Materials
What a material can do.
Weather resistance, care, feel, durability and patina compared side by side. Choose a material, or switch on “Compare” and tap a second one.
In detail
Ten materials, honestly explained.
Teak
Tropical hardwood with natural oils that is very durable outdoors and weathers to a silvery grey.
Strengths
- very high natural durability
- ages gracefully to silver grey
- can be sanded down and refreshed
Limits
- origin and grading hard to verify
- golden tone only with regular care
Care
- Clean twice a year with water, pH-neutral soap and a soft brush, working along the grain.
- Do not use a pressure washer, as it roughens the surface.
- To keep the golden tone, treat it regularly with the manufacturer's protective products; otherwise let it weather to grey.
Rope
Wrapped or braided cord made of synthetic fibres that gives outdoor furniture a soft, textile feel.
Strengths
- warm, textile look outdoors
- pleasant against the skin
- light and easy to clean
Limits
- dries more slowly than smooth surfaces
- can lose tension over the years
Care
- Clean with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush.
- Let it dry out thoroughly after rain.
- Cover it in winter and protect it from the weight of snow.
Bouclé
Fabric made from looped yarn with a nubbly, soft surface that gives upholstered furniture depth and warmth.
Strengths
- very cosy, soft feel
- disguises light signs of wear
- lively texture, even in pale shades
Limits
- loops can catch on claws
- suitable for indoor use only
Care
- Vacuum regularly with the upholstery nozzle on medium suction.
- Dab stains rather than rubbing them, so the loops do not roughen.
- Never cut off pulled loops; carefully work them back in instead.
Travertine
Limestone with characteristic pores that brings a warm, Mediterranean calm to floors, tables and walls.
Strengths
- warm, natural character
- works indoors and outdoors
- very long-lasting with the right care
Limits
- sensitive to acids
- frost resistance depends on the variety
Care
- Clean with a pH-neutral stone cleaner and avoid acidic products.
- Seal it regularly, especially outdoors.
- Put glasses on coasters and wipe away acids such as lemon immediately.
Aluminium
Light, rustproof metal which, when powder-coated, forms the low-maintenance basis of many outdoor frames.
Strengths
- does not rust
- light and easy to move
- very low maintenance
Limits
- feels cooler than wood or fabric
- heats up in full sun
Care
- Wipe with water and mild soap; do not use abrasive cleaners.
- Touch up small chips in the finish with the manufacturer's touch-up pen.
- Keep the drainage holes in hollow sections clear.
Ceramic
Densely fired ceramic as a table top: resistant to scratches, heat, UV and frost, but vulnerable to impact at the edges.
Strengths
- absorbs hardly any water, so it does not stain
- resistant to frost and UV
- hot pans usually leave no marks
Limits
- edges can chip if knocked
- pattern often only printed on
Care
- Wipe with a microfibre cloth and a mild cleaner.
- Remove wine, coffee and oil promptly to avoid residue.
- Avoid hard knocks to edges and corners.
Linen
Natural fibre made from flax with a cool, matt feel and a lively, crumpled texture.
Strengths
- cool, natural feel
- grows softer over time
- timeless and easy to combine
Limits
- creases visibly
- more prone to staining than synthetics
Care
- Check the care label, as pure linen can shrink in the wash.
- Fit covers while they are still damp and the creases will settle.
- Protect it from intense midday sun.
Marble
Elegant natural stone made of calcium carbonate with deep veining, cool and smooth, but sensitive to acids and scratches.
Strengths
- unique veining
- cool, elegant surface
- polished surfaces can be restored
Limits
- sensitive to acids, dull etch marks possible
- relatively soft and heavy
Care
- Use only pH-neutral stone care products.
- Wipe away acids such as lemon juice, wine and vinegar immediately.
- Seal it regularly and use coasters.
Acrylic
Solution-dyed outdoor fabric that holds its colour exceptionally well in the sun and has a textile feel.
Strengths
- highly colourfast in the sun
- breathable and quick-drying
- pleasant, textile feel
Limits
- may pill slightly under heavy abrasion
- more expensive than polyester
Care
- Brush off dust and pollen regularly.
- Dab stains with lukewarm water and pH-neutral soap, then rinse thoroughly.
- Leave it to air-dry; do not put it in the tumble dryer.
Oak
Sturdy, tannin-rich hardwood with a distinctive grain, warm when oiled and easy to repair.
Strengths
- very robust and long-lasting
- warm, lively grain
- scratches can be sanded out
Limits
- stains on oiled surfaces
- darkens with exposure to light
Care
- Re-oil oiled surfaces as needed.
- Do not let water rings sit, and use coasters.
- Avoid contact with iron, otherwise the tannins form dark stains.
Personal consultation
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