Top 10 FAQs About Outdoor Composite Furniture: Everything You Need to Know

Maybe you're a homeowner looking to design that perfectly cozy and sophisticated patio, or a business owner shopping for patio furniture that's both beautiful and rugged. Or maybe you can't decide whether you'd like timeless wood or tough, modern plastic for your next patio sofa. No matter who you are, luxury outdoor composite furniture is the perfect solution for anyone looking for elegant, comfortable, durable, and long-lasting furniture.

Today, I've compiled the top 10 most frequently asked questions by customers, shoppers, and outdoor living enthusiasts about this modern patio furniture material.

What is Outdoor Composite Furniture?

Composite outdoor furniture is made from a blend of wood fibers (or sawdust) and a recycled plastic polymer called HDPE (which stands for high-density polyethylene). Recycled HDPE is often made from specific post-consumer plastics like milk jugs and detergent bottles. All of this gets broken down, mixed with UV-inhibited pigment systems, foaming compounds, and additives – then it's formed into durable furniture pieces. The result is an environmentally-friendly, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood furniture.

Because the material is custom-crafted, you'll see composite wood used to make outdoor sofas, loveseats, club chairs, loungers, dining sets, coffee and end tables, benches, daybeds … pretty much all the major types of patio pieces you could ask for. Check out our composite furniture page to see some great examples.

How Durable is Composite Outdoor Furniture?

Durability is one of outdoor composite furniture's biggest benefits. So, does this eco-friendly material stand up to weather and wear better than your old wooden set? That's a definite yes! Composite furniture has been engineered to withstand all four seasons and a range of climates. Hot sun, snowy winters, crazy humidity, and even salty sea spray? Composite can handle it all:

• The pigment is added during the mixing process, so the color runs all the way through the composite material. That means scratches and dings are less noticeable.
• UV inhibitors and stabilizers protect against fading and environmental damage.
• Most composite furniture can support up to 400lbs, though some handle even more.
• The recycled HDPE plastic material won't rot, splinter, or crack like wood.
• Insects and other buggies are less likely to dig into composite.
• Most high-quality brands use only stainless, galvanized, or marine-quality steel to prevent rusting.

With the proper cleaning and maintenance (more on that below), outdoor composite furniture is an investment that'll last you a decade or more. We have customers who've had theirs for over ten years, and they swear the pieces still look like new!

How Do I Clean and Maintain Composite Furniture?

I don't know many people who enjoy cleaning and maintaining their patio furniture. But I've got some good news, composite furniture doesn't need a ton of work to keep it looking and functioning great. No sealing, easy cleaning – and you'll be glad you invested in composite.

We have a full, in-depth guide on outdoor composite furniture maintenance so we'll just cover the important stuff today.

For regular upkeep, simply wipe down your furniture with a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water using a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse it off with your garden hose and let it air dry. See? Easy peasy!

And here's what to do if you're dealing with tougher stains, mildew, or just need a deeper clean:

1. Mix 1/3 cup of bleach with a gallon of water (or use white vinegar for a natural alternative)
2. Apply the solution to the furniture and let it sit for a few minutes
3. Use a soft bristle brush to scrub any hard-to-reach areas
4. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry

You can also use a power washer on a low setting (under 1,500 psi) for an extra deep clean. Just be careful not to hold the nozzle too close or you might damage the material.

Pro tip: Yes, outdoor composite furniture can handle being left outside 24/7. But to really protect your investment, cover it when you're not using it. And make sure to store cushions indoors during harsh weather (especially during cold seasons). These simple steps can make spring cleaning routine that much easier.

Is Composite Furniture Weather Resistant?

Definitely! Outdoor composite furniture is specifically designed to endure outdoor life and all of its challenges. Sweltering sun? Check. Pouring rain? Handled. How about a blizzard? You can be sure your composite pieces won't crack, rot, or rust. It really is the perfect choice for busy households or vacation properties where you need durability without all the upkeep of wood.

A fair warning, though - even composite furniture isn't completely invincible. Extreme cold can make the material a bit more brittle. If you live in an area that sees regular freezing temperatures (especially with precipitation), just be careful not to drop or impact it in those conditions. You'll also want to protect it from non-stop sun exposure, but more on that in a bit. Overall, composite outdoor furniture will be a wonderful option for resisting all kinds of weather.

Can Composite Furniture Fade in the Sun?

So, you want your furniture to stay looking fresh for as long as possible, but the sun can be harsh. Well, outdoor composite furniture is created with UV-inhibiting pigments that substantially fight the fade (but no material is 100% fade-proof). To help even more, composite wood has a second line of defense – the color runs all the way through the recycled HDPE material, so fading is much less noticeable than it is on painted wood.

You should also know that different composite colors fade at different rates. Darker hues (think black and navy) may show more lightening over time than paler colors like soft gray or white. If you live in a particularly sunny area (we're in San Diego, so we get it), lighter shades may be a better choice.

So to help minimize any fading, there are a few simple steps you can take. Store your cushions and cover your composite when you're not using them. Or, just invest in some high-quality patio umbrellas to block direct sunlight. I mean, that's more healthy for your furniture AND your skin.

Are There Color Options Available for Composite Furniture?

You betcha! One of the best things about outdoor composite furniture is flexibility of color and style. You can find bold, modern options with sleek lines and bold colors. Or there's always a wide range of more classic, real-wood looks … and pretty much everything in between.

Many top composite brands offer a range of hues, including:

• Timeless neutrals like white, gray, and beige
• Natural wood-like tones such as teak and mahogany
• Vibrant pops of color like red, blue, and green
• Trendy shades like black, navy, and sage green

The color options really do seem limitless. And because the pigments run throughout the material, you don't have to worry about scratches or chips revealing a different shade underneath.

How Does Outdoor Composite Furniture Compare to Wood?

Now this question's a tough one. Should you go with composite wood or the natural stuff? Both have their strengths, but composite furniture has some serious convenience advantages over teak, ipe, or acacia.

Let's start with durability – a composite material is simply so much more durable and weather-resistant than nearly any natural wood. No rotting, splintering, or warping from exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures. So if you want furniture you can leave outside more often, composite is the way to go.

Composite furniture is also much easier to clean and maintain. You won't need to annually sand, stain, or seal it like with wood. Just a quick scrub with soapy water is usually all it takes to keep your furniture looking great.

The Camden Club Chair by Berlin Gardens combines bold, contemporary style with a faux-wood finish.

While it's hard to beat the natural beauty of real teak or ipe on a close inspection, composite materials have come a long way in recent years. Top composite brands like Berlin Gardens and Seaside Casual are offering wood-like textures and colors that mimic the look of natural grain. Wood purists may always prefer the real deal, but composite is an excellent choice for those who want the look of wood without all the upkeep headaches.

It's worth noting that outdoor composite furniture is often heavier and more expensive than budget-friendly wood options. But in my experience, the long-term durability and minimal maintenance requirements are well worth the investment.

Outdoor Composite Wood vs. Other Materials

Material	Durability	Maintenance	Cost	Weight	Weather Resistance
Composite	High	Low	$$	Heavy	Excellent
Wood	Varies by type	High	$ - $$$	Moderate	Varies by type
Metal	High	Low - Moderate	$ - $$$	Heavy	Prone to rust
Plastic	Low - Moderate	Low	$	Light	Moderate
Wicker	Moderate	Moderate	$ - $$	Light	Prone to fading and damage

What is the Weight Capacity of Composite Chairs and Tables?

Now, let's talk numbers. Composite outdoor furniture is known for its impressive strength and stability, but just how much weight can it handle?

Most composite chairs are weight tested up to 400lbs, though some can support even more. This makes them a great choice for households with kids or larger adults who need a little extra support.

Tables are a bit trickier since weight capacity depends on size and style. A small side table might hold 50-100lbs, while a large dining table can usually handle 200-300lbs or more. If you're unsure about a specific piece, check the manufacturer's guidelines or reach out to the retailer for more info.

As a general rule, composite furniture is sturdy enough to handle the wear and tear of everyday use. So go ahead, pile on the snacks and drinks during your next backyard bash - your table can take it!

Is Assembly Required for Composite Outdoor Furniture?

I get it - the last thing you want to do after unboxing your shiny new furniture is to spend hours figuring out how to put it together. The good news is that most composite outdoor furniture requires minimal assembly.

Many pieces come partially or fully pre-assembled, so all you have to do is unfold and start lounging. Others might need a few simple steps, like attaching legs or connecting a table top to a base.

If assembly is required, rest assured that it's usually a breeze. Most brands include clear instructions and all necessary hardware. Many even have helpful online videos or customer support lines if you get stuck.

In my experience, assembling composite furniture is much easier than dealing with complicated wood or metal pieces. And trust me, the extra few minutes of setup are well worth it for the years of enjoyment you'll get out of your new outdoor oasis.

What Warranty or Guarantee Comes with Composite Furniture?

Last but not least, let's talk warranties. Investing in high-quality outdoor furniture is a big decision, so it's important to know you're protected in case something goes wrong.

Most reputable composite furniture brands offer robust warranties covering material defects and workmanship. The specifics vary by manufacturer, but here's a general breakdown:

• Structural frames: 10-20 years
• Hardware: 3-5 years
• Wicker weaves: 3-5 years
• Cushions and fabrics: 1-5 years

Some companies even offer limited lifetime warranties on certain components. It's always a good idea to read the fine print and understand what's covered before making a purchase.

In addition to manufacturer warranties, many retailers have their own return or exchange policies for added peace of mind. Don't hesitate to ask about these options when shopping around.

While no warranty can guarantee your furniture will last forever, investing in a reputable brand with solid coverage can help you feel confident in your purchase. And with proper care and maintenance, your composite outdoor furniture should provide years of backyard bliss.

Bonus: What's the Best Place to Shop for High-Quality Outdoor Composite Furniture

Getting the best value for your money while ensuring you get high-quality composite pieces can be tricky. Should you shop online? Is in-store purchasing better? And what do you even need to know to find and buy the best composite furniture. Well, let me answer that last question first - you should read this comprehensive composite outdoor furniture buying guide. It'll really help you understand the ins and outs of composite, so you know what to look for.

As for where to shop – online shopping is great for exploring options, getting reviews, and comparing prices. Head over to our composite furniture page to see just how easy it can be! But being in a store also has some benefits you just can't get online, mostly the fact that you can test out each piece. Feel the texture and sturdiness of the composite, sit on those comfy cushions, and make sure you know exactly what those colors look like in real life.

So if you're in the San Diego area, stop by the store to give each composite outdoor furniture piece a test sit or two. And while you're there, ask our team members any questions you have. They learned about all our composite offerings right there in the store, so they know what they're talking about. You can always give them a call, but we'd always prefer to meet our neighbors face-to-face when we can!

I hope these top 10 composite FAQ's were helpful, and we'd love to answer any other questions you have.