What are the best materials for outdoor furniture?

Materials that can withstand various weather conditions are most suitable for outdoor furniture. Here are a few examples:Teak: Teak is a dense hardwood known for its durability and resistance to rot, decay, and insects. You can use teak furniture year-round in all weather. Wrought iron: Heavy and sturdy, wrought iron is perfect for patios and balconies with a lot of wind. However, it doesn't withstand extreme cold or wet temperatures well.Rattan: Rattan is a natural material that works best in covered outdoor spaces. Although it can withstand rain and cold, repeated exposure will make it less sturdy and ruin its tidy woven look.Synthetic wicker: Often confused with rattan, synthetic wicker is a more durable alternative designed to resist fading, cracking, and weather damage.Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight, rust-resistant, and a popular choice for its affordability and versatility.Plastic: Budget-friendly and lightweight, plastic is perfect for outdoor kids' areas.Regardless of material, regular maintenance is the key to prolonging the life of all outdoor furniture. Some things to consider:Periodic cleaningInspecting for rust or damageUsing weather protective coveringRefinishing or repainting to revitalize the aesthetic

What types of outdoor furniture are best for small spaces?

Anything compact and versatile is best for small patios, porches, and gardens. Folding, drop-leaf, or wall-mounted tables are great options because they can accommodate tighter spaces, and you can easily get them out of the way. The same goes for outdoor chairs. Foldable and stackable varieties are ideal for a small space. Outdoor ottomans, poufs, and loveseats are also terrific because they offer comfortable seating while economizing on space. You can even consider multifunctional pieces, such as storage benches, to double as seating and a place to store items.

What is the average lifespan of outdoor furniture?

The quality of furniture materials, type of weather exposure, and frequency of maintenance all factor into how long the furniture in your outdoor oasis lasts. Generally speaking, high-quality teak can last up to 25 years with good maintenance. Wrought iron has a similar life span, though its maintenance is even more critical to ensure it doesn't rust. Less durable materials, such as aluminum, can last 15 to 20 years, while high-quality synthetic wicker or rattan will give you 10 to 15 years before you need to replace it. Unsurprisingly, plastic outdoor furniture has the shortest life span, ranging from a few years to 10 at the most.