The Best Outdoor Furniture Materials for Style and Durability
23 July 2025 –
The Best Outdoor Furniture Materials for Style and Durability
Contents
From teak and wicker to Sunbrella fabric and powder-coated aluminum, here’s how to choose weather-resistant materials for every space.
Investing in outdoor furniture that stands the test of time begins with one essential factor: the materials. When we launched McGee & Co. and stepped into the world of product design, we quickly learned that creating a beautiful and functional piece involves much more than meets the eye—from initial research to countless design iterations and the final finishing touches. But no matter how thoughtfully designed a piece may be, its quality and longevity always come back to the materials.
Whether you’re curating a patio, porch, or poolside retreat, choosing durable, weather-resistant outdoor furniture materials is key to creating a space that will last season after season. In this guide, we’re sharing the materials we rely on most—like teak wood, all-weather wicker, powder-coated aluminum, and performance outdoor fabrics—and why each one is worth the investment. Plus, we’ll walk you through the essential details to look for in the fine print as you build your own forever outdoor oasis.
Shop our full McGee & Co. Outdoor Collection here.
01
Sunbrella
If you’ve been shopping for outdoor furniture, you’ve likely come across Sunbrella fabric—and for good reason. Known as one of the best performance fabrics for outdoor cushions, Sunbrella is designed to withstand the elements while still offering everyday comfort. This weather-resistant, UV-resistant, and stain-resistant material is ideal for everything from outdoor sofas to dining chair cushions.
At McGee & Co., we use Sunbrella across many of our outdoor collections because it checks every box: it’s durable, easy to clean, and maintains its color even after long days in the sun. Plus, despite its high-performance qualities, Sunbrella still feels soft to the touch—making it perfect for both form and function in luxury outdoor lounge furniture.
02
Teak
When it comes to choosing the best wood for outdoor furniture, teak consistently rises to the top. Naturally resistant to UV rays, moisture, and pests, teak wood is one of the most durable and weather-resistant materials available for outdoor use. Its dense grain and high oil content allow it to withstand the elements with minimal upkeep, making it a favorite for both function and style.
Over time, teak develops a beautiful silvery-gray patina, adding to its character and appeal—especially when used in patio dining sets, outdoor lounge chairs, or garden benches. With the right care, teak outdoor furniture not only lasts for years but also gets better with age, making it a smart investment for any outdoor space.
03
Poly Wicker
If you love the casual elegance of woven furniture, poly wicker offers the perfect blend of style and strength. Designed to mimic the natural look of traditional wicker, polyethylene wicker (or all-weather wicker) is engineered for outdoor performance. It brings a relaxed, coastal charm to your patio or backyard, but with far greater durability.
Made with UV-resistant, stain-resistant, and water-resistant materials, poly wicker stands up beautifully to the elements—making it an ideal choice for outdoor lounge chairs, sectionals, and accent pieces. Its low-maintenance design and all-weather construction ensure you get the look you love without compromising on longevity.
04
Fiber Cement
For a clean, modern aesthetic with exceptional performance, fiber cement is one of our favorite materials for outdoor furniture and décor. Known for its sleek, sculptural look, fiber cement offers the perfect balance of rustic charm and contemporary design—making it ideal for everything from outdoor coffee tables to planters and side tables.
Beyond its visual appeal, fiber cement outdoor furniture is incredibly durable. It’s resistant to moisture, heat, and UV exposure, and it’s easy to clean—making it a low-maintenance option for high-traffic outdoor spaces. Its weight and texture bring a grounded, architectural presence to patios, porches, and garden nooks alike.
05
Polyester
For a clean, modern aesthetic with exceptional performance, fiber cement is one of our favorite materials for outdoor furniture and décor. Known for its sleek, sculptural look, fiber cement offers the perfect balance of rustic charm and contemporary design—making it ideal for everything from outdoor coffee tables to planters and side tables.
Beyond its visual appeal, fiber cement outdoor furniture is incredibly durable. It’s resistant to moisture, heat, and UV exposure, and it’s easy to clean—making it a low-maintenance option for high-traffic outdoor spaces. Its weight and texture bring a grounded, architectural presence to patios, porches, and garden nooks alike.
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