Today, you have many different choices when it comes to outdoor furniture material, such as rattan, wrought iron, wood, and polymer or HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene). Then there’s aluminum. It’s a popular material for outdoor furniture for many different reasons, but it may not be the right choice for you. Read on to learn a few of the pros and cons of aluminum patio furniture and answer the common question is aluminum food for outdoor furniture.
Aluminum or Cast Aluminum?
The first thing to know is that there is a difference in the types of aluminum patio furniture you can buy. Lower end aluminum pieces, such as you might find at a big box retail store, are usually made from hollow tubes welded together. They are very lightweight and thus easy to store. A drawback is that the tubular frame pieces lack decorative details due to the manufacturing process.
Cast aluminum, on the other hand, is solid and heavier. It is referred to as cast aluminum because it is molded into shape, which allows it to have much more detailed designs and little or no welds to detract from its good looks. The outdoor furniture offered at Hauser’s Patio is all high-quality cast aluminum crafted into sophisticated and contemporary styles.
Pros of Aluminum Patio Furniture
Aluminum patio furniture is rust-proof and quite easy to maintain. Because it doesn’t rust, aluminum is an ideal material for our coastal climate.
A simple hose down and a wipe with a soft, clean cloth are usually all that is needed to refresh these pieces after a season of use. For scuff marks, try rubbing in a small bit of non-abrasive cleanser, such as Barkeeper’s Friend.
Cast aluminum patio furniture can also be powder coated, which allows for a wide array of color options, including metallics, an aged finish, or the always-popular black. The color coating is baked on for durability but may occasionally need to be refinished if it gets scratched. You can always opt for a UV-resistant finish, which is recommended if you choose a bright hue, to keep it from fading in the sun.
Most cast aluminum outdoor seating pieces come with cushions for extra comfort. They can also be equipped with slings. Be aware that the frame of your furniture will undoubtedly last far longer than the cushions or the slings, so be prepared to replace these periodically.
If your aluminum patio furniture starts to show signs of aging and wear, Hauser’s Patio will gladly replace broken parts and refurbish the entire piece, including new powder coating and spot welds, if necessary. Hauser’s Patio also carries replacement parts if you would like to attempt DIY repair. Check out all our service and repair options here.
Cons of Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture
As with anything, there are a few drawbacks to owning aluminum patio furniture.
For one, the fact that it is lightweight can be a detriment during periods of strong wind. You will want to stack your aluminum chairs and other outdoor furniture against a wall or in a storage shed if a storm is brewing.
For another, aluminum is a bit hotter than wood or other materials. It doesn’t absorb as much heat as wrought iron, but it can still be uncomfortable seating without cushions in the heat of summer.
All in all, cast aluminum patio furniture is a great investment due to its longevity, durability, and good looks. We invite you to browse through our inventory of aluminum outdoor furnishings here to find a style you enjoy.
