Antique garden tables and chairs come in a variety of materials. Each of these materials offers its unique characteristics. Choosing the right material for your outdoor space involves balancing the aesthetic and vibe of your garden with the functionality and practicality of the furniture.
Two popular materials are wrought iron and teak. Both materials have a timeless beauty and character that they bring to any garden. To help make your decision, we’ve listed some of the pros and cons of both materials:
Wrought Iron
Wrought Iron is known for its intricate designs and elegant curves. Often found in Victorian or Art Nouveau-style furniture, wrought iron tables and chairs give your garden an aura of sophistication to your outdoor space.
Pros:
Durability: Wrought Iron is exceptionally sturdy and capable of withstanding years of use without losing its structural integrity.
Aesthetic Appeal: Its intricate designs add a vintage elegance that complements various garden styles.
Stability:The heavy weight of the wrought iron ensures the furniture remains stable, even in windy conditions.
Cons:
Prone to Rust: Wrought Iron requires regular maintenance to prevent rust, especially in humid or rainy climates
Weight: While its heft adds stability, it can be difficult to move or rearrange.
These materials are best suited for gardens with a vintage or romantic theme and with areas with minimal exposure to heavy rainfall or humidity.
Teak:
Teak is a hardwood known for its natural oils, which make it resistant to weather and decay. They are often used in Edwardian or early 20th-century furniture, teak garden tables and chairs exude warmth and natural beauty, blending seamlessly into outdoor spaces.
Pros:
Weather Resistance: Teak’s natural oils protect it from water, insects, and rot, making it ideal for outdoor use.
Low Maintenance: While it develops a weathered silver-grey finish over time, many owners consider this ageing process part of its charm.
Lightweight: Teak furniture is easier to move and rearrange compared to wrought iron.
Cons:
Cost: Teak tends to be more expensive due to its durability and scarcity.
Silver-Grey Finish Preference: Not everyone appreciates the finish that teak does develop over time due to personal preference. It can be maintained with regular oiling. However, this does add to the maintenance requirements of the teak.
Other materials to consider
While these two materials are the most popular, there are others to consider.
Cast Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, featuring similar designs to wrought iron and easier maintenance.
Rattan orWicker is ideal for covered spaces and gives a more relaxed vibe.
Stone or Marble is perfect for tabletops and adds a luxurious touch, but it requires sturdy bases
Choosing the right material
When choosing between wrought iron and teak, consider your garden’s climate, style, and practical needs. Teak’s weather resistance makes it ideal for wetter climates and rustic designs, while wrought iron suits drier conditions and classic styles.
Wrought iron offers stability but requires rust prevention, whereas teak is lighter and needs occasional oiling to retain its golden hue.
Final note
Whether you prefer the elegance of wrought iron or the warmth of teak, antique garden furniture can transform your space. Choose what suits your style and needs to create a timeless, beautiful garden.
Find more information about your garden furniture and how to look after it here
