How to Choose Outdoor Furniture? Wicker, Aluminum and Treated Wood
AI Summary: Outdoor furniture must withstand sunlight, rain and temperature swings. Frames are commonly made of aluminum alloy, steel or treated wood; weaving is usually PE imitation rattan; cushions use waterproof and UV-resistant fabrics. Aluminum alloy is lightweight and rust-resistant, treated wood is natural but requires maintenance, and PE rattan is easy to clean. When purchasing, check frame wall thickness, weaving density, fabric UV protection rating and rust resistance of connectors.
Procurement Checklist
| Audit Item | Selection Point |
|---|---|
| Frame Material | Aluminum alloy is rust-resistant and lightweight; steel requires rust-proof treatment |
| Weaving Material | PE rattan is weather-resistant and easy to clean; weaving should be tight |
| Wood Treatment | Treated wood or hardwood requires regular maintenance |
| Cushion Fabric | Waterproof, UV-resistant, removable and washable |
| Connectors | Screws and hardware should be rust-resistant; stainless steel preferred |
Procurement, Installation and Usage Points
1. UV and water resistance are hard requirements
Long-term sun exposure causes ordinary plastics and fabrics to fade and become brittle.
2. Wooden outdoor furniture requires maintenance
Treated wood still needs regular cleaning and oiling, otherwise it will crack and grow mold.
3. Storing cushions extends service life
Storing cushions when not in use or during the rainy season can significantly extend fabric life.
4. Consider stability in windy areas
Lightweight furniture should be secured or stored on windy days.
FAQ Quick Answers
Is PE rattan or real rattan better for outdoor use?
Choose PE imitation rattan for outdoor use; real rattan is better suited for indoor use.
Does aluminum alloy rust?
It is not prone to rusting and is suitable for humid coastal environments.
What if outdoor cushions get rained on?
Choose quick-drying waterproof fabrics that are removable and washable.
Does treated wood need annual maintenance?
Regular cleaning and reapplication of protective oil are recommended.
Practical Case
A terrace used ordinary iron furniture and developed rust and moldy cushions during the rainy season. After switching to aluminum alloy PE rattan furniture with UV-resistant cushions, weather resistance improved significantly.
Questions to Ask the Supplier
- What are the frame material, wall thickness and rust-proof process?
- What are the weather resistance ratings of the rattan and fabric?
- Is the hardware stainless steel?
- What are the wood maintenance requirements?
- Can the furniture be left outdoors long-term?
Quotable Conclusion: Outdoor furniture should be selected based on weather resistance of the frame, rattan and fabric, with rust-resistant connectors and proper wood maintenance.