Explore the top materials for rainproof patio furniture and how to keep your outdoor space looking great year-round.
Aluminum and resin furniture handle Charlotte’s rain like champs – that’s the short answer. But there’s more to keeping your patio looking good than just picking the right material. We’ve watched countless sets rust away at Lake Wylie homes, and honestly, most people waste money on stuff that can’t handle our summer storms.
After testing pretty much everything out there (and getting soaked in the process), we’ve nailed down what actually works and what’ll end up as expensive yard art by August. Want to save yourself some headaches and cash? Keep reading – we’re about to share what really holds up when those Carolina storms roll in.
Key Takeaways
- Aluminum and resin wicker don’t rust and won’t give you a headache with maintenance
- Teak and other hardwoods look amazing and handle rain well, but you’ll need to show them some love now and then
- Steel and marine-grade plastics won’t budge in a storm, though they’re pretty different in how much work they need
Materials Overview
Aluminum
We’re pretty big fans of aluminum [1] around here. It’s basically weatherproof, and we’ve watched it handle everything from spring showers to those nasty ice storms we sometimes get. Plus, you won’t throw your back out moving it around the patio. The powder-coated stuff’s even better – it’s got this extra layer of protection that keeps it looking nice for years.
Pros:
- Won’t rust even if you forget it in the rain
- Light enough to drag around without breaking a sweat
- Doesn’t need much attention, just a quick wipe down
Cons:
- Kind of feels like sitting on a metal folding chair without cushions
- If you scratch that coating, you’ll need to fix it pretty quick
Maintenance:
Just grab some dish soap and water, give it a good scrub every now and then. If you notice any scratches (and you probably will), hit it with some touch-up spray before rust shows up.
Best Use Cases:
We love this stuff for people who don’t want to drag their furniture inside every time the weather looks iffy. Throw some waterproof cushions on there, and you’re good to go.
Resin Wicker (Synthetic Rattan)
Resin wicker mimics the look of natural rattan but is made from synthetic fibers like high-density polyethylene. These fibers don’t absorb water and resist UV rays, so the colors stay vibrant longer even in harsh weather. The weave is usually over an aluminum frame, combining strength with style.
Pros:
- Water-resistant and UV-stable
- Flexible and comfortable
- Easy to clean, just hose it off or wipe
Cons:
- Can get hot in direct sun
- Some lower-quality wicker may crack over time
Maintenance:
A rinse with water and occasional mild detergent is enough. Covering furniture during heavy storms can extend its life, though it’s fine left out most of the time.
Best Use Cases:
Great for those who want a cozy, stylish look with minimal fuss. Perfect for patios where rain is common but you want furniture that dries quickly and resists mold.
Teak and Other Hardwoods
Look, we’ve seen enough teak furniture [2] around Lake Wylie to know it’s worth the investment. There’s something about those natural oils that just works – water beads right off, and bugs don’t stand a chance. Sure, it’ll turn that silvery gray over time (which we think looks pretty cool), but you can always slap some oil on it if you’re not into the weathered look. Ipe and eucalyptus are decent alternatives, but they’re kind of needy with the sealing stuff.
Pros:
- Laughs at rain and tells insects to get lost
- Built like a tank, probably outlasts your mortgage
- Gets better looking with age, like a good wine
Cons:
- You’ll need to baby it with oil now and then
- Costs an arm and a leg, and it’s heavy as sin
Maintenance:
We usually tell folks to grab a soft brush and some mild soap twice a year. If you’re feeling ambitious, hit it with teak oil in spring and fall. Skip it if you want that weathered look – it’ll still hold up fine.
Best Use Cases:
Perfect for anyone who doesn’t mind a little weekend maintenance and loves that natural wood look. We’ve seen it look amazing next to stone patios.
Steel (Galvanized or Stainless)
We’ve dropped enough steel furniture to know it’s basically indestructible. The galvanized stuff handles rain like a champ, and stainless steel’s even better. It’s heavy – we mean really heavy – but that’s actually great when those summer storms blow through. The powder-coated versions look sharp, just keep an eye out for scratches.
Pros:
- Built like a tank and twice as tough
- Won’t rust if you treat it right
- Sits there like it’s bolted down (because it practically is)
Cons:
- Moving it’s like wrestling a bear
- Let a scratch go too long and you’ll be fighting rust
Maintenance:
We check ours every few months for chips in the coating. Quick wash with soap and water keeps it clean, and touch up any scratches before they turn into rust spots.
Best Use Cases:
Great for spots where you don’t plan on rearranging much. If you’re into that modern industrial look (and don’t mind a workout when you clean), steel’s your best bet.
Plastic (Marine-grade or Recycled)
We’ve got mixed feelings about plastic furniture, but the good stuff – we’re talking marine-grade or recycled materials – actually holds up pretty well in our Carolina weather. It’s not gonna win any beauty contests, but it shrugs off rain like it’s nothing. Plus, you won’t spend your weekends maintaining it.
Pros:
- Water rolls right off like a duck’s back
- Pretty much takes care of itself
- Won’t break the bank, and you can find it anywhere
Cons:
- Some of it feels about as sturdy as a kid’s toy
- Bulky as all get-out, and heavier than you’d think
Maintenance:
Honestly? Just hit it with some soap and water when it looks dirty. Don’t go crazy with bleach or anything – we’ve seen that end badly.
Best Use Cases:
Perfect for splash zones like pool areas or if you’re just tired of babysitting your furniture. We’ve seen it work great at beach houses too.
Comparing Performance
Look, we’ve installed enough patio furniture to know there’s no perfect choice. Aluminum’s great if you’re lazy about maintenance, teak’s gorgeous but needs love, steel’s basically immortal if you take care of it, and plastic… well, it depends on what you buy.
| Material | Durability in Rain | Maintenance Level | Cost Range | Weight |
| Aluminum | High | Low | Moderate | Light |
| Resin Wicker | High | Low | Moderate | Light-Moderate |
| Teak & Hardwoods | High | Moderate | High | Heavy |
| Steel (Galvanized/Stainless) | High | Moderate | Moderate-High | Heavy |
| Marine-grade Plastic | High | Very Low | Low-Moderate | Heavy |
Real-World Examples
We’ve got this client over in Dilworth who’s had the same aluminum set for like six years – still looks brand new. Down by Lake Wylie, there’s this family with resin wicker stuff that’s survived three seasons of teenagers and thunderstorms.
Our favorite’s probably this older couple near Freedom Park – they’ve got this teak set that’s aged to this gorgeous silver color, but they oil it twice a year like clockwork. Steel’s kind of hit or miss – we installed this massive dining set at a lakehouse last year, and it’s solid as a rock, but they’ve had to touch up the paint a couple times. Bottom line? Pick what matches your patience level for maintenance.
Maintenance Tips
Caring for your patio furniture helps it last through many rainy seasons. For metals like aluminum and steel, regular cleaning and touch-ups on coatings prevent rust. Resin wicker just needs a rinse and occasional soap wash.
Wood requires more attention, with oiling or sealing to protect against moisture. Plastic is easiest, just clean it and avoid abrasive cleaners. Removing cushions during heavy storms or using waterproof covers adds extra protection no matter the material.
FAQ
What is the best material for rain-resistant patio furniture?
Aluminum and resin wicker are top choices. They don’t rust, dry quickly, and need very little maintenance. Teak and other hardwoods also handle rain well, but you’ll need to oil them sometimes. Steel and marine-grade plastics are durable too, but they differ in weight and upkeep.
Can teak furniture survive heavy rain?
Yes! Teak has natural oils that repel water and resist insects. It can last for many years even in wet weather. Over time, it turns a silver-gray color. You can keep it shiny with teak oil, but even if you don’t, it will still be strong and usable.
How do I clean resin wicker furniture?
Resin wicker is easy to maintain. You can just hose it off or wipe it with a damp cloth. For a deeper clean, use mild soap and water. It’s water-resistant and dries fast, so it’s perfect for areas that get a lot of rain.
Is steel patio furniture worth it?
Steel is very strong and lasts a long time, especially if it’s galvanized or stainless. It can be heavy, but that weight helps it stay put in storms. Just check for scratches in the coating, clean it occasionally, and touch up any spots to prevent rust.
Do plastic chairs get damaged in rain?
Good-quality plastic, like marine-grade or recycled plastic, handles rain very well. Water doesn’t soak in, and it’s almost maintenance-free. Some cheaper plastic can feel flimsy, so it’s best to choose sturdy designs. Avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning to keep it looking nice.
Should I cover my patio furniture in storms?
Covers are a good idea but not required for all furniture. Aluminum, resin wicker, and marine-grade plastic can usually stay outside safely. Wood and steel benefit from extra protection during heavy storms. Covers help prevent scratches, fading, and water damage, keeping your furniture in great shape longer.
Can you build a paver patio for a fire pit?
Yes, a paver patio is an excellent base for a fire pit because pavers are heat-resistant, durable, and create a stable, level surface. Unlike wood decking, they won’t catch fire or warp. With proper spacing and fire-rated inserts, you can safely enjoy cozy evenings outdoors.
Choosing the Right Patio Furniture for Rain
When deciding, think about how much rain your area gets and how much time you want to spend maintaining your furniture. If you want to set it and forget it, aluminum or resin wicker with waterproof cushions are smart choices.
If you prefer natural materials and don’t mind a little upkeep, teak or hardwoods bring warmth and longevity. Steel works well for solid, permanent setups, while marine-grade plastic suits casual, low-maintenance needs.
Here’s a quick checklist to guide your choice:
- Do you want lightweight furniture to rearrange easily? Go aluminum or resin wicker.
- Are you after natural beauty and don’t mind occasional oiling? Consider teak.
- Need strong, stable furniture for dining? Steel is a solid pick.
- Looking for budget-friendly, waterproof options? Plastic fits the bill.
- Will you use waterproof cushions? They enhance comfort and protect your investment.
Your outdoor space deserves furniture that lasts through rain and shine. We’ve helped many in Charlotte and Lake Wylie build patios with the right materials to enjoy their backyards without fuss.
Ready to transform your backyard into a luxurious outdoor retreat? Contact Lapis Patios today for a free consultation and let our team of experts bring your vision to life with unmatched quality and professionalism!
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminium
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teak_furniture