Living in a very wet climate means your outdoor furniture is constantly battling moisture. You want a bench you can actually sit on without waiting hours for it to dry. So, which material dries the fastest? The clear winner is powder-coated aluminum.
Aluminum is non-porous, so water simply beads up and rolls off. A quick wipe with a towel, or even a passing breeze, leaves it ready for use. It won't rust, warp, or rot, making it the ultimate low-maintenance choice for damp environments.
Close contenders include high-quality teak and synthetic materials like polywood or vinyl. Teak's natural oils repel water, allowing it to dry relatively quickly, though it may retain some dampness in its grain. Synthetic resins are also excellent, as they are designed to shed water and dry rapidly without absorbing moisture.
Materials to avoid in very wet areas are bare iron or steel (prone to rust), softwoods like pine (absorb water and swell), and fabric cushions unless they are specifically designed for quick-dry outdoor use. For the fastest dry time and easiest care in a rainy climate, powder-coated aluminum is your best bet for a consistently ready-to-use bench.