Garden furniture quality

Wood is particularly suitable for garden furniture because it is durable, robust, and sustainable. Tropical woods like teak or cumaru are weather-resistant and require little maintenance, while plastic and rattan are cheaper but more environmentally harmful, and metal, while durable, is often less comfortable.

Garden furniture made of plastic and polyrattan is inexpensive, easy to maintain, and weather-resistant, but can heat up considerably in the sun, become brittle, or fade. They are hardly sustainable, as they are predominantly made of fossil petroleum, can release microplastics, and are difficult to recycle.

Wooden garden furniture is robust, durable, and blends harmoniously into its natural surroundings. It has a sophisticated appearance, complements a variety of garden designs, and can be used on balconies and conservatories alike. However, it will change over time under weathering, which is what creates its natural patina.

Metal garden furniture is particularly durable and stable. Iron furniture is heavy and robust but requires protection from moisture, while aluminum is lightweight, weather-resistant, and easy to handle. Stainless steel is even more durable, albeit more expensive, and combines well with wood to create elegant and long-lasting furniture.

The best wood for garden furniture is teak. It's extremely durable, dimensionally stable, resistant to weather, insects, and pests, and requires comparatively little maintenance. Furthermore, the high content of natural oils gives the wood a smooth feel and provides lasting protection for outdoor use.

The most durable garden furniture is made from high-quality hardwoods such as teak or acacia, as well as durable metals such as stainless steel or aluminum. Teak furniture can last over 25 years with proper care and resists weathering, fungi, and insects, while high-quality metal furniture is particularly dimensionally stable and low-maintenance. While plastic furniture often lasts a long time, it can become brittle and fade.

Garden furniture should be ergonomic and space-saving. The seat height of chairs should ideally be between 40–50 cm, while for tables, the height should be about 30 cm higher, i.e., 70–80 cm. High-back chairs or backrests with lumbar support are suitable for additional comfort, while lower backrests make stacking and storage easier.