When furnishing a rooftop terrace or top-floor balcony with direct, relentless sun exposure, the choice of material is critical for both comfort and durability. Conventional materials like dark metals or cheap plastics can become dangerously hot, making them unusable and unsafe. The key is to select materials with high heat reflectance, low thermal conductivity, and light colors.
An excellent choice is aluminum, especially with a powder-coated finish in a light hue. Its natural properties allow heat to dissipate quickly, and the coating provides an additional protective, cooler-to-the-touch layer. Synthetic wicker or rattan, made from resin fibers, is another top contender. It does not absorb heat like traditional wicker and is designed to withstand UV radiation without fading or becoming overly hot.
For seating surfaces, consider using dedicated outdoor cushions made with Sunbrella or similar solution-dyed acrylic fabrics. These are designed to reflect UV rays and remain significantly cooler than other textiles. Natural teak wood is a classic option for a reason; its high oil content and dense grain make it resistant to heat absorption and weathering, though it requires maintenance to retain its color.
Finally, modern high-density polyethylene (HDPE) lumber is an innovative material. Made from recycled plastics, it is impervious to moisture, UV-stable, and, most importantly, has a low heat retention capacity, especially in light colors. Avoid dark-colored metals, solid plastics without UV inhibitors, and thin synthetic fabrics, as these will absorb and retain the most heat, creating an uncomfortable and potentially hazardous environment.