Selecting the right furniture is crucial when designing the perfect outdoor living space — and choosing the best material for that furniture can make all the difference in both style and functionality.
The three most popular materials for outdoor furniture are wicker, wood, and metal, each with its own unique aesthetic, level of durability, and maintenance requirements.
Whether you’re creating a cozy patio for morning coffee or a large entertaining area for summer parties, understanding the pros and cons of each material will help you make the right investment.
That is why in this article, we start by highlighting the pros and cons of each material before delving into how to choose the best material for your outdoor furniture. In the end, it should be a walk in the park to decide whether wicker, wood, or metal is the ideal choice for you.
Wicker
This one offers classic charm and casual comfort. Wicker furniture adds a touch of cozy elegance to any outdoor space.
While the term “wicker” refers to the weaving technique, modern outdoor wicker furniture is usually made from synthetic resin wrapped around a lightweight frame. This distinguishes it from traditional indoor wicker made of rattan or bamboo, which cannot withstand the elements.
Why Choose Wicker?
It is stylish and versatile. Wicker blends beautifully with classic, coastal, and bohemian decor themes, so it should match your outdoor décor, whatever it is.
Wicker is lightweight. It is easy to move and rearrange, making it ideal for flexible seating arrangements.
The material is weather-resistant. Resin wicker is built to resist UV rays, moisture, and changing temperatures, which are the arch enemies in any outdoor setup.
If you decide to go with wicker for your patio, we recommend choosing high-quality resin wicker such as what you find on this Canton Padded Club Swivel Rocker. Cheaper versions may fade, crack, or sag over time, and you don’t want that.
Avoid natural wicker outdoors unless you are putting it in a fully covered space. Also, wicker seating usually needs cushions for comfort, which adds to the overall cost and maintenance. Take a look at the Mia Swivel Glider Club Chair to get a picture of what we mean here.
What Is Wicker Best For?
Choose wicker for shaded patios, verandas, or screened-in porches where you want a warm, relaxed atmosphere without constant exposure to harsh elements.
Wood
Wood provides natural beauty and timeless strength. This is why wood remains a favorite for outdoor furniture — its natural appeal and strength make it suitable for many settings.
But not all woods are equally weather-resistant. Some are better suited to outdoor use and require less upkeep over time. These are the options you want to consider for your patio or backyard.
Top Wood Choices For Outdoor Furniture
Teak. This is highly durable and rich in natural oils, making it exceptionally resistant to rot, water, and destructive pests.
Eucalyptus. This is a more affordable hardwood with decent outdoor durability when you treat it properly.
Acacia
A budget-friendly option that looks great but may require more protection from moisture.
Cedar/Redwood
This wood type is naturally insect-resistant and aromatic, but softer and prone to wear without maintenance.
Overall, wood furniture adds warmth and elegance to any setting. Teak, in particular, develops a desirable silver-gray patina over time if left untreated, while still maintaining structural integrity.
Note that some homeowners prefer their furniture weathered into this silver-grey patina while others like the original golden hue. If you are the latter, consider refinishing or treating your wood with teak oil at least twice a year.
So, maintenance is part of the package. Not just for teak alone. To keep the rich tones and surface smoothness, most wood furniture needs periodic oiling or sealing. It’s also generally heavier than wicker or aluminum, which can be a pro or con depending on your needs.
However, if you want wood furniture without the hassle of routine maintenance, then Polywood furniture such as the Modern Adirondack Rocking Chair is ideal for you.
What Is Wood Best For?
Garden decks, natural landscapes, or rustic-themed patios. You will find wood ideal if you love timeless aesthetics and don’t mind seasonal upkeep.
Metal
Metal is ideal for sleek durability and modern appeal. Metal furniture offers the clean lines and industrial flair that modern outdoor spaces often call for. With a range of styles and coatings available, metal pieces can be both sleek and substantial — just make sure you choose the right type for your environment.
Common Types Of Metal Furniture
Aluminum
This type is rust-resistant, lightweight, and easy to clean, perfect for wet climates. A good example is the Palermo Swivel Rocker Dining Chair, which boasts exceptional comfort.
Steel
Steel is strong and supportive, but prone to rust if not coated or maintained properly.
Wrought Iron. This option is heavy and decorative, excellent in wind-prone areas but requires rust protection.
Why Choose Metal?
It is long-lasting. With the right care, metal furniture (especially aluminum or wrought iron) can last for decades.
It boasts a rich variety in style: Works well in minimalist, industrial, or even traditional outdoor setups depending on the design.
It is low maintenance: Especially aluminum, which typically needs only a quick wipe-down for daily maintenance.
One downside is that metal can heat up quickly in direct sun, making seats uncomfortable without cushions or shade. And while aluminum is easy to move, wrought iron and steel are very heavy — good for windy areas but tough to rearrange.
What Is Metal Best For?
Balconies, rooftops, or modern patios where you want sharp lines, durability, and a more polished look.
How to Choose the Right Material for Your Outdoor Furniture
Choosing between wicker, wood, and metal depends on a combination of practical needs, climate, and design preferences. When it’s time to go shopping for your outdoor furniture, these guidelines will help point you in the right direction.
1. Consider your local climate
If you live in a region with high humidity or frequent rain, resin wicker, aluminum, or Polywood furniture is a smart choice thanks to its resistance to moisture and rust.
In hot, dry climates, hardwoods like teak or eucalyptus hold up well but may require extra care to avoid UV damage.
For those living near the coast, it’s best to avoid untreated metal furniture, as salty air can accelerate corrosion.
2. Think about how much maintenance you are willing to do
If you prefer a low-maintenance lifestyle, materials like resin wicker and powder-coated aluminum are ideal — they can be left out most of the year with minimal upkeep.
Natural wood furniture, while beautiful, often needs regular oiling or sealing to maintain its color and durability. Similarly, wrought iron and steel, though strong and stylish, may require occasional touch-ups to prevent rust.
3. Consider your preferred design style
Wood and wicker naturally lend themselves to classic, rustic, or bohemian themes, while metal furniture — especially in sleek finishes — is better suited to modern or industrial aesthetics.
You can also experiment by mixing materials for a unique look, such as pairing a teak dining table with aluminum chairs such as the Albany Sling 5 Piece Dining Set for a blend of warmth and minimalism
If you're blending styles, try mixing materials, like a teak table with aluminum chairs.
4. Work within your budget
Finally, your budget plays a key role. For those looking for affordability without sacrificing style, resin wicker, and acacia wood are solid options.
However, if you're willing to invest in premium quality and longevity, teak and wrought iron offer exceptional durability and timeless appeal — making them worthwhile for long-term outdoor living spaces.
What Next?
Keep in mind that outdoor furniture is more than just decor — it plays a key role in how you relax, entertain, and enjoy the open-air spaces in your home. Whether you prefer the laid-back vibe of wicker, the organic richness of wood, or the resilient elegance of metal, each material offers something unique.
Understanding the characteristics of each material ensures you make the right choice to keep your outdoor space beautiful and functional for years.
We hope this piece helps you make a thoughtful investment now for more comfort, more style, and more outdoor memories in the future.