There’s nothing better than enjoying long summer days outside, but if you’ve noticed your outdoor rattan garden furniture fading or even cracking in the sun, you’re not alone. Sunlight is one of the biggest challenges for outdoor furniture, and without proper care, UV rays can cause discolouration, brittleness, and long-term damage.
At Lazy Susan, we have significant experience with rattan furniture — we used to sell a high-quality poly-rattan dining range and learned first-hand how stylish and practical they can be.
We also discovered that even the best synthetic rattan is more vulnerable to the British climate than many homeowners realise. That’s why we decided to focus exclusively on cast aluminium, a material that not only offers timeless style but is also better suited to withstanding the year-round conditions of UK gardens.
However, we completely understand the appeal of rattan — and if it’s rattan you’re after, this article will walk you through why it’s especially prone to sun damage, what fading really means, and, most importantly, how you can keep your furniture looking its best with a few simple UV protection tips.
Why Does Outdoor Rattan Garden Furniture Fade?
Rattan is a beautiful, woven material that brings texture and warmth to any outdoor setting. But just like our skin, fabric, or wood, it can be damaged by prolonged sun exposure.
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UV rays break down fibres
The ultraviolet light in sunshine degrades both natural and synthetic rattan fibres over time, causing them to weaken. -
Colour pigments fade
Continuous sun exposure lightens the colour of the weave, leaving it looking washed out. -
Heat causes expansion and contraction
Daily temperature changes can stress the material, leading to cracking or splitting.
Put simply, fading is a natural reaction to UV damage. It doesn’t mean your furniture is poor quality — it means it needs a little extra care to withstand the elements.
What Does “Fading” Actually Mean?
When we say outdoor furniture is “fading,” we’re describing a loss of original colour or vibrancy caused by sun exposure. For rattan, that usually means a gradual lightening or uneven patches across the weave.
To put it in plain terms, fading is just the outdoor equivalent of fabric colours dulling in the wash. It’s cosmetic, but if left unchecked, it can also signal weakening fibres.
Interestingly, outside of furniture, fading also describes when someone’s energy or enthusiasm gradually decreases. A synonym might be dimming, weakening, declining, or disappearing. In both cases, fading is about a slow loss of strength or brightness.
Why Does Rattan Crack in the Sun?
While fading affects appearance, rattan cracking in the sun affects structure. This usually happens because:
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Heat dries out the fibres, leaving them brittle.
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UV exposure weakens the protective coating.
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Repeated expansion and contraction stress the weave.
Cracks often begin small but can spread quickly, especially if the furniture is exposed to both strong sunlight and heavy use.
Can Real Rattan Furniture Be Left Outside?
Traditional rattan is made from a natural vine that grows in tropical forests. While it’s strong and flexible, it isn’t naturally weatherproof. Leaving real rattan furniture outside all year round exposes it to:
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Sun damage
UV rays cause fading and cracking. -
Rain and moisture
Natural rattan absorbs water, leading to swelling, mould, or rot. -
Cold temperatures
Frost can make fibres brittle and prone to breakage.
That’s why many people opt for synthetic rattan (often called resin rattan or poly rattan) when it comes to outdoor furniture. It offers the same beautiful woven look but is far better equipped to handle the elements. Genuine rattan, on the other hand, is best reserved for indoor spaces such as conservatories or garden rooms.
Which Is Better for Outdoor Furniture: Wicker or Rattan?
This is a common source of confusion. Wicker refers to the weaving technique, while rattan refers to the material. You can have wicker furniture made from rattan, bamboo, or the more common in our sector, synthetic fibres.
For outdoor use, synthetic rattan (often woven in a wicker style) is usually the best choice. It combines the aesthetic of natural rattan with the durability needed to withstand sun and rain.
Natural wicker (using organic fibres) is less weather-resistant and better suited for indoor or covered areas. So if you want that classic woven look for your patio, synthetic rattan wicker furniture is the sweet spot.
What Are the Disadvantages of Rattan Garden Furniture?
Rattan furniture — especially synthetic versions — is popular because it’s lightweight, stylish, and comfortable. But like all outdoor materials, even it has a few drawbacks:
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Vulnerability to UV
Without protection, resin rattans can fade or crack. -
Maintenance required
It needs cleaning and occasional treatment to stay looking fresh and dirt can get trapped in the weave. -
Cheaper versions may not last
Lower-quality resin rattan can unravel or split more quickly so look for HDPE resins as they offer better durability, weather-resistance, and are lower-maintenance.. -
Storage space needed
Synthetic rattan must be brought indoors or covered in bad weather as it can easily blow over damaging the weave.
These disadvantages don’t outweigh the benefits, but they highlight why a little care and UV protection will go a long way.
What Does It Mean if My Rattan Furniture Is Fading?
If you’ve spotted outdoor rattan garden furniture fading, don’t panic. It usually means the fibres are responding to UV light and losing pigment. While this affects appearance, it doesn’t necessarily mean the furniture is structurally weak.
Think of it like wooden decking that changes colour in the sun — still functional, but it needs care to restore its finish. The good news is that fading can often be slowed or reduced with the right protection.
Garden Furniture Sun Damage: Signs to Watch For
Sun damage on outdoor furniture can show up in different ways. With rattan, the most common signs include:
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Colour fading
Lightened, patchy, or dull-looking weave. -
Surface dryness
Fibres feel rough or brittle instead of smooth. -
Hairline cracks
Tiny splits appear in areas with the most sun exposure. -
Warping
Sections of the weave become uneven or loose.
Catching these signs early is key to preventing more serious cracking or breakage.
UV Protection Tips for Rattan Furniture
The best way to deal with garden furniture sun damage is to prevent it. Here are some practical ways to extend the life of your rattan furniture:
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Use protective covers
Invest in fitted, breathable outdoor covers to shield from direct sunlight when not in use. -
Position wisely
Place furniture in shaded spots, under parasols, or near pergolas to reduce UV exposure. -
Apply UV protection sprays
Specially designed sprays add a protective layer against sunlight. -
Clean regularly
Dust and dirt can act like sandpaper, speeding up wear. Wash gently with soapy water. -
Store during extremes
In very hot summers or cold winters, move your set into a garage, shed, or covered area.
Rotate pieces – If one side of your furniture faces the sun all day, rotate it occasionally to even out exposure.
What Is the Most Weatherproof Garden Furniture?
Cast aluminium outdoor furniture is crafted by pouring molten aluminium into moulds, creating strong, seamless designs. Unlike cheaper tubular aluminium alternatives, cast aluminium is solid, long-lasting, and naturally resistant to the elements.
Here’s why it’s considered the most weatherproof option:
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Rust-free
Aluminium does not rust, making it ideal for damp or rainy climates. -
UV resistant
Unlike rattan or wood, it won’t fade, crack, or warp in the sun. -
Low maintenance
A simple wipe with warm, soapy water is usually all it needs. -
Lightweight yet sturdy
Strong enough to withstand wind but easy to move around the garden. -
All-season durability
It won’t swell, splinter, or deteriorate in extreme heat or cold.
Many Lazy Susan cast aluminium pieces also come with a protective powder-coated finish, which enhances resistance to scratches, chips, and colour fading, while giving them a beautiful decorative style.
How Does It Compare to Other Materials?
When choosing outdoor furniture for your garden, patio, or balcony, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of different materials.
Natural rattan and synthetic rattan furniture are popular because of their attractive woven style and versatility, but how do they really perform in the sun compared to other options?
Here’s a closer look at how rattan garden furniture compares with wood, synthetic rattan, steel, iron, and cast aluminium:
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Wood (like teak):
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Teak is loved for its natural beauty and durability.
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Its natural oils make it more resistant to moisture and the elements, but to keep it looking good you’ll need regular treatments.
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Without oiling, teak tends to lose its warm tone and turns silvery grey after a few years outdoors.
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Synthetic rattan:
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Lighter and easier to move than natural rattan, making it perfect for flexible garden spaces.
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Better suited for outdoor use than natural rattan, but still vulnerable to UV damage and cracking in strong sun.
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Covering or storing rattan furniture when not in use will extend its lifespan.
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Steel and iron:
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Strong and traditional, ideal for chairs, a bench, or a table with a classic look.
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Heavy and prone to rust without protective coatings.
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Not as practical for those who like to rearrange their furniture often.
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Cast aluminium:
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Lightweight yet strong enough to withstand year-round weather.
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Doesn’t rust, is easy to clean, and pairs well with a variety of styles.
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A popular option for dining sets, sun loungers, or comfortable seating areas.
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Why Many Homeowners Still Choose Rattan
Despite some limitations, rattan garden furniture remains a firm favourite:
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Its woven look adds timeless style to any garden or outdoor space.
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Modern synthetic rattan is far more resistant to rain and sun than natural rattan, especially when paired with durable frames.
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It’s versatile—whether you want chairs, a table, a bench, or full dining sets, there are plenty of products to suit your needs.
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Many retailers now offer fast delivery, even in Northern Ireland, making it easier than ever to refresh your outdoor furniture.
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With the right care, rattan can last for many years, providing a stylish, comfortable place to relax with family or friends.
If you’re considering new outdoor furniture, think about how much sun exposure your garden gets, how often you like to rearrange your space, and how much maintenance you’re willing to spend time on. Rattan may need a little extra protection, but with proper care, it remains one of the most stylish and versatile choices available.
Our Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Outdoor Rattan Furniture
Outdoor rattan garden furniture fading or cracking in the sun is a common issue, but it’s not inevitable. With the right care, protective measures, and maintenance, you can dramatically extend the lifespan of your set.
Fading is a cosmetic sign of UV exposure. If you’ve noticed your outdoor rattan garden furniture fading or cracking in the sun, you’re not alone — UV exposure and changing weather conditions are tough on woven materials. While rattan (especially synthetic rattan) remains a popular choice, it does need extra care, covers, and maintenance to keep it looking good.
For those of us in the UK climate, where the weather can shift from blazing sunshine to heavy rain in a single day, there’s an alternative worth serious consideration: cast aluminium garden furniture.
Unlike rattan, cast aluminium outdoor furniture is:
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Completely rust-free
Perfect for wet winters. -
UV resistant
It won’t fade, crack, or become brittle in the sun. -
Low maintenance
No need for oils, treatments, or constant cover-ups. -
Durable all year round
It can stay outside in every season without worry.
So, while rattan furniture can be protected and enjoyed with the right care, if you’re looking for furniture that will stand up to the UK’s unpredictable weather with minimal effort, cast aluminium is the better long-term investment. It offers timeless style, exceptional resilience, and the peace of mind that your furniture will look as good in five years as it does today.
Lazy Magazine's Key Takeaways:
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Fading means a loss of colour caused by UV rays.
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Cracking happens when heat and sun weaken fibres.
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Real rattan isn’t designed for year-round outdoor use.
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Synthetic rattan is better suited for sun and rain.
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Use UV protection tips like covers, sprays, and shade to reduce damage.
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Alternatives like aluminium or teak offer maximum weather resistance.
Your garden should be a place to relax, not worry about your furniture. With a little care, your rattan set can stay beautiful, comfortable, and ready for use season after season.
We’d love to see how you create your perfect outdoor dining space with our outdoor furniture range. Share your garden table moments with us on Instagram or Facebook by tagging @LazySusanFurniture, or join our Do Some Good campaign by uploading your photos of beautifully styled tables.
