Top Materials for Weather-Resistant Outdoor Sofas
When your house looks nice on the inside, your outdoor living space should be on par with it, right? The problem is, you can’t really put indoor furniture outside. So when you want to hang out outside, you might need to consider choosing the right material for your outdoor sofa. The looks of it should be nice, but it should also be durable enough to withstand weather conditions like intense sun and rain, temperature changes, and humidity. So if you’re here looking for a great outdoor sofa material, then you’re on the right track. Here are the top 5 materials for a weather-resistant outdoor seat that will surely make your investments last.
Teak Wood
One of the top choices for your outdoor sofa is teak wood, as it is exceptionally durable and can withstand natural elements. This hardwood is surely rich in natural oils that make it resistant to moisture, insects, and decay. Teak wood can also last for decades with very minimal maintenance. And most importantly, it has an aesthetic appeal. It has a rich golden brown color with smooth wood grains. Classic. Luxurious. Very good for outdoor space.
To maintain that golden hue, we recommend you do periodic oiling. But if you prefer a silver gray patina, then minimal maintenance is required.
Though teak wood has that expensive look, it is also actually relatively expensive. But its longevity justifies your investment.
Aluminum
One of the most popular materials for weather-resistant outdoor furniture is aluminum. It is lightweight in nature and resistant to rust and corrosion. If you are looking for a low-maintenance and modern outdoor sofa, then this is an excellent choice.
Since it does not rust, it is good for humid or coastal environments. With their lightweight feature, it is sure easy to move them from one place to another. You can rearrange your furniture every now and then if you want. And it requires only occasional cleaning to make it look fresh.
But aluminum can get dents or scratches. So be mindful of heavy usage or handling. And if your aluminum soda is exposed to direct sunlight, it can also get quite hot. So it is recommended to cover it with cushions for added comfort.
Resin Wicker
These are made from synthetic fibers. They offer the classic look of traditional wicker with more durability. It is weather-resistant, UV-resistant, and much easier to clean. A practical choice for your outdoor seat.
Synthetic resin is made to withstand moisture, sun exposure, and fluctuating temperatures. It can also be available in different colors and styles. You can personalize your outdoor design by choosing which color you want for your sofa. It can even mimic the appearance of natural wicker and still offer better performance.
But make sure to choose a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) resin wicker, as this is much more durable and resistant to cracks compared to the alternative, cheaper PVCs. And the comfort of resin wicker also depends on the quality of the cushions used.
Polywood or composite lumber
These types of outdoor sofas are a blend of synthetic materials and recycled wood fibers. Designed to be fully weather-resistant, it can also mimic the appearance of natural wood. It surely is waterproof, and it won’t swell, crack, or rot. It’s also UV-resistant; it will not fade its color even under long sun exposures. Plus, it is eco-friendly since it is made from recycled materials.
On the other hand, polywood can be more expensive than traditional wood because it's more durable with minimal maintenance requirements. And though it can closely resemble the natural wood, it may lack the authentic texture.
Steel
For some high-end outdoor sofas, steel is usually used for its strength and sturdiness. It is coated with protective finishes to avoid any rust and corrosion that may be brought on by hard weather conditions. Its strength provides good support and durability, making it good for heavily used areas. It also allows for modern designs that may be difficult to achieve with other materials.
But as you may know, steel is heavy; thus, it may be hard for you to move it from one place to another, but it is surely stable. Also, you might want to consider periodic maintenance for the protective coatings to avoid rusting over time.
Conclusion
It is your personal space, so for your outdoor sofa, it is best to choose the right material for you to enjoy your outdoor view, or even just hang outside. Consider its weather-resistant features, durability, maintenance, comfort, and the aesthetics it will add to your outdoor space. By looking at the top five materials for your outdoor sofa, you can compare them according to your priorities and select which one you prefer. Get something that can withstand the natural elements of outdoor living but still give you an amusing experience of aesthetic outdoor living space.
