Your Guide to Outdoor Furniture Materials
At Jardin, we believe outdoor furniture should be just as considered as what’s inside your home. It should reflect your style, suit your space, and most importantly - last for years to come.
One of the key ingredients in creating furniture that endures? The materials. With New Zealand’s intense UV exposure, coastal conditions, and unpredictable weather, quality materials and protective finishes make all the difference.
Here’s what you need to know when selecting outdoor furniture that can handle real life - and still look stunning.
Steel: Durable and Timeless
Steel is the foundation of many of Fermob’s most iconic designs - and for good reason. It’s incredibly strong, stable, and perfect for outdoor use in most environments.
Fermob uses high-quality steel that’s treated with an initial protective layer, followed by a multi-layer powder-coating process, which includes UV protection. This treatment forms a protective barrier that helps resist fading, corrosion, and wear over time — even under New Zealand’s notoriously harsh sun.
Best for:
- Outdoor spaces away from salt spray or salt laden winds
- Homes looking for long-term durability
- Heavy-use areas like patios, decks and garden settings
Popular steel collections:
From courtyards to terraces, Fermob’s steel collections bring character and charm to the garden.
Aluminium: Lightweight and Coastal-Ready
If you’re near the coast, aluminium is your go-to. Unlike steel, aluminium won’t rust - making it ideal for areas exposed to salt air and sea spray.
Fermob’s aluminium collections still feature the same robust powder-coated finish with UV protection as the steel ranges, so you won’t miss out on colour intensity or resilience.
It’s also lighter than steel, which is handy if you’re moving pieces frequently or storing them away over winter.
Best for:
- Coastal homes and beachfront properties
- Rooftop terraces or balconies
- Those who prefer lightweight, movable furniture
Popular aluminium collections:
Strong yet light, Fermob’s aluminium designs are made for open skies, coastal breezes and easy living.
Teak: Natural Warmth with Outdoor Strength
Teak is one of the few timbers naturally suited to life outdoors. Fermob now offers several pieces crafted from responsibly sourced teak - a dense hardwood that’s naturally rich in oils, making it resistant to moisture, insects and decay.
Teak adds a warm, tactile quality to your outdoor setting and pairs beautifully with Fermob’s vibrant metal finishes.
Over time, teak will gracefully weather to a silver-grey patina if left untreated - a look many of our customers love. Or, if you prefer to retain its original honey tone, you can oil it occasionally.
Best for:
- Mixed-material outdoor settings
- Those who want a more natural, grounded look
- Outdoor dining or relaxed lounge zones
Popular teak collections:
Rich in texture and warmth, teak brings a natural elegance to outdoor dining and lounging spaces.
Care Tips for Long Lasting Beauty
While Fermob’s finishes are made to last, a little care goes a long way. Here are some quick tips:
- Clean with mild soapy water - avoid harsh chemicals
- Use touch-up kits for any chips or scratches (available for all Fermob colours)
- Oil teak as needed to maintain its natural finish
Looking for more detailed advice? Explore our furniture care tips.
Curious about outdoor fabrics and woven finishes?
We’ve covered that in part two, Fabrics & Weaves, focused on soft materials - including Fermob’s Outdoor Technical Fabric, Sunbrella cushions, and more.
Need help choosing what’s right for your space?
Our team can walk you through what’s best based on where you live, how you use your space, and what materials will work long-term. We’ll even show you how different colours and finishes look together - either in-store or via our free design service.
Wherever you’re based, we’d love to help you bring your outdoor space to life.
