Materials Guide to High-End Outdoor Furniture

Materials Guide to High-End Outdoor Furniture

Do you dream of an outdoor living space that is both stylish and inviting? A place where you can relax and unwind with friends and family or simply enjoy the fresh air and sunshine? If so, consider investing in high-end outdoor furniture.

Craftsmen use the finest materials and construction techniques to make high-end outdoor furniture. This way, they can withstand weather conditions and serve you well for many years.

It is natural to hesitate about buying high-end outdoor furniture online. To make an informed decision, you need to properly research your desired furniture type, its price and its brand. Our guide will help you make a smart investment. We will give you tips on how to select reputable sellers, buy solid material choices, and maintain your furniture like a pro.

Product Reviews: Best High-End Outdoor Furniture 2023

Before we go deep into the nitty gritties of high-end furniture material — let’s take a look at some of our best outdoor furniture pieces.

Best for Large Social Gatherings: Tortuga Outdoor Marquesas 7 Piece Wicker & Stone Dining Set

Looking for outdoor furniture that perfectly complements your contemporary art? Your search ends here with our high-end outdoor furniture set. It boasts a sleek design, a travertine tile table top, and premium synthetic resin wicker for that added touch of sophistication. 

The Tortuga Outdoor Dining Set combines functionality, style, and durability seamlessly. It can effortlessly complement the aesthetics of contemporary interiors, making it the ideal choice to enhance your outdoor space.

If you lead a hectic life, you'll appreciate the low-maintenance aspect of this set. Plus, whether you opt for the armchair or swivel rocking armchair, it easily adapts to accommodate gatherings of varying sizes, ensuring memorable moments with your loved ones.

Key Features

  • High-quality aluminum frames
  • Exceptional durability, resistant to stains, water, UV rays, cracks, and splits
  • Stackable chairs for convenient storage
  • Backed by a 2-year warranty for peace of mind
  • Easy cleaning with soap and water

Best Choice for Timeless Elegance: The Tortuga Outdoor Sea Pines Resin Wicker Dining Set

The Tortuga Outdoor Resin Wicker Dining Set, featuring a 48" round teak dining table, embodies outdoor elegance by seamlessly combining functionality and style. If you’re worried about common issues like staining, cracking, or fading — don’t be! 

Rest assured, this high-end outdoor furniture is designed to withstand the elements and retain its beauty for years, thanks to its all-weather synthetic resin wicker

Key Features

  • Stainless steel hardware for added longevity and resistance to corrosion.
  • UV synthetic resin wicker stabilizers protect against fading and damage from the sun's rays.
  • Sustainably harvested teak hardwood for an eco-friendliness
  • 3-year warranty
  • A 48" teak dining table with an umbrella opening.

Challenges Confronting Outdoor Furniture

Deciding between fixing up your old furniture or treating yourself to a shiny new set can leave you scratching your head. We recognize the importance of high-end outdoor furniture in enhancing the welcoming ambiance of your home. Having said that, we also realize the challenges and hiccups you may face with its upkeep.

Let's address the challenges you might encounter when choosing high-end outdoor furniture:

Problem

Description

Solutions

Weathering

Daily exposure to natural elements causes wear and tear on outdoor furniture.

  • Use weather-resistant materials like aluminum, teak, or resin wicker. 
  • Cover furniture or store it indoors during extreme weather.

Material Challenges

Various materials fade, crack, or discolor when exposed to outdoor conditions.

  • Choose outdoor furniture made of UV-resistant and weather-resistant materials. 
  • Apply protective coatings or treatments.

Humidity Effects

Humidity can make outdoor furniture lose its luster, become brittle, or crack.

  • Choose materials like synthetic rattan that are less susceptible to humidity. 
  • Use furniture covers when not in use.

Environmental Considerations

Some materials used in outdoor furniture production can harm ecosystems.

  • Go for eco-friendly materials like recycled plastic or sustainable wood. 
  • Research brands with eco-conscious practices.

Maintenance Struggles

High maintenance requirements can be impractical for busy individuals.

  • Select low-maintenance furniture like powder-coated metal or resin. 
  • Regularly clean and store the furniture properly.

Seasonal Constraints

Inability to withstand extreme weather conditions limits usability.

  • Invest in durable, all-weather furniture designed for your specific climate. 
  • Provide proper storage during harsh seasons.

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing The Right Materials for Your High-End Outdoor Furniture 

Wondering what materials are best for your high-end furniture? We list them down below and give their pros and cons.

Synthetic Rattan Wicker

Synthetic rattan wicker is a game-changer for outdoor furniture. It is crafted from a man-made fiber that replicates the appearance and texture of natural rattan. It's like a designer's dream come true for your outdoor projects.

The best part? The fibers used in synthetic rattan are woven just like their natural counterparts, so you get that authentic texture and style without any maintenance headaches.

Here's why you should make synthetic rattan your top choice for outdoor furniture:

  • Longevity: It will not be short-lived compared to natural rattan. It lasts you between 10 and 20 years.  
  • Weatherproof: Synthetic rattan is designed to be UV-resistant and waterproof. This makes it highly resilient to outdoor conditions.
  • Strength: It is stronger than natural rattan because it lacks the natural fibers that can weaken over time. 
  • Lightweight: Despite its strength, synthetic rattan is lightweight. This makes it easy to move and rearrange.
  • Low Maintenance: Unlike natural rattan, synthetic rattan requires minimal maintenance. 

Teak

Teak wood, scientifically known as Tectona grandis, originates from Southeast Asia, including India, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Indonesia. It holds a highly esteemed position in various industries thanks to its exceptional qualities.

Sticking to your budget regarding teak may seem like a difficult task. Although, you should know that teak wood's superiority shines through its longevity. 

Unlike cheaper, inferior timber options, teak furniture is built to last. Meaning, while you might pay more upfront, you won't need to replace it as often, saving you money in the long run. 

Moreover, teak is a highly regarded timber because of its:

Durability

Teak's durability is attributed to its high natural oil content and tight wood grain.  It can withstand exposure to various weather conditions, including rain and sun, without warping or deteriorating.

Versatility

Teak, a versatile timber, is perfect for crafting outdoor furniture in various styles, from natural to painted or varnished. Its timeless beauty effortlessly complements modern designs and contemporary art, making it an ideal choice for balanced outdoor spaces. 

Resistance to Rot, Termites, and Acids

Teak is naturally resistant to rotting, termite damage, and acids. Its abundant natural oils act as repellents, protecting the wood from moisture and unwanted insects.

Low Maintenance

Teak outdoor furniture requires minimal maintenance, even when uncovered outdoors. Over time, untreated teak weathers to a beautiful silvery gray color. It can be appreciated without much upkeep.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a metal known for its durability and resistance to rust. While focused on the more critical design decisions, you can effortlessly select furniture made from lightweight and durable aluminum, ensuring both practicality and style go hand-in-hand in your space.  


Here's why aluminum is suitable for outdoor furniture:

Durable and Weather Resistant

Aluminum can withstand weather conditions, including rain and sun, without rusting or decaying. 

Low Maintenance and Eco-Friendly

Aluminum outdoor furniture is a breeze to clean. Just a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth, and you're good to go! Plus, if you're environmentally conscious and want your choices to go beyond just picking furniture, here's something great to know: 


Aluminum is one of the most recycled and recyclable materials. That means, not only will you enjoy a great outdoor experience — but you'll also be doing your part for the environment. Win-win. 

Highly Versatile

Aluminum outdoor furniture comes in various colors, styles, and silhouettes, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your outdoor space. It pairs well with multiple furniture types, offering design flexibility.

Stainless steel offers:

  • Corrosion Resistance: Chromium forms a protective "passive layer" to prevent corrosion, making it ideal if you want something that will last you in the long-run.
  • Recyclability: Stainless steel is sustainable and recyclable, often containing recycled materials.
  • Longevity: Well-maintained stainless steel is durable and can endure harsh weather, providing long-lasting outdoor furniture.

Stone

Stone is a naturally occurring solid substance composed of minerals or mineral-like materials. Stone’s innate strength ensures that it can withstand the elements, making it an excellent option for enduring outdoor furniture that retains its visual charm.

Durability

Stone furniture doesn't dent, scratch, rust, tarnish, or bend like wood, plastic, or metal. It can withstand severe weather conditions.

Low Maintenance

Stone requires minimal maintenance. Rain showers often clean it, so you don't need to worry about polishing or re-staining it. 

Expert Tips: Shopping Online for Premium Outdoor Furniture Materials

Shopping for furniture online can be a daunting experience, especially if you are hesitant about making such significant purchases digitally. 

By following these tips, you can navigate online furniture shopping with confidence and find the perfect pieces for your home:

    • Pay close attention to product descriptions for material, size, and care details.
    • Customer reviews provide valuable insights into furniture quality, comfort, and durability.
    • Zoom in on high-resolution product images to assess materials and craftsmanship.
    • Research the material's properties, durability, and suitability for your lifestyle.
    • Measure your space to ensure the furniture fits comfortably.
    • Reach out to customer service for prompt assistance.
    • Seek expert guidance through virtual consultations.
    • Check for eco-friendly or safety certifications.
    • Shop from well-established online furniture retailers.
    • Consider extended warranties for added peace of mind.
    • Explore educational resources for informed decisions.

FAQs About High-End Outdoor Furniture Materials

Still have questions about the best high-end outdoor furniture materials? We answered the most popular ones below.

What Type of Fabric Is Best for Outdoor Furniture?

The best fabric types for outdoor furniture are typically Sunbrella Acrylics, olefin, or polyester. They are durable and resistant to sun exposure. They handle spills well and are easy to clean during social gatherings. 

What Is the Best Type of Glass To Use for High-End Outdoor Furniture?

Tempered glass is resistant to temperature changes, making it ideal for high-end outdoor furniture. Additionally, tempered glass is hard to break, reducing the risk of injury, and its weight makes it less likely to tip or fly off. 

How Should I Clean and Care For My Patio Furniture?

Clean with a material-specific method (e.g., soap and water for plastic, wood cleaner for wood), inspect for damage, and protect from weather when not in use to extend its lifespan.

Conclusion 

You deserve an outdoor living space that is both stylish and inviting. A place where you can relax and unwind with friends and family or simply enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. To achieve this, you need high-end outdoor furniture that is durable, comfortable, and elegant.

Modern Wicker can help you create your dream outdoor space with our range of multifunctional outdoor sets, luxurious lounging chairs, and elegant fire pits. We have the best materials, brands, and styles to suit your taste and budget. We also provide comprehensive product details and customer support to ensure your satisfaction. 

Don’t hesitate to contact us today and let us help you elevate your outdoor spaces.

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Adam Fromson

About the Author

Adam Fromson

Adam Fromson, co-founder of Modern Wicker, understands the importance of spaces that are both inviting and stylish. With a longtime love of hosting gatherings – whether an intimate family barbecue or large, annual get-togethers – Adam’s passion lies in sharing what he has learned so that others can easily create entertaining spaces that inspire connection.