When it comes to patio furniture, beauty is only half the equation. In Canada, where our weather swings from blazing hot summers to bone-chilling winters (with a few surprise downpours in between), your outdoor furniture needs to do more than just look good. It needs to perform.
Whether you're designing a cozy backyard retreat or a bold modern outdoor space, the right frame material is key. Let’s explore the top-performing patio furniture frame materials that offer both durability and design-forward aesthetics.
1. Aluminum: Lightweight and Rust-Resistant
Aluminum continues to dominate outdoor furniture for good reason. It's strong, lightweight, and naturally rust-resistant, making it a top pick for Canadian patios, especially in coastal or damp climates. Powder-coated finishes offer even more protection and open up a world of colour options. Its clean, contemporary profile fits everything from traditional to ultra-modern décor.
Why we love it: Minimal maintenance, resists corrosion, and is easy to move around.
2. MGP (Marine Grade Polymer): Built for the Harshest Elements
Originally developed for marine environments, MGP is a heavy-duty material that thrives in tough conditions. It won’t absorb moisture, crack in freezing temperatures, or fade in the sun. Even after being buried in snow or soaked by summer storms, it comes out looking fresh.
Why we love it: Incredibly durable, eco-conscious, and colour-stable even after years in the sun.
3. Durarope: Stylish Strength in Every Strand
Durarope is where strength meets sophistication. This woven synthetic rope adds texture and a modern edge to outdoor furniture, while still being seriously tough. UV-resistant and weatherproof, it's often found on contemporary lounge chairs and dining sets, bringing warmth and comfort without compromising on performance.
Why we love it: Adds a tactile, luxurious feel while standing up to the elements.
4. SOL Teak™: The Look of Wood Without the Work
Love the warm, organic look of teak but not the upkeep? SOL Teak™ is a high-performance alternative that mimics real teak in grain and tone without the splinters, fading, or sealing rituals. Made from virgin MGP, it offers the beauty of wood grain without splintering, fading, or the need for regular sealing.
Why we love it: All the natural beauty of wood with none of the maintenance.
5. Resin Wicker: Classic Comfort, Modern Performance
Resin wicker takes the charm of traditional rattan and gives it a modern upgrade. Woven from synthetic materials such as polyethene and recycled ocean plastics. This material is highly resistant to moisture, mildew, and UV rays. It’s a favorite for outdoor sectionals and lounge sets that invite relaxation. Resin wicker furniture often utilizes aluminum for the frames underneath providing strength and stability.
Why we love it: Timeless style, all-weather resilience, and available in many colours and weaves.
Honourable Mention: Sustainable Frame Materials
We Canadians love our great outdoors, and that includes taking care of it. If sustainability is a priority, there are some fantastic eco-friendly frame materials that don’t skimp on style or strength.
♻️ Recycled Plastic Muskoka Chairs
Our iconic Muskoka chairs are part of an outstanding, high-quality HDPE Plastic Patio Furniture Collection made from durable recycled materials. Designed to last for decades and fully recyclable at the end of their life, our Muskoka chairs are colourful, crack-resistant, and maintenance-free. These chairs have a one-of-a-kind design, featuring a unique lock block mechanism that adds extra strength and stability. Prefer a more neutral look? We’ve got that too!
♻️ Recycled Ocean Plastic Wicker (Ebel)
Ebel’s wicker furniture is crafted with Eco Weave, an innovative material made from recycled ocean plastic, that would otherwise end up polluting our waters. The result is elegant, high-performance pieces that look great and help clean up the planet.
Why we love them: Eco-friendly, stylish, and as strong as their conventional counterparts. Saving the planet never looked so good.
Final Thoughts
Your patio furniture should work as hard as you do, especially in Canada where we squeeze every last second out of patio season. With today’s advanced materials, you don’t have to sacrifice style for durability. Whether you're drawn to sleek aluminum, natural-looking SOL Teak™, or eco-smart options, there’s a weather-tough, chic solution that fits your space.
*Although your furniture is durable and built to withstand the elements, we do recommend using furniture covers to protect the frames throughout the off-season. This will not only extend the life of your furniture but will make the spring cleanup much easier!