Aluminium, timber or wicker?

Aluminium, timber or wicker?

Each outdoor furniture material has its own look, feel and care needs. Compare aluminium, timber and wicker before you choose.

· Barbeques Galore

The best material depends on where your furniture will live, the look you like and how much care you want to give it.

Aluminium

Lightweight, rust-resistant and low maintenance. Powder-coated aluminium suits exposed areas and coastal homes, and it is easy to move around.

Timber

Warm and natural, with a look that sits beautifully in the garden. Hardwoods are strong and long lasting but benefit from regular oiling to keep their colour; left untreated they weather to a soft silver grey.

Wicker

Synthetic wicker brings a relaxed, textured look and is woven over a frame, usually aluminium. It is comfortable, light and resists the weather better than natural cane.

Mixed materials

Many settings combine materials, such as an aluminium frame with timber tops or rope details, to balance durability and style.