What garden furniture can be left outside all year round?

Spending time outdoors, soaking in the first sunny hours of the day, enjoying the fresh air… as soon as the buds appear, the first signs of the coming sunny days, we can’t wait to indulge in these simple pleasures. But to take advantage of all this, now is the time furnish your outdoor space ! Garden furniture is one of the key elements that allows you to do this turn your garden or terrace into a real living room, contributing to relaxation and aperitifs with friends. But what furniture to choose so that you don’t have to move it in case of bad weather? What is damaging your garden furniture? How to maintain it? We will tell you all about the different options available in the market.

What factors damage garden furniture?

Garden furniture is often heavily stressed when placed outside. The vagaries of the weather are not always kind to him. If UV rays Sunlight can have a negative impact on appearance by causing the cushions and frame to fade, it can also weaken materials such as plastics and make them more prone to breaking or cracking.

Rain can cause mold formations on mattresses or seat fabrics, penetrate porous materials such as wood and cause damage or even rust on metal parts. from his side, wind can cause garden furniture to fall or move and cause physical damage such as breakage or scratches. In addition, extreme temperatureswhether very hot or very cold, some materials used in the manufacture of garden furniture can expand or contract, affecting their strength and durability. But weather conditions are not the only enemies of our garden furniture. Bird droppings and resin trees it can also cause damage by corroding the surface of certain materials.

What materials to choose for garden furniture that is durable all year round?

It is essential to choose quality outdoor furniture that is weather-resistant to ensure its long-term durability. For this, you need to consider different materials available in the market such as wood, metal, synthetic rattan or even plastic. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability climatic conditions, service life and maintenance.

• Wooden garden furniture is a great classic of outdoor furniture, but not all wooden garden furniture is created equal. Species such as teak, an exotic wood used in shipbuilding, acacia, which is completely resistant to rot, or eucalyptus, which is the most economical, are naturally resistant to weather and termites and will develop a patina over time. They do not rot easily and can withstand extreme temperatures. Advantage: the wood will last for decades without warping! Weak point: requires oil feeding from time to time (once every two years).
• Metal garden furniture is an option that can add a raw and contemporary touch to your outdoor space. L’stainless steel, an alloy of different metals, does not rust. It can also be protected by zinc (galvanized steel) or epoxy coating, making it even more resistant to moisture. It resists shocks, has a weight that makes it very stable on the ground. Advantage: Cheaper than aluminum, it is an affordable option for those who want to create a modern garden area without damaging the bank Weak point: any scratch that is not “treated” is more susceptible to corrosion.
• Garden furniture made of aluminum with powder coating is a bestseller in the field of outdoor furniture. It has a long life and does not need any treatment because it does not rust naturally. It couldn’t be easier to clean, a little soapy water and that’s it. The advantage: it is available in many colors, shades and textures. It can even mimic other materials. Weak point: boxes in the “light” category against the wind.

• Forged garden furniture it has been working for millennia and is the signature of all English gardens. Highly valued for its extreme strength, it is praised for its excellent durability. Advantage: this heavy weight protects against gusts of wind. Weak point: wrought iron retains heat, so you’ll need to tuck it under a parasol or shade tarp or risk a surprise “burn” when you sit down. Another disadvantage is that it is very sensitive to corrosion and requires an anti-corrosion treatment once a year.
• Resin garden furniture or synthetic rattan (or polyrattan) is essential for garden furniture covers. Better known as resin wicker, it is made from synthetic fibers that mimic the look and texture of natural rattan. Mounted on a metal structure, it is weather resistant and easy to maintain. Advantage: It does not fade easily under UV radiation and does not rot when exposed to moisture (including sea spray). Weakness: its high price, good durable and aesthetic resin has a price.
• PVC garden furniture is an ideal compromise if you are on a tight budget. Weatherproof, water resistant and very easy to clean with soapy water and a soft cloth. Advantage: PVC garden furniture is generally cheaper than wooden or metal garden furniture. Weak point: PVC is a non-biodegradable material that can have a negative impact on the environment if disposed of incorrectly.
• Fabric garden furniture. When choosing garden furniture, it is important to consider the materials used for the construction, but also the covers for seats, sofas, cushions and parasols. Two materials are most commonly used. If acrylic and polyester have the same water repellent properties, the former will be more UV resistant than the latter. Another option is fabric. Often used for deckchairs, this synthetic fabric is water, UV and mildew resistant and easy to clean. It is also quite breathable, so it is comfortable to use even in hot weather.

What to do to make your garden furniture last as long as possible?

To prevent premature deterioration of garden furniture, it is important to take preventive measures. Is recommended cover the furniture with protective covers raincoats and if possible store pillows and mattresses in the garden shed when not in use. It is also important to clean the garden furniture regularly to remove dirt and debris that could accumulate and cause damage, and treat the wood with appropriate products. By taking care of your garden furniture, you can extend its life and enjoy your outdoor space for many years.