Modern Outdoor Furniture: Wicker vs. Resin Furniture

Modern outdoor furniture is desirable for anyone looking to entertain or just enjoy the outdoors. A variety of furniture materials are available, with wicker and resin being among the most common. Both have their own share of benefits and drawbacks. Deciding between wicker and resin outdoor furniture is ultimately a matter of personal taste.

Wicker vs. Resin: Construction

Most resin furniture like the Miami Resin Loveseat White by Compamia is made out of polymer, a high density version of polyurethane plastic. This material is water resistant and UV protected. Another common material is EnviroWood. This wood substitute is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and containers. Both of these materials are very sturdy and are made to withstand a variety of harsh environmental conditions.

Wicker furniture is woven from materials like willow, reed or rattan like the Rattan Deep Seating Arm Chair by All Things Cedar. It is made to be very sturdy, but is naturally resistant to the elements. It needs to be treated with clear lacquer before being used outside.

Wicker vs. Resin: History

Wicker furniture has a more extensive history than resin furniture. Wicker was first used as a material for furniture by the ancient Egyptians. The first wicker furniture was made of anything from reed to swamp grasses. Wicker furniture maintained its popularity until the Middle Ages when it experienced a slight decline. Its popularity was renewed by Victorian societies and it has remained popular until the present day. On the other hand, resin furniture did not become common until the technology to synthesize polymers was created.

Wicker vs. Resin: Pros and Cons

Resin furniture, even sets like the Classic Adirondack 5-Piece Conversation Group by PolyWood, require very little maintenance beyond the occasional cleaning with soap and water. Even exposure to salt water will not damage resin furniture. It is not biodegradable and is very heavy, but it can be recycled, but so can wicker.

Wicker furniture will last longer if not exposed to water or excessive sun. It is natural and biodegradable so water can cause wicker to rot or mildew. Sun exposure may dry out the wicker and cause splintering and cracking. It is best to cover wicker furniture when not in use.

Wicker vs. Resin: Aesthetics

Wicker furniture has a tendency to be better suited to blending into its environment. It has a natural rustic feel that works well in an outdoor setting. Resin furniture, however, is now becoming available in a wider variety of colors and textures. It is even available to look like natural wood. Resin furniture is also easy to repair and paint.

Wicker vs. Resin: Cost

As a whole, wicker patio furniture is a little more costly than resin patio furniture. A certain amount of craftsmanship goes into the creation of a wicker chair, lending it more value. With resin furniture shoppers find a large range of prices. Not all resin furniture is durable; the heavier the plastic, the more likely it is to cost more.