Outdoor furniture marketing rarely distinguishes between “weather-resistant” (survives a light rain) and “weatherproof” (survives a season left outside uncovered). The material is almost the entire story - cushions and finish matter far less than what’s underneath.
Powder-coated aluminum is the most reliable all-around frame material: it doesn’t rust, is light enough to move for cleaning underneath, and holds paint well for years. Teak and eucalyptus hardwood age to a silver-gray patina without rotting if left unfinished and un-covered, but they do need occasional oiling if you want to keep the original color. Avoid uncoated steel entirely in any climate with real humidity or snow - it will rust from the inside of hollow tubing, often invisibly, before it shows on the surface.
Solution-dyed acrylic fabric (Sunbrella is the common brand name) resists fading and mildew because the color is embedded in the fiber rather than printed on top - it’s worth the price difference over standard polyester outdoor fabric, which fades within one or two seasons of full sun exposure.
Genuine natural rattan should live under cover or indoors in winter; it isn’t weatherproof despite looking similar to synthetic versions. Resin wicker (technically woven HDPE) handles rain and UV exposure fine and is the correct choice for anything staying outside uncovered year-round - check that the weave is over an aluminum, not steel, frame.
Naomi covers outdoor living and garden hardware - furniture, lighting, irrigation parts, and anything else that turns a yard into a room. Sh…
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