A Buyer’s Guide to Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture Sets

Aluminum patio furniture encompasses many kinds of outdoor furniture made from including tubular aluminum, wrought aluminum,creating cast aluminum patio furniture sets. Aluminum offers a low density and an enhanced ability to prevent corrosion, making It a durable and lightweight option compared to other metals. Modern aluminum furniture is powder-coated, usually with a  baked-on application, to further enhance their strength and functionality for outdoor use. Below are examples of stylish aluminum sets:

• Fleur de Lis Cast Aluminum Bistro Set by Alfresco Home. Featuring a cast aluminum frame with powder coated weather resistant paint finish; this 3-piece set includes 2 bistro chairs and 1 bistro table.

• San Gabriel Cast Aluminum Conversation Set by Alfresco Home. With a love seat, 2 lounge chairs and a coffee table, this set is made with durable frames that will never rust. It features a mission-inspired frame design.

• Charter Cast Aluminum Dining Set by Alfresco Home. This set includes 4 stackable chairs and a 48-inch round dining table. They feature a powder-coated Antique Wine finish with a deep dark bronze with hand applied accents.

Why Should You Buy Cast Aluminum Furniture?

• It is nearly indestructible. Short of dropping it out a window, cast aluminum is built to last.

• It is timeless. Most styles are derived from architectural elements and traditional styles, giving any patio an Old World grace.

• It is versatile. It can be updated with pillows or a change of cushions to reflect your style.

• It is a great deal.  Dollar for dollar, cast aluminum is an incredible bargain.

What to Look for When Buying Cast Aluminum Furniture?

• Fully-welded cast is the hardest. If you are looking for pieces that have been assembled, ensure that they are solidly built and the hardware does not detract from the design.

• Cast aluminum should come with a powder-coated finish. Baked-on powder is typical and will ensure a long life if the furniture will be used outdoors.

• Check if it has a competitive warranty. There are all grades of cast aluminum furniture available. The length of the warranty offered is a good indicator of the quality of the furniture.

How Should You Clean Cast Aluminum Furniture?

Wash or spray the furniture with clean water or a mixture of mild soap and water to routinely remove dirt and dust. Do not use any abrasive cleaners or powder washes. Chips and scratches can be touched up. Contact your patio furniture retailer for paint made specifically for your brand. Hold the can 10 inches away from the area to be treated and spray with several thin coats, giving ample time between coats for the paint to dry.

Cast aluminum furniture should be covered during winter or stored in a garage or shed to protect it from harsh elements. If you live in a climate with freezing conditions, do not store your furniture upside down. Otherwise, water can gather in the frames, freeze, and cause their frame to burst. Drain accumulated water inside the frames by removing foot caps or adjuster glides from the leg bottoms.

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.

Winter Outdoor Checklist: Aluminum Sling Patio Furniture and Décor

Proper care is key to getting the most out of your outdoor living investment. During the summer season, we are attentive to patio furniture, spending time and regular care as well enjoy and entertain in the warmer weather. Fall seems to come overnight, and what was once a comfortable spot to relax is no more. There are so many things that merit our attention, but perhaps the most important of them all is our outdoor furniture. Below are a few tips for optimal care of your aluminum sling patio furniture.

When it comes to outdoor furniture, it is all about material, so be sure that you know what your furniture is made of, including its frame and hardware. The best case scenario for all furniture is to store it in a warm dry place. But if extra space is a premium for you, your next best step is undercover outside, under an eave or in a shed.

Covers are recommended for outdoor winter storage. Aside from protecting the pieces from the elements, they also serve as protection from unforeseen hazards like for homeowners whose beautiful outdoor furniture becomes a winter home for the neighborhood stray cats. If you must leave your outdoor furniture outside, choose a good quality cover and make sure that it properly fits your piece. Covers that sag with pooling water will not give the best protection.

When it comes to metal furniture, check the pieces carefully for rust. Should you find any, use a wire brush or soft steel wool pad to clean its surface. Apply a rust-preventing outdoor paint, and cover or store it in a covered area, preferably indoors.

Aluminum furniture, however, will not rust, so covering it to avoid rust is not needed. However, the protection that a good cover gives is always preferably to being exposed to the elements. If you leave aluminum furniture out uncovered, more care is needed during spring to remove mold, dirt and natural debris like leaves and pine needles. Below are some examples of durable and stylish aluminum furniture.

Basilica Mosaic Outdoor Console Table by Alfresco Home

Featuring hand-laid mosaics made from natural tiles, the Basilica Mosaic Outdoor Console Table by Alfresco Home features wrought iron frames that are coated with a powder coat paint finish to make it weather proof. It also has a rust resistant finish.

 Teak & Aluminum Stacking Side Chair – Set of 2 by Vifah Modern Patio

With the Teak & Aluminum Stacking Side Chair – Set of 2 by Vifah Modern Patio, you are bring  both aesthetics  and functionality into your living environment. This hand-crafted piece of furniture will bring nature’s beauty to your own outdoor space.

Skin Bench by Lebello

The Skin Bench by Lebello is a solid modular bench system that is designed to withstand  69 tons of force to create a solid aluminum curve. The top inserts are customizable and includes FSC certified teak or CL lamination. It comes with a bolt option.

Aside from your outdoor tables and chairs, you also have to take care of your cushions and umbrellas. Depending on what they are made of, most cushions are water resistant and can be stored with the furniture. To be sure, though, check the tag for care instructions or store them in a plastic bag indoors. Umbrellas should be covered and stored in a dry place.

Complement Aluminum Pool Furniture with an Aluminum Pergola

An aluminum pergola is one of the best items that you can get to bring an aesthetic feeling to  your outdoor space, particularly in your pool area. Picking the right pergola should be the priority before anything else, so you do not make any mistake in the process of installation, as well as ensure that it is suitable for the size of your outdoor space.

Aluminum pergolas are offered by manufacturers in various sizes, styles, shapes and designs. It might be hard to pick the style when you do not know the simple  style to build at home. For easily installation, opt for a pergola with a square or rectangular shape. This is also the best option if you have a relatively conventional outdoor area. On the other hand, for quirky spaces and landscaping, you could go with circular and even triangular shapes.

The material used in making pergolas varies, from wood to vinyl to plastic. But if you want something that is durable and weather resistant, aluminum pergolas are the best option. They are not only available in metal finishes, as you can get them covered with different types of colors that will suit your aluminum pool furniture and garden decors.

Once you are done with the pergola installation (you can get a professional or do it on your own, perhaps with the help of your friends), it is not time for you to adorn it. To give it a somewhat romantic feel, grow roses or grape vines along the pergola. It should also bring you shade. It can also be a great gardening spot. Otherwise, you can skip the vines and use fabric cover made from vinyl as the shade.

Under the pergola, you can get furniture pieces like an outdoor bed or hammock with colorful cushions. Below are some great pieces to consider.

Sunny Rise Lounger by Lebello

A part of the Sunny Collection, the Sunny Rise Lounger by Lebello is an outdoor lounge chair available with a foot stool or side table. Providing a higher seating position, this is suitable for contract projects. Resistant to pool water, sea salt and changes in climate, this lounger is non-toxic and is made from 100% recyclable materials. They also come in several colors.

Chat Rocker Chairs Set of 2 by Outdoor Greatroom Company

The Chat Rocker Chairs Set of 2 by Outdoor Greatroom Company are comfortable and stylish chairs that you would make great additions to  your outdoor space. Available in set of two, these rocking chairs come with low rise and extra wide seating for utmost sitting ease. Their  aluminum frame comes in a Dora finish a Toffee color cushion.

San Michele Loveseat by Vifah Modern Patio

Made of extruded aluminum with sleek lines and refined curves, the San Michele Loveseat by Vifah Modern Patio is a striking contemporary piece with European flair. Its finely crafted and powder-coated frames are exceptionally durable while its deep plush cushions invite hours of outdoor entertainment in total comfort.

How to Properly Clean Aluminum Wicker Patio Furniture

The simple process of cleaning aluminum wicker patio furniture can make your home shine. Aluminum is one of the most abundant metals on earth and is used to make a wide range of household items like tables, pots and pans. If you own any piece of aluminum, be it furniture or something else, you need to have an idea an of  how to properly clean it so you can enjoy and use your aluminum pieces for a longer period of time. Below are some great aluminum furniture pieces.

• Manhattan Outdoor Coffee Table by Nuevo Living. The table features a woven synthetic polyurethane rattan finish that provides the perfect balance for earthy sophistication, water resistance and durability. It has a  glass table top, a double-welded powder-coated aluminum frame and powder-coated finish.

• Paragon Chaise Lounge by Meadow Décor. Featuring a fully welded cast aluminum construction, this chaise lounge come with wheels for transporting ease. Its revolutionary design and dependable quality ensures a 15-year warranty on its frames and 3 years on its powder coating. It is available in a Black or Mocha Stone finish.

• Weave Design Cast Aluminum Bakers Rack with Doors in Antique Fern Finish by Alfresco Home. This bakers rack is made from rust-proof polished cast aluminum along with a durable powder coat finish that features Antique Fern Pantina highlights with exquisite pattern and detailing. It has a 5-year warranty on its frames and 2 years on its finish.

Composition of Aluminum

Aluminum is a very light and soft metal that is able to resist corrosion. To make it stronger, it is usually anodized or mixed with other materials like copper or magnesium. Anodizing is a chemical process where the top layer of the metal is treated to make it thicker, which also makes it stronger. Even though it is naturally anti-corrosive, aluminum responds to oxygen exposure by developing a coating on its surface. Cleaning aluminum will remove this coasting and restore the metal’s shine.

How to Clean Aluminum

The first step in cleaning aluminum is to rid the item of any dust and debris by wiping or washing it down. A fine grade steel wool or pad can be used to scrub away food or other dirt stuck to the object’s surface. Next, determine if the aluminum is unfinished. An aluminum object covered in paint, lacquer or another coating should be cleaned according to the requirements of the coating instead of the material.

Thoroughly clean the item using an acid-based solution. Acids remove the oxidized coating that naturally develops on aluminum surfaces. You can use acids like hydrofluoric acid or bleach but they have many side effects and do not do a better job than the ones in your home. The natural acids found in apples, lemons and tomatoes can be just as effective as harsh chemicals minus the toxicity.

How to Protect Aluminum

Because aluminum naturally reacts with oxygen exposure, consider giving your aluminum furniture a protective coating to impede the development of an oxide coating. To do so, apply a thin coating of lemon or olive oil to the item’s surface with a soft rag. The oil will act as a barrier.