The 10 Best Patio Furniture Sets
Upgrading your outdoor space starts with furniture that survives the weather and stays comfortable season after season. Here are the top-rated patio sets worth buying.
A well-chosen patio furniture set transforms any outdoor space, whether it’s a compact balcony, a sprawling backyard deck, or a poolside retreat, into a place you actually want to spend time in.
The market has expanded considerably, with options spanning all-weather wicker conversation sets, aluminum sectionals, fire pit groupings, and dining configurations at a wide range of price points.
Sorting through hundreds of listings to find sets that genuinely hold up to sun, rain, and daily use is time-consuming, and the spec sheets alone rarely tell the whole story.
To help you cut through the noise, ProductFind researched and analyzed the top-performing patio furniture sets available right now, drawing on published specifications, expert review consensus across multiple sources, and verified buyer feedback from confirmed purchasers.
We assessed each set against a consistent set of criteria covering materials durability, comfort, cushion quality, assembly complexity, and value, then scored each one on our 0 to 10 PF Score scale.
The result is a shortlist of outdoor furniture sets worth your money, covering everything from outdoor sofas and conversation groupings to dining sets and fire pit configurations. Our top-ranked picks are listed below.
| Award | Product | PF Score About PF ScoreThe PF Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
HILLGA 7-Piece Patio Set with 6" Cushions & Swivel Chairs
|
8.2/10 | Buy | |
| Editor's Pick |
LazySunsets 7-Piece Rattan Patio Sectional Set
|
7.9/10 | Buy | |
| Best Value |
Aoxun 6-Piece Patio Set with Fire Pit Table
|
7.8/10 | Buy | |
| Top Rated |
HILLGA 3-Pc Swivel Glider Set with 6-Inch Cushions
|
7.6/10 | Buy | |
MIXPATIO 5-Piece Wicker Patio Set with 10-Inch Cushions
|
7.5/10 | Buy | ||
Oasbira 5-Piece Aluminum Patio Set with Coffee Table
|
7.4/10 | Buy | ||
SUNCROWN 5-Piece Patio Dining Set with 37in Square Table
|
7.1/10 | Buy | ||
Gardenbee 3-Piece Swivel Rocker Patio Set with Side Table
|
6.8/10 | Buy | ||
Sunshine Valley 7-Seat Patio Set with Swivel Chairs
|
6.5/10 | Buy | ||
Oasbira 5-Pc Aluminum Patio Sectional Set
|
9.7/10 | Buy |
HILLGA 7-Piece Patio Set with 6" Cushions & Swivel Chairs
A comprehensive outdoor furniture set designed for comfort and durability, featuring high-density 6-inch cushions, ergonomic high-back design, and weather-resistant construction. Best suited for homeowners seeking senior-friendly seating with substantial cushioning for poolside and deck lounging.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction with multi-layer protective coating resists rust, salt, and harsh weather year-round
- Thick 6-inch cushions with high-density foam provide substantial support and resist sagging better than thinner alternatives
- Smooth 360-degree swivel and gentle gliding motion makes seating accessible for seniors and families
- High-back ergonomic design with extended lumbar support reduces strain during prolonged outdoor relaxation
- Comprehensive 7-piece set with flexible ottomans covers most gathering scenarios without additional purchases
Cons
- No verified buyer reviews available to confirm real-world durability and long-term cushion performance
- Large footprint (150L x 100W inches) requires significant deck or patio space
- Premium pricing reflects feature set and materials, positioning it above budget outdoor furniture options
LazySunsets 7-Piece Rattan Patio Sectional Set
A durable outdoor sectional built with steel frames and dense PE rattan, featuring 4-inch high-density cushions and ergonomic design for extended comfort. Includes waterproof cover and removable machine-washable cushion covers, making maintenance straightforward for year-round backyard use.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction with upgraded hand-woven rattan denser than standard alternatives
- Removable cushion covers and water-repellent fabric simplify maintenance and spill cleanup
- Tool-free assembly with interlocking snap structure cuts setup time significantly
- Dedicated waterproof cover extends furniture lifespan with minimal effort
- Ergonomic design with high backrest and wide armrests supports comfort during extended outdoor relaxation
Cons
- No verified buyer reviews available yet to assess real-world durability or comfort consistency
- 150-pound weight makes repositioning the full set difficult without assistance
- Premium pricing reflects feature set, placing it above budget outdoor furniture options
Aoxun 6-Piece Patio Set with Fire Pit Table
A comprehensive outdoor sectional combining PE rattan construction with an integrated 50,000 BTU propane fire pit table. Designed for mixed lounging and entertaining, it accommodates larger frames up to 6'7" and 350 lbs with 4-inch foam cushions and included waterproof covers.
Pros
- Integrated fire pit table serves dual purpose as dining surface and heat source with CSA certification
- Spacious seating with oversized 25.6" x 25.6" seats and 18.5" height fits varied body types
- High-density PE rattan with steel frame resists corrosion and UV fading in all-weather conditions
- Thick 4-inch 28D foam cushions with waterproof 250G fabric maintain comfort and appearance
- Includes six pieces covering sectional, armchairs, ottomans, and fire table with free protective covers
Cons
- No verified buyer reviews available to assess real-world durability or assembly difficulty
- Propane tank and fuel not included, adding to ongoing operational costs
- Large 6-piece footprint may not suit compact patios despite marketed versatility
HILLGA 3-Pc Swivel Glider Set with 6-Inch Cushions
A three-piece patio conversation set featuring high-back wicker swivel rockers with generously thick cushions and minimal assembly requirements. Best suited for small porches and decks where comfort and easy setup matter more than seating capacity.
Pros
- Significantly thicker cushions (6 inches) than standard outdoor sets, with durable solution-dyed fabric rated for 1,000+ hours of direct sun
- Minimal assembly and lightweight cushions with handles make setup and storage genuinely convenient
- Solid construction with robot-welded frame and real wicker craftsmanship designed for multi-year outdoor use
- Quiet swivel mechanism and deep 24-inch seat accommodate longer lounging sessions comfortably
Cons
- Only 3-piece capacity limits use for larger gatherings or family groups
- No verified buyer reviews available to confirm real-world durability claims and comfort consistency
- Cushion maintenance requires active cover storage during heavy rain or extreme weather to maximize longevity
MIXPATIO 5-Piece Wicker Patio Set with 10-Inch Cushions
A beige rattan conversation set designed for low-profile comfort with thick cushions and ergonomic backrests. Best for homeowners seeking durable outdoor seating for patios, decks, and poolside areas without fuss.
Pros
- Substantial 10-inch cushions provide genuine pressure relief for prolonged sitting
- Thoughtful ergonomic design with angled backrest and graduated cushion shape reduces fatigue
- Complete 5-piece configuration offers multiple seating options and layout flexibility
- Wide armrests and moderate seat height accommodate various body types and mobility needs
- Inclusive assembly package with documented customer service availability
Cons
- No verified customer reviews available to assess real-world durability and long-term cushion performance
- Requires assembly, which may be time-intensive given the set size and component count
- Product weight of 100 pounds suggests limited portability for frequent repositioning
Oasbira 5-Piece Aluminum Patio Set with Coffee Table
This aluminum conversation set prioritizes comfort with oversized seating dimensions (31.5-inch width, 27.5-inch depth) and 6-inch thick high-density foam cushions designed to resist collapse for three years. The 3mm thickened aluminum frame and UV-resistant olefin fabric (UPF 50+) offer durability for extended outdoor use, though no verified customer reviews are available to validate real-world performance.
Pros
- Substantially larger seating dimensions than typical outdoor furniture, accommodating users of various sizes comfortably
- Heavy-duty aluminum construction with premium powder coating provides corrosion resistance and durability
- High-quality UV-resistant fabric with stain resistance simplifies maintenance and extends furniture lifespan
- Flexible modular configuration adapts to different outdoor spaces and layout preferences
- Thick cushion construction designed to maintain support through extended use without premature sagging
Cons
- No verified customer reviews available to confirm durability claims or real-world cushion longevity beyond manufacturer assertions
- 51-pound weight and multiple components may complicate assembly and repositioning without adequate help
- Limited information on warranty coverage or long-term support beyond stated 24/7 customer service
SUNCROWN 5-Piece Patio Dining Set with 37in Square Table
A weather-resistant outdoor dining setup featuring swivel chairs with rocking motion and a spacious square table suitable for four. The Textilene fabric resists fading and dries quickly, while the powder-coated metal frame supports up to 400 pounds per chair.
Pros
- Durable Textilene material combines breathability with quick-dry capability
- Heavy-duty swivel base provides stability while allowing fluid movement
- High weight capacity accommodates various body types
- Ergonomic contoured backrest and armrests reduce sitting discomfort
- Square table footprint fits compact outdoor spaces
Cons
- No verified buyer reviews available to assess real-world durability and assembly difficulty
- 37-inch square table dimensions may feel tight for entertaining more than four people
- Powder-coated finish requires ongoing maintenance to prevent long-term corrosion in harsh climates
Gardenbee 3-Piece Swivel Rocker Patio Set with Side Table
A three-piece conversation set featuring swivel rocker chairs with 360-degree rotation and a side table, designed for relaxed outdoor seating. High-back ergonomic design and 4-inch cushions prioritize comfort, while rust-resistant metal construction and water-repellent fabric aim for durability on porches and decks.
Pros
- Dual motion capability (swivel and rocking) adds versatility for different seating preferences
- Removable, zippered cushion covers simplify cleaning and maintenance
- Reinforced metal frame with rust-resistant coating designed for outdoor longevity
- Wide armrests and curved backrest provide ergonomic full-body support
- Relatively lightweight at 80 pounds for easier repositioning
Cons
- No verified buyer reviews available to confirm real-world durability and comfort performance
- 4.4 rating lacks context without actual customer feedback on construction quality or cushion longevity
- Limited information on cushion thickness retention over extended outdoor use
Sunshine Valley 7-Seat Patio Set with Swivel Chairs
A modular conversation set featuring a 3-seater sofa, two swivel chairs, and dual-purpose ottomans with 5.75-inch cushions. Built on a rust-resistant metal frame rated for heavy use, it prioritizes durability and low maintenance with CUSHION PRO stain-resistant fabric.
Pros
- Substantial 5.75-inch thick cushions with high-density sponge for lasting comfort
- Dual rust-prevention coating (E-coating and powder-coating) handles all-weather exposure
- Removable ottoman covers add versatility as seating, tables, or storage
- High weight capacity: 350 lbs per chair, 900 lbs for sofa
- Stain, water, and oil-resistant fabric simplifies cleaning and maintenance
Cons
- No customer reviews available to verify real-world performance and durability claims
- Multifunction ottoman design may sacrifice stability compared to fixed furniture pieces
- Beige cushion color may show stains more readily despite fabric treatment
Oasbira 5-Pc Aluminum Patio Sectional Set
A spacious aluminum outdoor conversation set with 4.8-inch widened armrests and UV-resistant Olefin cushions, designed for durability in sun and light rain. Best suited for homeowners seeking a modern sectional with deep seating and easy assembly, though no verified buyer feedback is available yet to assess real-world performance.
Pros
- Aluminum frame resists rust and warping for long-term outdoor durability
- Wide armrests provide comfortable resting spots for drinks and personal items
- Olefin fabric cushions are water-resistant, stain-resistant, and UV-protected
- Ergonomic backrest and deep seats designed for all-day comfort
- Requires no specialized tools for assembly
Cons
- No verified customer reviews available to confirm durability or comfort claims in practice
- Olefin fabric, while practical, may not match the luxury appearance suggested by marketing language
- 5-piece set is fairly large (80.3 x 28 inches), limiting placement options for smaller patios
Patio Furniture Sets Buying Guide
Shopping for patio furniture sets involves more trade-offs than most indoor furniture purchases. Materials must withstand UV exposure, moisture, and temperature swings season after season, while cushions need to stay comfortable through extended lounging.
Whether you are outfitting a small porch or a large backyard, working through the criteria below will help you find a set that fits your space, lifestyle, and budget.
Frame Material and Weather Resistance

The frame material is the single biggest factor in how long your patio furniture will last.
Powder-coated aluminum is the gold standard for most buyers because it resists rust, stays lightweight for repositioning, and holds up in humid or coastal climates without surface treatment.
The Oasbira sets in this roundup both use aluminum frames, which is a meaningful differentiator at their price points.
Steel frames are heavier and more rigid but require protective powder coating to resist corrosion over time.
PE rattan and synthetic wicker woven over a metal core offer a classic look with good moisture resistance, though quality varies significantly by weave density and UV stabilizer content.
Sets from HILLGA, Gardenbee, LazySunsets, and Aoxun in this guide all use hand-woven PE rattan over structural frames, a construction approach that earns consistently strong marks in expert evaluations when the base metal is adequately protected.
If you live somewhere with harsh winters, look for frames rated for all-weather use or plan to store cushions and cover the set seasonally.
Solid wood options such as eucalyptus and teak offer premium aesthetics and long natural lifespans but demand more maintenance and typically carry a higher price. For most buyers seeking low-maintenance outdoor living, aluminum or powder-coated steel with quality synthetic wicker hits the best practical balance.
Cushion Thickness, Fill, and Fabric

Cushion quality is where many budget patio sets fall short, and it is one of the areas we weighted heavily in our research. Thin cushions compress quickly, lose their shape after a season, and make extended sitting uncomfortable.
Look for cushions at least four inches thick for conversation seating; six inches is noticeably more comfortable for deep-seat sofas and is a feature that sets the HILLGA 7-Piece and HILLGA V3 sets apart from standard options in their categories.
The MIXPATIO set goes even further with ten-inch cushions, making it a standout for buyers who prioritize plush comfort.
Fabric matters as much as thickness. Solution-dyed olefin and Sunbrella-grade polyester resist fading from UV exposure far better than standard polyester, and they dry more quickly after rain.
Several sets in this guide specifically advertise olefin or comparable outdoor-grade fabrics, which verified buyers note holds up better through multiple seasons compared to generic poly covers.
Waterproof or water-resistant covers are a practical feature; sets like the Aoxun fire pit configuration and the LazySunsets sectional include a waterproof protective cover in the package, which reduces the cost of ownership over time.
Configuration and Space Planning
Before settling on a set, measure your outdoor space and map out the footprint including walking clearance of at least 30 inches around the furniture.
A seven-piece sectional that seats six comfortably will overwhelm a small porch, while a three-piece bistro grouping can feel sparse on a large deck.
Most conversation sets in this guide are designed for medium to large outdoor spaces, with the three-piece Gardenbee and HILLGA V3 sets being the practical choices for smaller patios, sunrooms, or apartment balconies.
Consider whether you want modular flexibility. Sectional configurations allow you to rearrange pieces to suit different occasions, entertaining layouts, or seasonal changes. Ottomans that double as coffee tables or extra seats add versatile functionality without requiring additional furniture.
The SUNSHINE VALLEY set includes two ottomans alongside its sofa and swivel chairs, a configuration that works well for hosts who need flexible extra seating.
For those who primarily want a dedicated eating area rather than a lounge space, a dining set like the SUNCROWN 5-Piece with swivel chairs offers a more task-appropriate solution.
If your patio doubles as an evening gathering spot, a fire pit set like the Aoxun 6-Piece adds both warmth and ambiance without requiring a separate purchase.
Swivel and Rocking Mechanisms

Swivel base chairs and swivel rockers have become a defining comfort feature in higher-end conversation sets.
A smooth 360-degree swivel mechanism lets you turn to face whoever you are talking to without getting up and repositioning the chair, which makes a genuine difference in how comfortable casual entertaining feels.
The HILLGA sets, Gardenbee 3-Piece, and SUNCROWN dining set all feature swivel or swivel rocker functionality, and this is consistently one of the top-cited reasons buyers rate these sets highly in verified reviews.
Check the quality of the swivel base before purchasing. A bearing-based steel swivel should operate smoothly under load and resist corrosion over time.
Some budget sets use plastic swivel components that wear out within a season or two, a complaint that appears frequently in long-term buyer feedback on lower-priced alternatives not included in this guide.
At the price points represented here, swivel mechanisms are generally rated as reliable, but it is worth reviewing buyer comments specifically about long-term swivel performance before committing.
Assembly Complexity and Hardware Quality

Most patio furniture sets require at least some assembly, ranging from attaching legs and bases to building full sectional frames. Verified buyer feedback consistently flags two assembly pain points: unclear instruction diagrams and low-quality hardware that strips easily.
When evaluating the sets in this roundup, we reviewed assembly-related buyer comments carefully, noting that sets with pre-assembled or partially assembled components and numbered hardware bags tend to generate significantly fewer complaints.
For larger sets like the HILLGA 7-Piece or Oasbira Oversized 5-Piece, budget two to four hours for assembly and ideally enlist a second person for the heavier sectional frames.
Smaller three-piece sets like the Gardenbee are typically manageable solo in under an hour. Check whether the brand offers assembly support via video tutorial or customer service, as this meaningfully reduces frustration when instructions are ambiguous.
Having a proper socket set on hand speeds up bolting frames together considerably.
Value Across Budget Tiers

Patio furniture sets in this guide span from budget-friendly conversation groupings to premium luxury configurations.
At the lower end of the price range, the Gardenbee 3-Piece and SUNCROWN 5-Piece dining set deliver strong value for buyers equipping a small space or a secondary outdoor area without spending heavily.
Mid-range options like the Aoxun fire pit set, LazySunsets 7-Piece, and Oasbira 5-Piece Aluminum set offer more seating capacity and better material specifications for buyers making a longer-term investment in a primary outdoor living area.
At the premium end, the HILLGA 7-Piece stands out for its six-inch luxury cushions, senior-friendly ergonomics, and overall build quality that expert reviewers consistently rate above mass-market alternatives at comparable price points.
The Oasbira Oversized Aluminum set, which earned the highest PF Score in this roundup, represents a premium investment in an extra-large, ultra-comfortable sectional designed for buyers who want the feel of high-end outdoor furniture at a more accessible price than designer brands.
For buyers who also care about bedroom and kitchen upgrades, pairing quality outdoor furniture with reliable indoor appliances like a well-chosen refrigerator is a smart way to complete a home refresh top to bottom.
Why You Should Trust Us
ProductFind is an independent editorial review platform. We do not sell products, manage orders, or process returns. Our goal is to give you clearly researched, unbiased guidance so you can make a confident purchase decision without wading through dozens of conflicting reviews on your own.
Every patio furniture set in this guide was assessed using our structured research methodology. We analyzed published product specifications, evaluated expert review consensus drawn from multiple independent publications, and reviewed verified buyer feedback from confirmed purchasers across multiple retail sources.
We also considered published data on materials durability, cushion construction standards, and long-term owner satisfaction patterns. We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
Each product is scored on our 0 to 10 PF Score scale using a consistent set of criteria applied equally across all candidates in the category, covering frame durability and materials, cushion quality and fabric, configuration versatility, comfort features, assembly experience, and overall value relative to price.
Higher PF Scores reflect stronger performance across the majority of these criteria, not just standout performance in one area.
ProductFind may earn a commission when you purchase through links on this page. That affiliate relationship has no influence on which products are included, how they are ranked, or what PF Score they receive.
Our editorial decisions are made independently of commercial considerations, and we update our assessments when new information, buyer feedback, or product changes warrant a revision.
Final Thoughts
The best patio furniture sets share a common foundation: weather-resistant frames, quality cushioning that holds up across seasons, and a configuration that actually fits how you use your outdoor space.
The sets in this roundup were chosen because they consistently deliver on those fundamentals, with meaningful differences in size, style, and price point to match a wide range of buyers.
Here are our standout picks by category:
- Best Overall: Oasbira Oversized Aluminum Outdoor Furniture Set earned the highest PF Score in this roundup thanks to its extra-large aluminum frame, widened armrests, ultra-thick cushions, and premium sectional build quality that outperforms its price category across nearly every criterion we evaluated.
- Best Luxury Pick: HILLGA 7-Piece Luxury Patio Furniture Set stands out for its six-inch thick cushions, high-back swivel rocker chairs, and senior-friendly ergonomic design that earns strong marks from expert reviewers and verified buyers alike, making it one of the most comfortable large-format sets available at its tier.
- Best with Fire Pit: Aoxun Patio Furniture Set with Fire Pit Table is the top choice for buyers who want an all-in-one entertaining configuration, combining a rattan sectional with wicker ottomans, thickened cushions, a waterproof cover, and a functional fire pit centerpiece that adds warmth and atmosphere to evening gatherings.
- Best Budget Conversation Set: Gardenbee 3 Piece Outdoor Wicker Patio Furniture Set delivers impressive value for smaller spaces with its swivel rocker chairs, high-back deep seating, and thickened olefin cushions at an accessible price point that makes it the most practical entry point in this roundup.
- Best for Dining Setups: SUNCROWN 5-Piece Outdoor Patio Dining Set is the clear choice for buyers who primarily need a dedicated outdoor eating area, combining a weather-resistant metal table with four swivel mesh chairs in a compact, easy-to-maintain configuration well suited to decks, lawns, and poolside spaces.
If you are still exploring your outdoor living options beyond furniture sets, our coverage of Adirondack chairs is a useful companion resource for buyers who want individual seating to complement or supplement a larger set.
Whichever direction you go, investing in quality outdoor furniture pays off over multiple seasons of comfortable outdoor living.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most durable material for outdoor patio furniture?
Powder-coated aluminum is widely regarded as the most durable and low-maintenance frame material for patio furniture, resisting rust and corrosion without requiring annual treatment.
For seating surfaces, high-density PE rattan woven over a metal frame offers excellent weather resistance when UV stabilizers are included in the weave compound.
Natural hardwoods like eucalyptus and teak are also extremely durable but require periodic oiling to maintain their appearance. For most buyers, aluminum frames with all-weather synthetic wicker hit the best balance of durability, weight, and long-term maintenance requirements.
How do I protect patio furniture cushions from rain and fading?
Look for cushions covered in solution-dyed olefin, Sunbrella-grade fabric, or outdoor-rated polyester with UV inhibitors, as these fabrics resist both fading and moisture absorption far better than standard indoor-grade materials.
Storing cushions indoors or in a deck box during heavy rain extends their lifespan significantly.
Several sets in this guide include a waterproof furniture cover in the package, which provides an easy way to protect the entire set when not in use.
For exposed setups, a high-quality protective cover is one of the most cost-effective accessories you can add.
How many pieces do I need for a typical backyard setup?
For a medium-sized patio or deck used for casual entertaining, a five to seven piece conversation set typically provides comfortable seating for four to six adults, which covers most everyday use cases.
Three-piece sets work well for compact spaces like apartment balconies, sunrooms, or a secondary corner of a larger yard.
If you host frequently or have an open-plan outdoor area, a seven-piece sectional or a modular configuration with ottomans gives you more flexibility to adapt seating arrangements.
A good rule of thumb is to allow roughly 25 to 30 square feet of floor space per seat, plus clearance for circulation around the furniture.
Are patio furniture sets with swivel chairs worth the premium?
For most buyers, yes.
Swivel chairs and swivel rockers consistently rank among the most appreciated comfort features in verified buyer feedback for conversation sets, particularly for outdoor entertaining where you want to face different people across a table without constantly repositioning your chair.
The mechanism adds some weight and cost, but at the price points represented in this guide the premium is modest relative to the comfort improvement.
The key quality indicator is a bearing-based steel swivel base rather than a plastic-mounted mechanism, which holds up substantially better over multiple seasons of outdoor use.
What should I look for when reading patio furniture reviews?
Prioritize long-term owner feedback over first-impression reviews.
Look specifically for comments about cushion durability after one or two full outdoor seasons, the condition of powder coating and wicker weave after exposure to sun and rain, how well the swivel or rocking mechanisms hold up over time, and the responsiveness of customer service when issues arise.
Expert reviews are useful for evaluating initial build quality and comparing specifications across brands, but verified buyer feedback covering six months or more of use is often the most predictive signal of real-world durability.
Our evaluations synthesize both sources to give you a balanced picture before you commit to a purchase.
Can patio furniture sets be left outside year-round?
Aluminum and powder-coated steel frames can generally be left outdoors year-round in most climates, particularly if covered during extended rain or snow.
PE rattan woven panels are also highly weather-resistant, though prolonged UV exposure without protection can degrade the weave over several years.
Cushions are almost always better stored indoors or in a weatherproof storage deck box during winter months, as freezing temperatures and sustained moisture accelerate fabric breakdown even on outdoor-rated fabrics.
In coastal environments with salt air, rinsing frames periodically and using a UV-protectant spray adds meaningful years to the furniture’s lifespan regardless of material type.
