Outdoor Furniture Materials, Explained.
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At Yardbird, we know choosing outdoor furniture is more than just picking something pretty. You want comfort, style, durability–and hey, if it helps the planet too? Even better.
One of the most common questions we hear is:
“What’s the best material for outdoor furniture?”
We love this question because the answer is: it depends (we know, we know)! Whether you’re chasing sleek modern vibes, laid-back coastal charm, or timeless, natural warmth–we’ve got three heavy hitters in the material game: powder-coated aluminum, HDPE wicker, and Grade A teak.
They each bring something special to the backyard party–let’s break it down so you can find your perfect match.
Aluminum
Practical & Stylish.
Aluminum is a top pick for outdoor furniture—and it’s easy to see why. Lightweight yet strong, it’s simple to move around your patio or tuck away for the winter without any hassle. The powder-coated finish keeps it rust-free and weatherproof, so sun, rain, humidity, or even salty coastal air won’t make it warp or fade. Low-maintenance and easy to clean, aluminum furniture is perfect for anyone who wants outdoor spaces that look great without the extra work.
Practical, stylish, and built to last, aluminum is made for any outdoor space.
Rust-resistant thanks to that smooth powder-coated finish.
Super low maintenance — just wipe and chill.
Great for all weather, especially humid or rainy climates.
Pairs perfectly with clean lines and modern spaces.
Yardbird picks: Check out our Colby, Luna, Lily, Pepin and Eden Collection for an ultra-sleek take on aluminum style.
HDPE Wicker
Classic texture meets conscious design.
Our wicker isn’t just beautiful—it’s built with purpose. We use high-density polyethylene (HDPE) made with ocean-bound plastic, which means plastic that’s collected from coastal areas before it has the chance to reach the ocean. Instead of becoming waste in our waterways, that plastic is given a second life as durable, long-lasting outdoor furniture.
Beyond the sustainability story, HDPE wicker is designed to thrive outdoors. It won’t crack, peel, or fade in the sun, and it stands up to rain, humidity, and temperature changes with ease. Unlike traditional wicker, there are no splinters, making it a great choice for families and pets. It’s also low-maintenance—just hose it off and you’re good to go. With its woven texture and relaxed feel, wicker delivers classic comfort, all-weather performance, and an eco-friendly impact you can feel good about.
All-weather durability — won’t crack, peel, or fade.
Kid- and pet-friendly — no splinters, ever.
Low-maintenance luxury — just hose it off and you’re golden.
Eco-friendly bonus — every set helps clean up the planet.
Yardbird picks: Our Langdon, Waverly and Ludlow collections are long-time customer faves, wrapped in sustainable style.
Grade-A Teak
Warm, natural, and built to last decades.
When you want timeless style paired with everyday durability, teak is the gold standard. Winnie is crafted from responsibly sourced Grade A teak, prized for its strength, beauty, and ability to stand up to the elements. Naturally rich in oils, teak is highly resistant to moisture, pests, and rot—making it an ideal choice for outdoor living.
Over time, and when left untreated outdoors, teak gracefully transitions from its warm honey-gold hue to a soft, silvery gray patina. This natural weathering is purely cosmetic and part of the wood’s organic character. The structure and integrity of the teak remain strong and stable season after season.
If you love the weathered gray look, simply let nature take its course. Prefer to maintain teak’s original golden color? A small amount of annual maintenance—such as applying a teak sealer or oil—will help preserve its warm, fresh appearance.
Naturally weather-resistant — thanks to its high oil content.
Gorgeous aging — silvers beautifully over time (or oil it to keep the golden tone).
Built like a tank — heavy and solid enough for any climate.
Sustainably harvested — because we don’t mess around when it comes to the planet.
Yardbird picks: Our Winnie Collection is teak perfection — clean lines, rich grain, and lasting beauty.
So, Which Material Is Right for You?
Let’s simplify:
Completed with Sunbrella® Fabrics
Because outdoor life gets messy—and that’s okay.
No matter which frame you choose, we finish it with Sunbrella cushions for one big reason: outdoor living should be worry-free.
Sunbrella fabrics are fade-resistant, water-resistant, and tough enough to handle spills, sunscreen, surprise rainstorms, and that one friend who always spills their drink. Most messes clean up easily with soap and water—no drama required.
Style matters too, and Sunbrella delivers. With a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns, it proves that performance fabric doesn’t have to look “outdoor.” It’s soft, comfortable, and polished enough to feel just as at home inside as it does on your patio.
Our Take
We use all three — for good reason. Whether you’re looking for modern lines, classic charm, or earthy warmth, you’ll find your match in one of our thoughtfully designed collections.
Every Yardbird piece is built to last, made with sustainable materials, and backed by a commitment to quality and the environment.
Still not sure what’s right for your space? We offer free design consultations — no pressure, no stuffy sales pitches, just real people who love helping you create your dream backyard.
Ready to meet your perfect match? Browse our collections here.
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