The ideal outdoor furniture depends heavily on whether your space is a sheltered covered porch or a fully exposed deck. For a covered porch, you have more flexibility. While protected from direct rain and harsh sun, materials should still handle humidity and occasional moisture. All-weather wicker (resin) is a top choice, offering classic style and good durability. Powder-coated aluminum is lightweight, rust-proof, and comes in many styles. Wood furniture like teak or cedar performs excellently here, aging gracefully with less direct weathering. Fabrics should be water-resistant or quick-drying; standard outdoor cushions are often sufficient.
For a fully exposed deck, furniture must battle sun, rain, wind, and temperature swings. Marine-grade polymer or resin wicker is highly recommended for its supreme UV and moisture resistance. Powder-coated aluminum remains a stellar, low-maintenance option. Marine-grade stainless steel with a powder coat offers strength. For wood, teak is the premier choice for its natural oils, though it requires maintenance. Avoid untreated metals and most natural woods. Fabrics must be solution-dyed acrylic (like Sunbrella) for maximum fade and mildew resistance. Always opt for quick-drain cushions and consider furniture covers for extreme weather, even with durable pieces.
In short, prioritize style and comfort for covered porches with semi-hardy materials. For exposed decks, invest in the most weather-resistant, low-maintenance materials you can, as durability is paramount.