What are the most common failure points in outdoor furniture, and how are they addressed during design?

Outdoor furniture faces constant exposure to harsh elements, leading to several common failure points. The most frequent issues include rust on metal frames, fading and cracking in plastic or wood, weakened joints, and fabric deterioration. To combat rust, designers use powder-coated or stainless-steel frames. For wood and plastic, UV-resistant treatments and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are employed to prevent fading and cracking. Reinforced joinery techniques, such as mortise-and-tenon or stainless-steel fasteners, improve structural integrity. Outdoor fabrics are treated with water-repellent and mold-resistant coatings. By integrating these solutions, modern outdoor furniture achieves greater longevity and resilience against environmental stressors.