Exploring Materials for Outdoor Products: Benefits and Drawbacks

May 26, 2025

Creating outdoor products in New Zealand requires careful consideration of the materials used, as they must withstand various environmental conditions while maintaining functionality and aesthetics. 

Let's delve into the benefits and drawbacks of some common materials: 304 stainless steel, marine grade brushed stainless steel, mild steel, corten steel, aluminium, aluminium composite material (ACM), acrylic, bronze, tempered glass and treated wood. 

1. 304 Stainless Steel

Benefits:

• Corrosion Resistance: 304 stainless steel offers good resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor use in non-marine environments
• Durability: It is strong and durable, capable of withstanding physical impacts and wear 
• Aesthetic Appeal: It has a clean, shiny appearance that can enhance the look of outdoor products 

Drawbacks:

• Cost: It is more expensive than mild steel.

2. 316 Marine Grade Brushed Stainless Steel

Benefits:

• Superior Corrosion Resistance: Contains molybdenum, which significantly enhances its resistance to saltwater and chlorides 
• Durability: Offers excellent strength and durability, ideal for harsh marine conditions 
• Low Maintenance: Requires less maintenance due to its high resistance to corrosion 

Drawbacks:

• Cost: More expensive than 304 stainless steel due to the added molybdenum

3. Mild Steel

Benefits:

• Cost-Effective: Cheaper than stainless steel and aluminium 
• Strength: Offers good strength and can be easily welded and formed 

Drawbacks:

• Corrosion: Susceptible to rust and corrosion, requiring protective coatings for outdoor use 
• Maintenance: Needs regular maintenance to prevent rust and prolong its lifespan 

4. Aluminium

Benefits:

• Lightweight: Much lighter than steel, making it easier to handle and install.
• Corrosion Resistance: Naturally resistant to corrosion, especially when anodized.
• Versatility: Can be easily shaped and fabricated into various designs.

Drawbacks:

• Strength: Not as strong as steel, which might limit its use in heavy-duty applications.
• Cost: Can be more expensive than mild steel.

5. Aluminium Composite Material (ACM)

Benefits:

• Lightweight: Combines the lightness of aluminium with the rigidity of composite materials.
• Price: Relatively cheap. 
• Aesthetic Flexibility: Available in various finishes and colours, enhancing design options.

Drawbacks:

• Plastic core: Plastic core is not recyclable or bio degradable, the product and disposal phases can release toxic chemicals into the environment. 
• Energy Consumption: The production of ACM involves significant energy consumption, particularly in the extraction and processing of aluminium. This high energy use contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation.
• Waste Generation: The manufacturing process generates waste, including the highly caustic red mud from aluminium production.If not properly managed, this waste can cause extensive environmental damage.

6. Acrylic

Benefits:

• Transparency: Offers excellent clarity and can be used for applications requiring visibility.
• Weather Resistance: Resistant to UV light and weathering, maintaining its appearance over time.
• Lightweight: Easier to handle and install compared to glass.

Drawbacks:

• Scratch Sensitivity: More prone to scratching than glass.
• Strength: Not as strong as metals.

7. Corten Steel

Benefits:

• Weather Resistance: Develops a stable rust-like appearance after exposure to weather, which acts as a protective layer against further corrosion.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The unique, rustic appearance is highly valued in architectural and landscape design.
• Durability: Strong and durable, suitable for structural applications.

Drawbacks:

• Initial Rusting: The initial rusting process can stain nearby surfaces.
• Cost: More expensive than mild steel.
• Maintenance: Requires careful consideration of placement to avoid staining and ensure even weathering.

8. Bronze

Benefits:

• Durability: Extremely durable and resistant to weathering, making it ideal for long-term outdoor installations 
• Aesthetic Appeal: Develops a rich patina over time, adding character and depth to the artwork 

Drawbacks:

• Cost: Can be quite expensive due to the cost of the material and the casting process 
• Weight: Heavy, which may require sturdy mounting solutions 

9. Tempered Glass

Benefits:

• Transparency: Offers a unique, modern look with the ability to reflect and refract light 
• Weather Resistance: Resistant to UV light and weathering, maintaining its clarity over time 

Drawbacks:

• Fragility: Although stronger than regular glass, it can still break under extreme conditions 
• Cost: Can be expensive, especially for larger pieces 

10. Treated Wood

Benefits:

• Natural Aesthetic: Provides a warm, organic look that blends well with natural surroundings 
• Versatility: Can be carved, painted, or stained to achieve various artistic effects 

Drawbacks:

• Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect damage 
• Weathering: Can warp or crack over time if not properly treated 

Conclusion

Choosing the right material for outdoor products involves balancing benefits and drawbacks based on the specific requirements of the application. Whether prioritizing corrosion resistance, strength, cost, or aesthetic appeal, each material offers unique advantages and challenges. Understanding these can help in making informed decisions to ensure the longevity and performance of outdoor products.

Lisa uses 304 stainless steel for her coated (black, white, gold) works, marine grade (316) brushed stainless steel, corten steel and often aluminium for larger works (when a lighter material is required).  

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