tips for maintaining and caring for it!

Adding furniture to your porch or patio is a great way to transform the space. Obviously it gives the space functionality. It’s also really beautiful and can make an outdoor space feel even larger.

However, outdoor furniture could be very pricey and a bit of an investment to buy.

That’s why you want to buy something durable.

Let’s talk about the different types and materials of outdoor furniture available and their durability and care needs.

The types of outdoor furniture

Outdoor furniture is typically wither wood, plastic, resin, or metal. Here are considerations for each!

Wood

Wood is a super common natural material for outdoor furniture. But, it is going to rot, crack, dry out, and get damaged over time.

The best wooden outdoor furniture is going to be made from a naturally rot-resistant wood like cedar or cypress. This wood will last longer than typical wood species like pine or oak outdoors.

Wood outdoor furniture should also be treated with a sealant for extra protection. I suggest an oil based spar urethane or tung oil for a more natural finish.

Maintenance Tips for Wood Furniture

The best way to make wood furniture last longer is to maintain it well. Here’s what to do to wood furniture:

• Clean it regularly – wipe or blow off any debris as soon as you see it
• Deep clean it annually – scrub with a brush or use a pressure washer for a deep clean
• When the seal starts to come off, sand the surface and apply a new coat of sealant

Plastic

Plastic furniture is super common. It’s great because it is lightweight and durable. Plastic will not rot or break down – but it will fade, dry out, and can get brittle from the sun and rain.

Maintenance Tips for Plastic Furniture

Here’s how to maintain your plastic outdoor furniture.

• Easy cleaning with soap and water.
• Store it away or cover during extreme weather conditions.
• Apply an outdoor furniture protectant to revitalize and protect the surface.

Resin

Resin furniture is great because it is weather-resistant, low maintenance, and lightweight.

A lot of “wicker” furniture is actually resin – if it feels like a hard plastic, it is likely resin. There is also resin made to look like wood.

Maintenance Tips for Resin Furniture

Resin furniture is easy to maintain!

• Regular cleaning with mild soap and water.
• Use protective covers to extend life and maintain appearance.
• Apply an outdoor furniture protectant to revitalize and protect the surface.

Metal

Metal furniture is super durable and can last for decades. Our set was my granny’s in the 1950s! However, it will rust if exposed to the elements and not protected.

Aluminum is more rust resistant, lightweight, and durable.

Wrought Iron has a classic look and is super heavy. It will rust if not maintained.

Stainless steel is super durable and resistant to rust and corrosion.

Maintenance Tips for Metal Furniture

Metal furniture does need a bit of maintenance to keep in top shape.

• Keep covered or protected from the elements whenever possible.
• If paint begins to chip, peel, or show rust, repair ASAP to avoid a larger problem.
• If very rusty, sand clean, prime, and re-paint. Here’s our guide on how to paint metal patio furniture.

What Outdoor Furniture Lasts the Longest?

The most durable materials for outdoor furniture are teak wood, resin plastic, and powder coated aluminum. Well cared for outdoor furniture is going to last the longest – any material that is frequently cleaned, sealed, and stored in the off season.

Choosing furniture made from these materials and caring for it well ensures a lasting investment for your outdoor spaces.

Tips for Making Your Outdoor Furniture Last Longer

Well-cared for furniture will last longer, no matter the material.

Regular Cleaning: It’s super important to keep furniture clean to prevent buildup of dirt and grime.

Protective Covers: Using covers will help to protect furniture from rain, sun, and snow.

Proper Storage: Storing furniture indoors during off-seasons is a great way to prevent damage.

Immediate Repairs: Addressing minor damages immediately will help to prevent them from worsening.

Choosing the Right Location: Placing furniture in spots that minimize exposure to harsh weather conditions.

With these steps and extra care, you can help your furniture last for years!