Introduction

Alfresco dining, which involves dining outdoors in a natural setting, has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among those who appreciate fine food and want to enjoy it in a scenic environment. Wooden furniture is a smart and direct choice to maintain the natural ambience.

If you are considering adding wooden furniture to your outdoor catering business, you may be surprised to find that they are classified into two types: plastic wood and real wood. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. So, what are they exactly? Which one is better for your outdoor catering spaces?

This article will tell you everything you need to know before deciding.

Common Points between Real Wood & Plastic Wood Furniture

1. They have sturdy construction with a strong frame.
2. They possess wood grain surfaces, especially on the table tops and chair bases.
3. They have an incredibly long product life, approximately 10-15 years.
4. They are sustainable, recyclable, and biodegradable.

Real Wood’s Unique Strengths

• Real wood furniture is considered more upscale than its plastic counterpart. Its surfaces look more intricate and natural than plastic wood ones. No two pieces of real wood furniture share the same wood ring patterns. But it might happen between plastic wood products.

• Real wood furniture suits numerous finish options, providing endless design possibilities and aesthetic value. In contrast, plastic wood is rather limited in this respect.

• Once scratched, real wood can easily be refinished, while it is difficult for plastic wood.

• Real wood furniture without a strong finish can effortlessly absorb stains and spills. However, plastic wood can’t do so.

• Natural real wood frames, table tops and seat bases are warmer than plastic wood in cold weather.

Plastic Wood’s Unique Strengths

• Unlike real heavy hardwood (softwood is rarely used for furniture making), plastic wood furniture is lightweight, therefore, very convenient to move around.

• Plastic wood is hard to dent, while real wood is likelier to dent and chip.

• Plastic wood is unaffected by humidity or dry climates, while real wood is more susceptible.

• You spend little time caring for plastic wood furniture, even if you leave it outdoors for a long time. However, you must refinish or oil your outdoor real wood tables and chairs since they will fade, rot or chip over time.

• Most of the plastic wood chairs consist of plastic wood seats and armrests with an aluminium frame suitable for stacking. In contrast, stacking real wood chairs is not easy due to their heaviness and structures.

What to consider before purchasing commercial outdoor furniture?

When purchasing commercial outdoor furniture, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you’re making the best investment for your business. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Waterproof

Since outdoor furniture is exposed to the elements, it’s essential to be waterproof to avoid damage from rain and humidity. It is especially important if your business is in a rainy or coastal area.

2.All-weather

In addition to being waterproof, outdoor furniture should withstand all weather conditions, from intense sunlight to heavy winds.

3.Easy cleaning

Commercial outdoor furniture is often subjected to heavy use, which can get dirty quickly. Look for furniture that is easy to clean and maintain, with materials that can withstand regular scrubbing and sanitizing.

4.Durable

Outdoor furniture should be able to withstand regular use, as well as potential damage from weather, animals, or other factors. Look for durable and long-lasting materials, such as metal or wood.

5. Cost

Outdoor furniture can be a significant investment, so it’s important to consider your budget before purchasing. However, remember that cheaper options may not be as durable or long-lasting and may cost more in the long run. But spending money on more cost-effective materials intended for the outdoors is feasible.

6.Safety & Health

Your outdoor furniture should be safe for your customers and employees to use. Look for sturdy furniture with no sharp edges or loose parts that could cause injury. Also, consider the materials used in the furniture, as some may contain chemicals that could harm human health.

7.Variety & Customization

Outdoor furniture comes in varied styles and designs, so consider what will work best for your space and brand. Also, look for companies offering customization options to showcase your style.

8.Eco-logical

As environmental concerns continue to grow, many businesses are looking for eco-friendly options when it comes to outdoor furniture. Look for companies that use sustainable materials in manufacturing processes, and consider the end-of-life options for the furniture when it’s time to replace it.

Which is better?

Plastic wood furniture is. It has become increasingly common in commercial venues, including outdoor cafes, bars, restaurants, bistros, diners, etc.

In contrast, real wood outdoor furniture is more suitable for residential settings. It is beautiful and natural but requires more maintenance than plastic wood. It must be sealed, stained, or painted regularly to protect it from the elements, and it may crack, fade, or rot over time. Due to its high maintenance requirements, real wood outdoor furniture is more suitable for residential purposes where the owner has more time to care for it.

However, commercial settings require low-maintenance, durable furniture that can withstand heavy use. Plastic wood furniture is a safer investment. It saves your staff’s cleaning and maintenance time, spares you from long-run maintenance bills, and makes rearranging your outdoor business space more convenient.

Final Thoughts

Real wood furniture is the traditional choice and is often considered more upscale than its plastic counterparts. The texture and warmth of natural wood are difficult to replicate with plastic wood, making real wood furniture more aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, real wood furniture is more durable and long-lasting; with proper care, it can last for decades. However, real wood furniture can be more expensive and require more maintenance, including regular staining or sealing to protect it from weather damage.

On the other hand, plastic wood furniture is often cheaper and easier to maintain. It is typically made from recycled plastic materials and can be designed to mimic the look and texture of real wood without the need for staining or sealing. Plastic wood furniture is also more resistant to weather damage, making it a good choice for businesses in harsh weather conditions. However, plastic wood furniture may not have the same level of durability as real wood furniture and may not last as long.

In summary, choosing between real and plastic wood furniture for outdoor catering businesses depends on several factors, including a budget, desired aesthetic, and intended use. Real wood furniture is more traditional and aesthetically pleasing but can be expensive and require more maintenance. Plastic wood furniture is cheaper and easier to maintain but may not have the same aesthetic appeal as real wood furniture. Ultimately, the overall performance of plastic wood furniture is higher than its real wood counterpart in the commercial aspect.

Want to discover more about the benefits of commercial outdoor plastic wood furniture? Talk to Coets specialists for more!