Aluminum Lawn Furniture: Making Metal Patio Furniture

Patio furniture can be constructed of many materials, each of which has its own particular advantages and disadvantages. If you consider cheap appearance, fragility, blowing in the wind and weathering as disadvantages, you might want to consider making your own patio chair, bench, table or other furniture form metal.

Metal and Weight

There are several kinds of metal that you can use to make outdoor furniture. Some metals like titanium would have the strength needed for the task, but would be quite expensive for most people. Other metals are easy on the pocket, but lack the strength. Aside from aluminum, other great metal choices include iron and steel.

There is no reason who you cannot construct your very own patio chair that weighs 100 pounds.  When shopping for materials, consider using the lightest gauge steel that you are sure to work structurally. Corner brackets and braces can add strength without too much additional weight.

Smoothing It Out

Metal stock is sold in standard configurations like sheets, rods, flats or angles, most of which can be sheared or cut close to the dimensions that you need. For most projects, however, you have to make further cuts for the various parts of the furniture. Take care in rounding off the rough edges on the original stock during the welding and cutting process. Use grinding stones and a rotary tool to make short work of this task.

Paint and Covering

You can leave aluminum bare with its natural gray color, although some people find it unpleasant. In this case, you can paint it. Painting aluminum with a lasting and durable finish is a multi-step process. Steel and iron will have to be painted or primed to prevent it from rusting. Most metals will rapidly heat under direct sunlight, even when painted a light color. If you intend to use your patio furniture during hot days, consider installing covers or pads over the parts of the metal that you will touch to keep you from getting burned.

Now that you know how to construct furniture, below are some pieces of aluminum patio furniture to get inspiration from.

Bolla Oval Coffee Table by Alfresco Home

The Bolla Oval Coffee Table by Alfresco Home features a beautiful mosaic pattern table top design with an inlaid powder coated iron tray. It is made from galvanized hardware throughout and comes with an adjustable base feet.

Sunny Rise Lounger by Lebello

Part of Lebello’s Sunny Collection, the Sunny Rise Lounger by Lebello provides a higher seating position, and is resistant to pool water, sea salt and changes in climate. It is made from non-toxic and recyclable materials and is available in several colors.

San Michele Rocker Club Chair – Set of 2 by Vifah Modern Patio

Made of extruded aluminum with refined curves and sleek lines, the San Michele Rocker Club Chair – Set of 2 by Vifah Modern Patio will give a striking contemporary European flair to your space. It is powder coated for rust resistance and is exceptionally durable.