Outdoor furniture is an essential investment for creating comfortable and stylish garden spaces. As a leading UK supplier of garden furniture, we feel it's important to shine light on the longevity of outdoor pieces.
The longevity of these pieces can vary significantly depending on the materials used and the maintenance they receive.
This blog will explores the varying lifespans of different types of outdoor furniture and provide practical tips to help you extend their durability.
The Longevity of Different Outdoor Furniture Materials
Aluminium
Aluminium is one of the most popular materials for outdoor furniture due to its numerous beneficial properties. It is lightweight, making it easy to move around your garden, and it is resistant to rust, which is particularly important in the often damp British climate:
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Characteristics:
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Rust-resistant, preventing deterioration in wet conditions.
- Affordable compared to other materials.
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Lifespan:
- With proper care, aluminium furniture can last over 15 years.
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Maintenance Tips:
- Clean regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface.
- Protect from heavy impacts that can dent or damage the structure.
Key Takeaway: 🌟 Aluminium furniture is a durable, low-maintenance option that can withstand the British weather for over 15 years, provided it is cared for correctly. It's one of the primary metals used to construct our metal garden sofa sets.
Rattan Furniture
Rattan furniture offers a blend of natural aesthetics and modern durability, making it a favourite for many homeowners.
We are a leading UK supplier of a range of rattan furniture items, including rattan chairs, sofas and loungers.
However, it is crucial to distinguish between natural and synthetic rattan when considering longevity.
Types:
Natural Rattan:- Made from natural materials, offering a more authentic look.
- More expensive but less weather-resistant.
- Made from materials like PVC, providing superior durability and weather resistance.
- Natural Rattan: Approximately 5-10 years.
- Synthetic Rattan: Between 10-20 years.
Maintenance Tips:
- Clean rattan with a soft brush and mild soap solution.
- Store indoors during harsh weather, particularly for natural rattan.
- Use furniture covers to protect from UV rays and moisture.
Key Takeaway: 🌟 Synthetic rattan is a more durable and weather-resistant option, potentially lasting up to 20 years with proper maintenance, while natural rattan, though more aesthetically pleasing, requires more care and lasts around 5-10 years.
Wicker Furniture
Wicker refers to the weaving technique used in furniture, which can be made from various materials, impacting its durability. The longevity of wicker furniture depends significantly on the quality of the weave and the materials used.
Factors Affecting Longevity:- Quality of the weave: Poorly woven wicker will loosen and degrade more quickly.
- Materials used: Natural vs. synthetic materials.
- Natural Wicker: Similar to natural rattan, around 5-10 years.
- Synthetic Wicker: Can last up to 20 years with high-quality materials like PVC or nylon.
- Regular cleaning with a damp cloth to prevent dirt build-up.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and moisture.
- Use covers during bad weather to protect the weave.
Key Takeaway: 🌟 High-quality synthetic wicker can offer up to 20 years of durability, while natural wicker needs more attention and generally lasts about 5-10 years.
Wood
Wooden outdoor furniture offers a classic, sturdy option with varied longevity depending on whether hardwood or softwood is used.
Types:-
Hardwood:
- More expensive but highly durable.
- Can withstand harsh weather conditions.
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Softwood:
- Less expensive and less durable.
- Requires more frequent maintenance.
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Lifespan:
- Hardwood: Over 30 years with proper care.
- Softwood: Up to 15 years.
Maintenance Tips:
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Regular sealing and oiling to protect from moisture.
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Clean with soapy water and a soft brush.
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Store or cover during extreme weather to prevent rot.
Key Takeaway: 🌟 Hardwood furniture offers exceptional durability, potentially lasting over 30 years, while softwood provides a more affordable option with a shorter lifespan of up to 15 years.
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron furniture is known for its strength and durability, providing a vintage charm to outdoor spaces. However, it requires proper maintenance to prevent rust and damage.
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Characteristics:
- Extremely strong and durable.
- Adds a vintage, dramatic look to gardens.
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Lifespan:
- Can last over 30 years if maintained properly.
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Maintenance Tips:
- Regularly paint to prevent rust and chipping.
- Clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Use covers to protect from moisture and rust formation.
Key Takeaway: 🌟 Wrought iron furniture can last over 30 years with proper maintenance, offering strength and vintage appeal to your garden.
General Maintenance Tips for All Outdoor Furniture
To maximise the lifespan of your outdoor furniture, it is essential to invest in high-quality pieces and carry out regular maintenance. Different materials require specific care techniques to ensure they remain in good condition.
Invest in High-Quality Materials
Choosing high-quality materials, just like those sold at Trade Warehouse, is the first step to ensuring the longevity of your outdoor furniture.
Quality workmanship and durable materials are key to making your investment last.
- Look for furniture made from weather-resistant materials.
- Check for guarantees and warranties from the manufacturer.
- Prioritise pieces with robust construction and high-quality finishes.
Key Takeaway: 🌟 Investing in high-quality materials and workmanship ensures your outdoor furniture lasts longer and maintains its aesthetic appeal.
Carry Out Regular Maintenance
Regardless of the material, all outdoor furniture requires some level of maintenance. Regular cleaning and protection from the elements can significantly extend the lifespan of your pieces.
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Cleaning:
- Use a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces regularly.
- For deeper cleaning, use soapy water and a soft brush.
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Protection:
- Use covers to protect from UV rays, rain, and snow.
- Store furniture indoors during extreme weather conditions.
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Material-Specific Maintenance:
- Wrought Iron: Repaint every few years to prevent rust.
- Wood: Seal and oil regularly to protect from moisture.
- Rattan: Store indoors or use covers to protect from weather.
Key Takeaway: 🌟 Regular maintenance, including cleaning and protection, is crucial to extending the life of your outdoor furniture and ensuring it remains functional and attractive.
Conclusion
Outdoor furniture can often last over twenty years or even longer, depending on the materials and the care it receives.
High-quality materials such as aluminium, wrought iron, and hardwood offer exceptional durability, while synthetic materials like PE rattan and synthetic wicker provide weather resistance and longevity.
Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and protection from harsh weather, is essential to ensure your outdoor furniture remains in good condition for years to come.
By investing in quality pieces and following the maintenance tips outlined in this blog, you can enjoy the comfort and style of your outdoor furniture for many years, making it a valuable addition to your garden or patio.