Aluminum vs rattan vs wooden garden furniture : Which is better?

Garden furniture shopping might seem straightforward until you’re faced with the big three: aluminium, rattan, and wood. Each one brings something unique to the table- literally. Aluminium is known for being light on its feet and easy to keep looking sharp, while rattan scores high for relaxed comfort and that outdoor café feel. Wood adds a touch of heritage and character, making your garden feel homely and welcoming.

Picking the right set depends on how you use your garden, what fits your style, and how much effort you want to spend on maintenance. Wondering which material will suit you best? have a peek at our detailed guide below.

1. Properties of Aluminium Garden Furniture

Aluminium garden furniture is a popular pick for outdoor spaces thanks to its modern look and practical benefits. It’s a go-to for those who want something low maintenance but still stylish and reliable. Here’s a breakdown of the key properties, along with its advantages and downsides.

Key Properties of Aluminium Garden Furniture

• Rust-Resistant: Aluminium doesn’t rust, making it ideal for outdoor use. Even when exposed to moisture or damp conditions, it holds up without flaking or corroding.
• Lightweight: It’s easy to move around, whether you’re repositioning chairs or storing a set away. This is a big plus for anyone who likes rearranging or doesn’t want the hassle of heavy lifting.
• Durable Coating: Most sets are powder-coated, giving them extra protection and a sleek finish. This also stops the colour from fading too quickly and helps prevent scratches.
• Non-reactive Metal: Aluminium doesn’t react with most environmental elements, which means it won’t warp, crack or weaken over time, even with regular use.

Advantages of Aluminium Garden Furniture

• Low Maintenance: A simple wipe-down is usually enough to keep it looking tidy. No need for oiling or treating like with wood.
• Versatile Designs: Available in sleek modern styles and classic finishes, it fits in easily with different garden themes.
• Weather-Resistant: While it doesn’t need covering as urgently as other materials, it still handles the elements well and dries off quickly.
• Value for Money: Though it might seem pricey upfront, the longevity and minimal upkeep make it a smart long-term investment.

Disadvantages of Aluminium Garden Furniture

• Lightweight in Wind: While easy to move, it can also be blown around in stronger winds. Heavier sets or anchoring options might be better in exposed spots.
• Less Natural Look: If you’re after that warm, earthy feel, aluminium might not quite hit the mark unless paired with softer elements like fabric or timber accents.
• Surface Marks: Even with powder coating, it can still pick up scuffs or dents if handled roughly.

2. Properties of Wooden Garden Furniture

Wooden garden furniture brings a warm, natural touch to outdoor spaces. It’s a classic choice that works well in everything from country-style gardens to contemporary patios. But while it’s known for its charm and solid feel, not all wood is made equal, and it does come with a few maintenance needs. Here’s what you should know before investing.

Key Properties of Wooden Garden Furniture

• Natural Aesthetic: Wood blends into garden surroundings effortlessly, adding a rustic or timeless character depending on the style and finish.
• Strong and Sturdy: Solid wood like teak, oak or acacia offers great durability. These hardwoods are dense and can handle regular use without feeling flimsy.
• Ageing with Character: Many types of wood develop a silvery patina over time. For some, this adds character, while others prefer to treat the wood to preserve the original colour.
• Porous Material: Wood absorbs moisture, which can lead to warping or splitting if not properly treated and maintained over time.

Advantages of Wooden Garden Furniture

• Visually Appealing: The natural grain and texture give each piece a unique look. It instantly elevates the feel of any outdoor area.
• Sturdy Build: Good quality wooden furniture is solid and can feel more stable than metal or plastic alternatives, especially for benches and dining sets.
• Customisable: It can be painted, stained or treated to match different themes or protect it against wear.
• Eco-Friendly Options: When sourced from sustainable forests, wooden furniture can be a more environmentally responsible choice.

Disadvantages of Wooden Garden Furniture

• High Maintenance: To keep it looking good and lasting long, regular treatment with oil or sealant is needed. Skipping this can lead to cracks or discolouration.
• Heavier to Move: Hardwood furniture is often quite heavy, making it awkward to shift around or store during colder months.
• Vulnerable to Pests: If not treated properly, some woods can attract insects or develop mildew, especially in damp conditions.
• Pricey for Quality: Cheaper softwoods can wear out quickly, while well-made hardwood furniture often comes with a steeper price tag.

3. Properties of Rattan Garden Furniture

Rattan garden furniture is a popular choice for those after comfort, style and a relaxed outdoor setup. Whether synthetic or natural, rattan suits everything from compact balconies to large patios. Let’s take a closer look at the key properties that make rattan garden furniture a standout for outdoor living:

Key Properties of Rattan Garden Furniture

• Woven Structure: The signature woven design gives it a light, airy appearance while still offering strength and flexibility in the frame.
• Available in Natural and Synthetic: Natural rattan is plant-based and ideal for covered areas, while synthetic rattan (typically made from PE or resin) is more resistant to moisture and better for full outdoor use.
• UV Resistance (Synthetic Only): Good-quality synthetic rattan resists sun damage, helping it retain its colour and shape over time.
• Lightweight but Strong: Despite its bulky look, rattan is usually lightweight, especially when paired with aluminium or steel frames.

Advantages of Rattan Garden Furniture

• Comfortable by Design: The flexible weave gives a bit of natural give, which adds to the comfort, especially when paired with padded cushions.
• Stylish and Versatile: It fits easily with both modern and traditional garden themes, with options in grey, black, or natural tones.
• Low Maintenance (Synthetic): Synthetic rattan just needs the occasional wipe with a damp cloth. It doesn’t need oiling or painting.
• Weather-Resistant (Synthetic): High-quality synthetic rattan is built to handle sun and rain without cracking or fading, making it ideal for outdoor use.

Disadvantages of Rattan Garden Furniture

• Natural Rattan is Delicate: If exposed to rain or direct sunlight regularly, natural rattan can become brittle, mouldy or discoloured.
• Can Sag Over Time: Lower quality synthetic versions may stretch, sag or unravel after a few seasons if the weave isn’t tightly made.
• Bulky to Store: Many rattan sets are large and not easily stackable, so storage can be a pain if space is limited.

4. Cost

Aluminium garden furniture usually falls into the mid-to-high price bracket. While the upfront cost may feel steep, it often includes long-term value thanks to its rust-resistant finish and low maintenance needs. Budget ranges may use hollow frames or lighter coatings, whereas premium versions feature powder-coated finishes, mixed materials, and modular setups that can push the price higher.

Wooden garden furniture varies widely in cost depending on the timber used. Teak and eucalyptus are on the pricier side due to their durability and natural resistance to decay, while softwoods like pine or acacia are cheaper but often need more maintenance or early replacement. Added treatments or painted finishes also bump up the cost, especially with handcrafted or solid joinery pieces.

Rattan garden furniture covers a broad price range. Synthetic rattan, which is better suited for outdoor use, is generally more affordable than natural rattan and comes in everything from budget flat-weave sets to high-end, tightly woven pieces. Costs rise with features like UV protection, deep seating, or premium cushions, while natural rattan tends to be more expensive yet less weather-tolerant.

5. Durability

Aluminium is highly durable, especially when powder-coated. It doesn’t rust, warp or crack, making it a great choice for frequent outdoor use. Well-made aluminium furniture can last years with minimal upkeep, though cheaper sets may dent or scratch more easily if the metal is thin or the coating is poor quality.

Wooden furniture, particularly when made from hardwoods like teak or eucalyptus, offers strong durability with proper care. These woods contain natural oils that protect against decay and insects. However, untreated or softer woods are more prone to rotting, warping or splintering over time, especially if not regularly treated or stored properly.

Synthetic rattan is known for its resilience, especially when tightly woven over aluminium or steel frames. It resists fading and cracking when made with UV-stabilised materials. Natural rattan, however, is much less durable outdoors and should only be used in covered areas, as it can quickly become brittle or mouldy when exposed to damp conditions.

6. Maintenance

Keeping your garden furniture in good shape doesn’t need to be a chore, but each material does come with its own set of care needs. Here’s a breakdown of maintenance tips based on the type of garden furniture:

Aluminium Garden Furniture

• Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt or pollen
• Occasional gentle soap wash keeps it looking clean
• Check bolts and joints annually for tightness

Wooden Garden Furniture:

• Requires annual oiling or sealing to prevent drying or cracking
• Clean with soft brush and wood-safe cleaner to avoid surface damage
• Painted or stained finishes may need touch-ups every few years

Rattan Garden Furniture:

• Synthetic: Use a soft brush or cloth with soapy water to clean the weave
• Natural: Needs dry storage and careful cleaning to avoid weakening the fibres
• Cushions should be stored indoors to prevent mildew and fading

7. Environmental Impact

When considering garden furniture, its environmental impact is an essential factor that goes beyond aesthetics and comfort. Choosing materials wisely can reduce harm to the planet and promote sustainability, making your outdoor space more eco-conscious without sacrificing style or function. Here are some of the key differences between aluminum, wood and rattan garden furniture when it comes to environmental impact:

• Wood is a natural, biodegradable material that can be sustainably sourced, particularly with FSC-certified options. Its production generally involves a lower carbon footprint compared to synthetic alternatives. However, poor sourcing practices risk deforestation and habitat loss, making certification and ethical supply chains crucial.
• Rattan is a fast-growing, renewable resource, which makes it an eco-friendly choice when harvested naturally. On the other hand, synthetic rattan (polyrattan), commonly made from plastics such as polyethylene or PVC, depends on fossil fuels and adds to pollution and waste. While synthetic rattan offers durability, its environmental cost is higher, especially if not properly recycled.
• Aluminium garden furniture is prized for its durability and lightweight nature, but its environmental impact is complex. The extraction and refining of aluminium demand significant energy and generate considerable emissions. However, aluminium’s standout advantage lies in its recyclability, most aluminium garden furniture contains recycled material, and the metal can be recycled repeatedly without losing quality.

Now that you’ve explored the ins and outs of aluminum, wood, and rattan garden furniture, you’re better equipped to decide what suits your space. Consider your climate, maintenance commitment, and personal style to pick pieces that will enhance your garden for years to come.