Outdoor Bench Materials to Choose From
Choosing the right bench material is essential to make your outdoors stylish and comfortable. Here is a list of common outdoor bench materials:
Resin
If you want to set up a bench for your patio, a resin bench is a good option. These benches are suitable for outdoor seating as they can withstand high and low temperatures.
Resin benches offer comfortable seating. Sometimes, they come with storage as an additional feature. These hidden compartments can help keep your outdoors organized. These benches are pretty easy to maintain. Just run a damp spong over them with a mild soap solution.
Plastic
Plastic outdoor benches are sturdy and affordable. They look stylish when used for a patio seating area. You can easily clean them with a power washer. They are water resistant, making them an ideal choice for poolside seating.
Many plastic benches are designed to look like wood. They provide the look of an outdoor wooden bench, but the material is plastic.
Consider benches made of recycled plastic. Some of these eco-friendly benches come with security brackets. Plastic benches come in a variety of colors and finishes. Choose the one that suits your outdoor needs.
Aluminum
Benches made out of aluminum frames are perfect for outdoor seating. Add some polyester cushions for added comfort. These benches are waterproof and do not corrode.
Aluminum outdoor benches come in several designs. They can complement a modern as well as traditional outdoor space.
A vintage-style aluminum bench will add charm to your garden. You can place them on your porch, patio or pool. They make for elegant outdoor furniture.
Steel
Steel benches can be a great option for outdoors. You can make the seating comfortable by including cushions on it. Steel benches can easily blend with the style of your outdoor space.
Make sure that the steel bench you buy has some form of coating. A powder-coated finish can keep your bench safe from rusting. Such a bench will not require much maintenance.
Assemble an outdoor steel bench at home by yourself. All you need to do is secure the parts with a few screws.
HDPE
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) outdoor benches have become quite popular. They are made from reusable plastic and often have a long warranty period. They come in a variety of colors. Hence, you can easily find a bench that suits your style.
Consider HDPE benches with backrests and armrests. These outdoor benches can be handy if you have kids and pets at home. Clean them using soap and water.
Wood
Wooden benches can make your outdoors more welcoming. They add a classic look to your patio, lawn or backyard. Some outdoor wood bench materials include:
Acacia
Outdoor benches made of acacia have a bunch of uses. Opt for a dining bench for outdoor dining. You can also simply go for a bench with built-in storage to hold your snacks.
Some acacia benches even have a larger storage space. They allow you to store pillows, warm throws or other essentials. They are available in vibrant colors like blue or in neutral tones.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus outdoor benches are highly durable. You can easily assemble them in a few minutes. When buying a bench of this material, make sure that it is certified by organizations like the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council). This will guarantee that the material is good quality and can resist insects. However, they cannot be kept in rooms with heaters. This can lead to cracking of the eucalyptus bench.
Balau
Balau is another long-lasting outdoor wood bench material. It’s weatherproof and is a better version of teakwood. Unlike teak, you can paint the balau bench to your liking.
It fits well with traditional outdoor seating areas. The yellow balau hardwood can resist stains making it a great option if your bench is used frequently.
Shorea
Shorea outdoor benches are great for outdoor seating, as they are moisture—and bug-resistant. Another advantage of this wood type is that it has a high oil content. Due to this feature, shorea benches are rot-resistant. These benches are also eco-friendly and UV-resistant. Opt for shorea benches with storage space, as most varieties feature deep storage below the seat.