Choosing the right materials for outdoor use in cold weather climates is key to durability, safety and longevity. Below we rate frost resistance, durability with rain and moisture, snow, UV exposure, moisture and mold for the most popular materials: quartz, granite, marble, ceramic, teak, oak, mahogany and laminate.
1. Quartz
- Frost Resistance: Not frost resistant as it’s a composite material. Engineered quartz can crack in extreme freezing temperatures.
- Durability with Rain and Moisture: Quartz surfaces are non-porous so water absorption and rain damage is not a concern.
- Effect of Snow: Prolonged snow exposure can cause surface discoloration or damage in poorly sealed quartz installations.
- UV Resistance: Quartz is sensitive to UV rays which can cause discoloration and fading over time. You should use quartz in outdoor areas that are undercover only, otherwise the colour can fade or damage.
- Moisture and Mold Impact: Non-porous so mold and mildew growth is not a concern.
2. Granite
- Frost Resistance: Naturally frost resistant.
- Durability with Rain and Moisture: Highly durable and water damage resistant when sealed.
- Effect of Snow: Snow and freezing temperatures don’t affect granite if sealed and maintained.
- UV Resistance: Highly UV resistant, remains unchanged in direct sunlight. According to Paramount Stone Specialists who specialise in stone, granite is one of the most practical stones for outside countertops and furniture.
- Moisture and Mold Impact: Sealed prevents water absorption, reduces mold and mildew risk.
3. Marble
- Frost Resistance: Less frost resistant than granite and can crack in freeze thaw cycles.
- Durability with Rain and Moisture: Marble is porous and can absorb water, staining or erosion if not sealed.
- Effect of Snow: Snow can cause surface erosion or cracking over time, especially if it seeps into pores.
- UV Resistance: UV exposure over time can cause discoloration and weathering.
- Moisture and Mold Impact: Not sealed, marble is prone to mold and mildew growth.
4. Ceramic
- Frost Resistance: Some frost resistant ceramics are designed for outdoor use, however not all ceramics are for freezing conditions.
- Durability with Rain and Moisture: High quality ceramics resist water damage.
- Effect of Snow: Frost resistant ceramics perform well, non-resistant types can deteriorate under snow.
- UV Resistance: Ceramic materials are UV stable and don’t fade. Ceramic is ideal to use in outside kitchens, tables and other furniture.
- Moisture and Mold Impact: Non-porous ceramic surfaces don’t harbour mold and mildew.
5. Teak
- Frost Resistance: Teak is naturally frost resistant.
- Durability with Rain and Moisture: Teak’s natural oils make it water resistant, warps and cracks don’t happen.
- Effect of Snow: Snow has little to no impact on teak, but prolonged exposure can cause surface graying.
- UV Resistance: Teak is UV resistant but can develop a silvery patina over time.
- Moisture and Mold Impact: Teak’s natural oils don’t mold and mildew, but dirt and grime can accumulate if not maintained.
6. Oak
- Frost Resistance: Moderately frost resistant but can warp or crack in extreme cold.
- Durability with Rain and Moisture: Absorbs water if not treated, can swell or rot.
- Effect of Snow: Prolonged snow exposure accelerates decay in untreated oak.
- UV Resistance: UV exposure can cause discoloration and weaken the wood over time.
- Moisture and Mold Impact: Not treated, oak is prone to mold, mildew and fungal growth.
7. Mahogany
- Frost Resistance: Mahogany is frost resistant due to its density and durability.
- Durability with Rain and Moisture: Better than many woods when sealed.
- Effect of Snow: Snow has little effect on finished mahogany, but prolonged exposure can degrade the finish.
- UV Resistance: Mahogany weathers UV rays well, develops a natural patina over time.
- Moisture and Mold Impact: Sealed, mahogany doesn’t mold and mildew.
8. Laminate
- Frost Resistance: Not frost resistant, can crack or delaminate in freezing temperatures.
- Durability with Rain and Moisture: Not water resistant, warps or swells when exposed to moisture.
- Effect of Snow: Snow can damage laminate surfaces, especially if moisture seeps into the layers.
- UV Resistance: Laminate is UV sensitive, can fade and warp.
- Moisture and Mold Impact: Once moisture gets in, mold and mildew can grow in the laminate layers.
Conclusion
When choosing materials for outdoor use in cold weather, prioritize frost resistance, durability and maintenance. Granite, teak and frost resistant ceramics are the best for cold temperatures, moisture and UV. Marble, oak and laminate need more maintenance and are not suitable for extreme weather without treatment or protection.
