Teak v Rattan: Which to Choose for Your Garden
Teak and rattan are two of the most sought-after materials for garden furniture - and for good reason. Both offer style, strength, and weather resilience, but if you're deciding which one deserves pride of place in your garden, here’s a breakdown of how they compare.
Weather Performance
Teak is renowned for its natural resilience. Rich in protective oils, it resists moisture, rot and harsh weather without the need for varnish or sealants. This means you can confidently leave teak furniture outdoors throughout the seasons - even in winter - and it will age gracefully.
Rattan, on the other hand, comes in two main forms: natural and synthetic. While natural rattan is beautifully textured and visually appealing, it isn’t built for life outdoors in damp or cold climates. Synthetic rattan, however, is engineered to be UV and water-resistant, making it far more suitable for the unpredictable British weather.
Durability and Strength
Teak is one of the strongest hardwoods available and is widely recognised for its longevity. It’s built to last decades with minimal maintenance. You might notice small cracks known as “checking” develop over time - this is a normal reaction to changes in humidity and doesn’t affect structural integrity.
Well-constructed synthetic rattan can also be extremely durable, particularly when woven around a solid frame made from aluminium or hardwood like teak. Covers can be used for added protection, but it’s not essential for day-to-day use in most climates.
Investment Value
High-quality teak and premium synthetic rattan are both top-tier choices, and their prices tend to reflect that. At Corido, we use sustainably sourced grade-A teak and top-grade synthetic rattan, such as Rehau Raucord®, ensuring long-lasting furniture that's worth the investment.
Teak may offer better long-term value due to its extended lifespan, but excellent synthetic rattan pieces also provide many years of use with a slightly more modern appeal.
Visual Appeal
Your choice might ultimately come down to style. Teak furniture offers timeless elegance and a warm, natural tone that can be crafted into both contemporary and classic designs. It’s a versatile material that works beautifully in formal gardens and relaxed patios alike.
Synthetic rattan tends to give a more laid-back, modern feel. It’s lightweight, making it easy to rearrange, and available in a variety of weave patterns and colours - from soft neutrals to rich earth tones - to complement your outdoor décor.
Why Not Mix and Match?
You don’t have to choose just one. Combining teak and rattan can result in a stylish, layered look - the natural richness of teak paired with the contemporary charm of rattan creates a beautiful contrast. At Corido, we offer a range of teak-rattan hybrid sets, or you can create your own mix by selecting individual pieces that work together in your space.
Both materials are easy to care for and complement each other effortlessly, making this a practical and visually striking option.
Final Thoughts
Whether your priority is longevity, ease of care, or a specific design aesthetic, both teak and rattan have something valuable to offer. You might prefer the organic beauty and sturdiness of teak, or lean towards the flexibility and texture of rattan - or perhaps a blend of both.
Whichever way you go, you’re investing in quality materials that will help transform your garden into an inviting, stylish retreat.
For more information please visit our website Corido.co.uk, call our friendly team on 020 8655 6242 or email us at info@corido.co.uk
