Polywood makes really good stuff. Cast aluminum is another material that's great if it's always going to be exposed to weather.

We have a covered patio with Yardbird outdoor chairs and a couch and really like them. But with cushions I don't think I'd keep them in the elements.

It’s likely waiting for you to look at the screen on the times it takes longer. See if you have require attention for face id enabled in the settings. I'd keep it on, but you can turn it off if it annoys you.