An outdoor dining setup is one of the most-used areas of a home from spring through fall — and one of the most frequently furnished with pieces that don't last. The difference between outdoor furniture that weathers gracefully and outdoor furniture that looks beaten up after one season is almost entirely material choice.

The outdoor dining pieces on Alloy & Ash are made by woodworkers and fabricators who build for actual outdoor use — not indoor furniture moved to a porch.

Materials that hold up

Teak is the gold standard for outdoor wood: it's naturally oily, resists rot and insects, and weathers to a silver-gray patina if left untreated or holds its warm tone with periodic oil maintenance. White oak and hard maple are less naturally resistant but can be sealed and finished for covered outdoor use. Powder-coated aluminum is lightweight, rust-free, and the most maintenance-free metal option. Wrought iron is heavy and durable but requires a quality powder coat and touch-up of chips to prevent rust.

Covered vs. exposed

Tables under a covered pergola or patio can use a wider range of materials than fully exposed tables. Solid hardwood with a good exterior finish holds up well under a roof; in full sun and rain, aluminum or teak is a more reliable long-term choice. Consider how much of the year the piece will be used and whether it'll be stored in winter.

Sizing

Outdoor dining sizing follows the same rules as indoor: 24 inches per seat, 36 inches of clearance from table edge to any wall, railing, or planter. Round tables are friendlier in smaller outdoor spaces; rectangular tables suit long, narrow decks.

Made to order, 6–10 weeks.