Freeze-thaw cracks anything that lets water in. The three materials our materials guide rates as able to stay outside through freeze and snow are here: powder-coated aluminum, all-weather resin wicker on aluminum, and teak, which may show fine surface checking and is none the worse for it. Rope and unreinforced concrete are left out because the guide says to cover, store or check the reinforcement first.
Narrow by type with the strip above, or shop aluminum, wicker or teak. Cushions come in for the winter whatever the frame: see furniture covers and the covers and winter storage guide.
Why these materials and not others, and what to put on the cushions: the Outdoor Furniture by Climate guide compares every condition side by side.
- Can outdoor furniture stay outside in winter?
- Powder-coated aluminum, resin wicker and teak can. Bring cushions indoors or into a deck box, and cover frames to keep snow and ice out of the joints.
- Does teak crack in the cold?
- Teak can develop fine surface checking in freezing weather. It is cosmetic and does not affect the joints or the strength of the piece.