Whether you are sipping morning coffee amidst the gentle sounds of nature or hosting a sunset gathering with friends, having durable, weatherproof seating is crucial. Choosing suitable armchairs can make all the difference in creating a space that is not only beautiful but also resilient against the elements. In this blog, we explore various options for weatherproof armchairs that promise comfort, style, and longevity – ensuring your outdoor retreat remains your favourite spot in any season.

6 Best Outdoor Armchairs for the Patio or Garden

1. Teakwood

This is often regarded as the premier choice for outdoor furniture, especially when crafting weatherproof armchairs – primarily due to its exceptional durability and natural resistance to the elements. Teak contains high levels of natural oils and rubber, preserved even after cutting and shaping the wood into furniture. These oils are inherent barriers against water, preventing the wood from warping, cracking, or becoming brittle over time.

Moreover, teak is highly resistant to rot, fungal decay, and pest infestations, which are common problems in less durable woods. This makes it an ideal material for climates that experience frequent rain, humidity, or extreme weather fluctuations. Another significant advantage of teakwood is its low maintenance requirements.

Unlike other woods that might need regular treatments with oils or sealants, teak maintains its condition and appearance with minimal care. Over time, it naturally ages and develops a beautiful silvery-grey patina that you could find appealing; though it can also be treated to preserve its original golden-brown colour.

2. Wicker

Traditionally, wicker refers to weaving materials together, and synthetic varieties such as resin wicker are often used for outdoor furniture. This modern twist on classic wicker is manufactured from high-density polyethene (HDPE) or PVC, for exceptional durability against the elements.

One of the primary advantages of synthetic wicker is its ability to withstand moisture, intense sunlight, and even salt spray – making it ideal for patios and gardens in any climate. Unlike its traditional counterpart made from natural fibres, which can rot or warp when exposed to the elements, synthetic wicker maintains its integrity and appearance year-round without requiring extensive maintenance. It resists fading and cracking, ensuring your chairs remain attractive and functional for years.

3. Aluminium

This material is widely acclaimed as optimal for weatherproof outdoor seating, due to its unique properties and benefits. Lightweight yet strong, aluminium is ideal for patio or garden furniture because it combines easy handling with robust durability.

It is inherently rust-resistant – a key feature for outdoor furniture exposed to elements like rain and humidity. Unlike iron and steel, aluminium does not rust when it comes into contact with the oxygen and moisture in the air – ensuring that your chairs maintain their structural integrity and aesthetic appearance without the need for frequent repainting or treatment.

Another significant advantage of aluminium is its versatility in design. It can be cast or extruded into a wide range of intricate and sleek styles – allowing for modern, minimalist designs or more traditional patterns. This flexibility makes it easy to match these armchairs with various outdoor décor themes.

The surface of aluminium furniture can be finished with a variety of coatings. Powder coating is among the most popular, due to its ability to add colour and additional protection against scratches and UV damage.

4. Recycled Plastic

These chairs are typically made from high-density polyethene (HDPE), a durable plastic often sourced from recycled materials like milk jugs and detergent bottles. This reduces waste in landfills and decreases the demand for new plastic production, thereby lessening the environmental impact.

The innate properties of recycled plastic make it exceptionally suited to outdoor conditions. It is impervious to moisture, and does not rot, warp, crack, or splinter like some of the natural materials. This water resistance also prevents the growth of fungi and mould, which can deteriorate other types of furniture. Moreover, recycled plastic is resistant to UV rays, ensuring that your chairs maintain their colour and structural integrity even when exposed to sunlight for prolonged periods.

5. Cast Iron

Known for its heavy-duty nature, cast iron offers unparalleled stability and resilience, making it ideal for permanent outdoor installations. Moreover, these armchairs often feature intricate, ornate designs achieved through the casting process, where molten iron is poured into moulds.

This allows for detailed patterns and embellishments, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outdoor space. The substantial weight of cast iron furniture ensures that it remains steady and secure, even in windy conditions, providing a reliable seating option throughout the year.

One of cast iron’s standout features is its resistance to wear and tear. It does not twist, bend, or break easily, holding up against the rigours of daily use and harsh weather conditions. It is particularly suited in areas that experience fluctuating temperatures and high moisture levels, as it can endure without significant degradation over time.

6. Polymer

High-tech polymers used in outdoor furniture are engineered to withstand various environmental conditions. One of the key advantages of polymer furniture is its exceptional resistance to the elements. These chairs are designed to resist UV radiation – preventing the material from fading, cracking, or becoming brittle under the harsh sun.

They are impervious to moisture – which means they will not rot, swell, or develop mould & mildew like a few natural materials might. This makes polymer armchairs an excellent choice for areas prone to unpredictable weather patterns, including heavy rain, snow, or intense sunlight.

Unlike wood or metal, this material does not need to be painted, stained, or treated with rust-proofing agents – saving you precious time and effort in terms of maintenance. When it comes to design and aesthetics, modern polymers offer a range of textures and colours. Advances in manufacturing technology mean that this furniture can mimic the look & feel of more traditional materials like wood or wicker, without the associated maintenance challenges.

Conclusion

As you consider multiple options for weatherproof armchairs, remember that the right choice will enhance the beauty of patio or garden and stand the test of time. Whether you opt for the natural elegance of teak, rustic charm of wicker, sleek durability of aluminium, eco-friendly resilience of recycled plastic, traditional strength of cast iron, or modern versatility of polymer – each material offers unique benefits to suit your outdoor living style.