Garden Furniture Materials Compared: Rattan vs Metal vs Wood
8th Apr 2026Posted by Alice Ewens on 8th Apr 2026
Choosing the best material for garden furniture can feel like a big decision! In this guide, we’re comparing the three most popular garden furniture materials – rattan, metal and wood – to help you find the perfect match for your outdoor space.
There are so many garden furniture styles, finishes and features out there! Whether you’re dreaming of cosy summer lounging or dining outdoors with friends, picking the right outdoor furniture material makes all the difference to comfort, durability and maintenance. But fear not! We set out all the pros and cons for your to consider to make the right choices.
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Rattan Garden Furniture Material
Rattan garden furniture is a UK favourite, and it’s easy to see why. It’s stylish, lightweight and brings a relaxed, modern feel to any outdoor space. There are two types of rattan – natural, organic plant rattan, and synthetic rattan.
Marbella Beige Rattan 9 Seat Sofa Garden Dining Set with Firepit Table
Synthetic Rattan vs Organic Rattan – What’s the Difference?
PE rattan is weather‑resistant, UV‑stable and designed for year‑round outdoor use. Natural rattan is beautiful but best kept indoors as it can warp or fade in rain and sunlight.
Why Choose Rattan?
For the purposes of this blog, when we talk about rattan for the garden, we’ll refer to PE (polyethylene) synthetic rattan, a super durable, weather‑resistant version designed specifically for outdoor use. It’s:
- Low‑maintenance: PE rattan wipes clean with warm soapy water and doesn’t require yearly treatments.
- Weatherproof: High‑quality PE rattan is UV‑resistant, won’t fade and handles rain well when paired with weatherproof cushions.
- Comfortable: Usually paired with deep cushions for ultimate outdoor lounging.
- Stylish and versatile: Comes in natural tones, greys and blacks to suit any aesthetic.
Things to Consider
- Not all rattan is created equal. Cheap PVC rattan can crack over time.
- Although the weave is weather‑resistant, the frames matter too. Look for powder‑coated steel or aluminium to prevent rust.
Main Takeaway: Rattan is a really versatile option, great for relaxed seating, modular and corner sofas, dining sets and modern outdoor living spaces.
Metal Garden Furniture
Metal is one of the most durable outdoor furniture materials, and is ideal if you want strength, minimal maintenance and a sleek, modern look. The most common types of metal garden furniture are aluminium and steel, each with their own benefits.
Leros Berry Red Metal 6 Seat Garden Dining Set
Why Choose Metal?
- Ultra‑durable: Especially aluminium — it doesn’t rust and is lightweight yet sturdy.
- Weather-resistant: Powder‑coated finishes protect against rain, UV and scratches.
- Modern style: Clean lines and timeless simplicity make metal an easy fit in any garden.
- Low maintenance: A quick wipe‑down keeps it looking fresh.
Things to Consider
- Metal can heat up in direct sun; cushions help with comfort.
- Steel is heavier and can rust if the coating becomes damaged, so aluminium is usually the better long‑term choice.
Main Takeaway: metal is great for dining sets, bistro sets, and anyone wanting the most durable, low‑maintenance option.
Wooden Garden Furniture
Wood brings warmth, texture and a classic natural charm to outdoor spaces. If you love an organic, rustic or Scandi‑inspired aesthetic, wooden garden furniture is a beautiful choice.
Hamburg & Asa Wood 8 Seat Extending Table Garden Dining Set
Why Choose Wood?
- Natural beauty: Adds instant warmth and character to your garden.
- Strong and sturdy: Hardwoods like acacia and teak are long‑lasting and resilient.
- Ages beautifully: Many woods develop lovely silver tones over time.
Things to Consider
- Wood needs yearly maintenance to stay at its best. Treatments, oils or sealants help protect it from the elements. Check out our blog on how to care for & clean wood garden furniture.
- Some woods are more weather‑resistant than others. Acacia is a popular choice for durability, affordability and water resistance.
Main Takeaway: Wood is great fordining sets, benches, and anyone who loves that natural, earthy outdoor look.
So, What is the Best Material for Garden Furniture?
It really depends on your priorities! Metal (especially aluminium) is best for low maintenance & all‑weather durability. Rattan is best for comfort and modern styling. Wood is best for natural charm & long‑lasting strength (with care). If you’re looking specifically for the best waterproof material for garden furniture, aluminium and high‑quality PE rattan come out on top. Both materials handle the UK climate brilliantly with minimal upkeep.
FAQs
What is the best material for outdoor furniture?
Aluminium and high‑quality PE rattan are generally the best all‑rounders – durable, weather‑resistant, low maintenance and stylish. Wood is also excellent if you don’t mind a bit of yearly upkeep.
What is the most waterproof material for garden furniture?
Aluminium is the most waterproof, followed by PE rattan. Wooden furniture is durable but needs sealing or oiling to maintain its water resistance.
Which garden furniture material lasts the longest?
With proper care, aluminium can last decades. High‑quality PE rattan also has excellent longevity. Hardwood like acacia or teak lasts many years with regular treatments.
Is rattan better than metal for garden furniture?
Neither is universally “better” — it depends on your style and needs. Metal is more durable and lower maintenance, while rattan is more comfortable and stylish for lounging.
Does wooden garden furniture need a lot of maintenance?
Not a lot, but it does need some! A yearly oil, stain or sealant keeps it protected from moisture and sunlight.
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