In the UK, plastic outdoor furniture is a popular choice thanks to its affordability, durability, and low maintenance. With a wide range of styles and materials available, there’s something to suit every preference, need, and budget.
However, that low cost often comes with trade-offs. One of the biggest drawbacks is its tendency to fade over time. Without treatment, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can break down the plastic’s chemical bonds, leading to discolouration, brittleness, and what’s known in the trade as "chalking".
Add in the UK’s frequent rain, fluctuating temperatures, winds, and other environmental factors, and that weathering process can accelerate even faster.
What are the best types of plastic for UK gardens and patios?
Unfortunately, not all plastics are created equal when it comes to weather resistance and quality.
Some plastics will last significantly longer in our climate than others and several types of plastic materials are commonly used across the garden furniture industry, each offering distinct characteristics:
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High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Furniture
HDPE is known for its durability and weather resistance. It is UV-resistant, preventing fading from sun exposure, and is often made from recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly choice. HDPE furniture is low maintenance and available in various colours and wood-like textures. -
Polyethylene (PE) Rattan Patio Furniture
PE rattan, also known as resin wicker or all-weather wicker, is a synthetic material designed to mimic traditional rattans. It's woven from polyethylene fibres, offering flexibility and strength. PE rattan is UV-resistant, and suitable for the UK's varying weather conditions. -
Polypropylene (PP) Patio Furniture
Polypropylene is lightweight yet strong, with good resistance to heat and chemicals. It's relatively inexpensive and available in many colours, making it a versatile option for outdoor furniture. -
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Outdoor Furniture
PVC, or vinyl, is highly durable and weather-resistant, withstanding UV rays, saltwater, and chlorine. Its low maintenance and affordability make it a popular material for many of the low-cost modern fad pieces. However, environmental concerns have been raised regarding its production process and potential toxicity. -
Recycled Plastic Garden Furniture
Furniture made from recycled plastics is gaining popularity for its sustainability. These pieces are durable, weather-resistant, and require minimal maintenance. They often replicate the appearance of wood, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials. -
Wood-Plastic Composites (WPC) Garden Furniture
WPCs combine wood fibres with thermoplastics, resulting in materials that are resistant to rot, decay, and pests. They can be moulded into various shapes and are often considered sustainable, especially when made using recycled components.
When selecting plastic outdoor furniture, consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, environmental impact, and aesthetic preferences to ensure the best fit for your outdoor space.
In our experience, we've found that HDPE outdoor furniture is a good option for UK gardens. It is highly resistant to UV damage, moisture, and cracking. Often used for the more premium outdoor furniture sets, it seems to stand up best to the British climate.
Polypropylene, on the other hand, is more affordable but less durable than HDPE. It is resistant to water but it can fade over time with even moderate UV exposure so it is better suited to shaded or semi-covered outdoor areas.
We would avoid furniture made from Acrylic/Polycarbonate (PC) or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). They are common at the cheaper end of the market and, while both have good impact resistance, they can yellow or fade over time and become brittle if exposed to excessive UV.
Is plastic outdoor furniture maintenance-free?
Protecting your outdoor furniture—regardless of the material—is essential for extending its lifespan and maintaining its appearance.
Plastic furniture is often marketed as maintenance-free or fully weather-resistant, which is true to an extent. However, prolonged sun exposure, even with high-end HDPE plastics, can lead to fading and brittleness. Meanwhile, rain and fluctuating temperatures accelerate wear and tear.
In the UK, leaving plastic patio furniture outside means it will inevitably get dirty over time due to environmental factors.
Airborne dirt and dust settle on surfaces, especially in urban areas or near busy roads. The wind carries soil particles that leave furniture looking dull and grimy. Combine that with the UK’s damp climate, and you have the perfect conditions for green algae, mould, and mildew—particularly in shaded spots where furniture stays wet longer after rain.
Birds frequently perch on outdoor furniture, leaving droppings that can stain and even etch plastic surfaces if not cleaned promptly. In spring and summer, pollen from trees and flowers can coat furniture, making it feel sticky.
If your furniture is near trees, sap drips and bird droppings can be particularly stubborn to remove, often staining lighter-coloured plastics. Even rain can leave mineral deposits and watermarks, especially in hardwater areas. If water pools on the surface, it can cause streaks and stains over time.
With all these things thrown at it by Mother Nature, we have a few simple steps you can take to keep your plastic furniture looking fresh and lasting for years to come.
How do you prevent plastic outdoor furniture from fading?
Over time, if not protected, dirt can build up and dull the surface, so some basic steps to protect it are worth taking:
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Apply UV-Protector
Apply a UV-resistant spray or plastic protectant to help block harmful sun rays and prevent fading. Look for products designed for plastic outdoor furniture, and reapply them every few weeks or so, especially in summer. -
Keep It Clean
Dirt and grime can weaken plastic over time, so wash furniture regularly with mild soap and water. Use a soft sponge or cloth to avoid scratching the surface. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely to prevent water spots. -
Cover or Store
When not in use waterproof, UV-resistant covers to shield furniture from both sun and rain. If possible, store furniture indoors or in a shed/garage during winter to reduce exposure to harsh weather. -
Position Strategically
Place furniture in a shaded area or under a pergola/parasol to minimise direct sunlight exposure. If shade isn’t available, rotate furniture occasionally to even out sun exposure. -
Apply Wax or Sealant
Some plastic furniture benefits from a thin layer of car wax or a silicone-based sealant, which adds an extra safe-to-sit-on (when dry) barrier against UV rays and moisture. -
Use Cushions or Throws
Adding outdoor cushions or throws not only improves comfort but also reduces direct sun exposure on the plastic surface. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your plastic outdoor furniture looking fresh and lasting much longer!
Our final thoughts on plastic garden furniture…
If you’re investing in outdoor plastic furniture, HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) is the best choice for durability, weather resistance, and fade protection. Unlike cheaper plastics, HDPE is designed to withstand prolonged exposure to the elements, making it a reliable option for UK gardens.
However, no material is entirely immune to UV damage. Over time, even high-quality plastic can fade, become brittle, or develop surface chalking. To extend its lifespan and maintain its appearance, regular maintenance and protective measures are required.
While HDPE is a practical and budget-friendly option, our cast aluminium furniture offers a longer-lasting, more premium alternative. Unlike plastic, cast aluminium won’t warp, crack, or become brittle. It withstands extreme weather conditions— from heavy rain to intense sun—without significant deterioration.
Additionally, cast aluminium naturally resists rust, making it ideal for the damp UK climate. We enhance this durability with a powder-coated, low-maintenance finish, requiring nothing more than a quick wipe with soapy water to keep it looking pristine. Unlike plastic, it doesn’t need sealants or protective sprays.
Our cast aluminium range combines elegant, intricate designs with a timeless aesthetic. While plastic furniture is lightweight—offering both benefits and drawbacks—cast aluminium strikes the perfect balance: easy to move yet sturdy and stable, ensuring it stays in place.
Both materials have advantages, and the right choice depends on your budget, style preferences, and maintenance expectations. However, if you’re looking for a long-term investment, our cast aluminium collection offers a durable, stylish, and practical alternative to plastic.
If you own our outdoor furniture, we would love to see a few photos for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload It Here.
