Should You Buy Iron, Wooden or Aluminum Sling Patio Chairs?

To ensure the comfort of your guests and maximize your  success as a great entertaining host, you need the right outdoor furniture. By choosing patio furniture carefully, you can provide a relaxing atmosphere for  your guests and, and at the same time, improve your garden surroundings. You should find many choices in the market today for any décor and budget, from iron to wooden to aluminum sling patio chairs.

Iron Patio Furniture

Some of the loveliest outdoor furniture is made of metal, particularly antique-y wrought iron, which is very popular in bistro sets. Iron can be painted in various colors and is available in a wide price range. It is also great for fixed items like garden benches.

Because iron is heavy, it will last. This, however, makes it difficult to move around. On the other hand, you do not need to as it is a tough material and will resist bad weather so you can leave it outside year-round. Also, it will not blow over in heavy winds.

Perhaps one disadvantage of iron that it is not as comfortable as other types of seating, and the metal can heat up to burning temperatures in the hot sun. You can take care of this problem, though, with cushions. Also consider positioning your wrought iron furniture under a shade to keep it cool. Well made wrought iron can last for many years with regular maintenance. It needs to be repainted from time to time to prevent rust.

Aluminum

You will also see outdoor furniture made of aluminum, either as inexpensive as stacking chairs like the Teak & Aluminum Stacking Side Chair – Set of 2 by Vifah Modern Patio or more permanent, better grade items. There are really beautiful aluminum furniture pieces that are now being manufactured, although you will have to pay more for better quality pieces.

Look for cast aluminum with a special powder coating on the metal like the Chat Rocker Chairs Set of 2 by Outdoor Greatroom Company as this will help resist corrosion. Also, any furniture with nuts and bolts is a sign of cheaper manufacturing process. The best quality pieces are those that have smooth joint work.

Unlike wrought iron, aluminum will stay cooler in the heat, and is much easier to move. Those that are inexpensive and lightweight should be stowed during periods of bad weather, while the heavier-grade ones like the Kingston Sofa by Meadow Decor can be left outside.

Wood

There are so many woods used to make patio furniture, with eucalyptus, teak and redwood being the most popular these days. These three hold up well to outdoor use and will fade to a beautiful silvery color in the sunlight when left bare. Wood can also be stained, painted or varnished.

Wood furniture is durable and can last for many years with proper care. It is important to look for quality ones because cheaper products may not hold up as well. Avoid furniture made from pressure-treated lumber which contains hazardous chemicals.

During hot weather, wood stays cool to the touch. Because it is natural product that looks great, many homeowners prefer it over other types of outdoor furniture.  Wood is heavier than resin and plastic, although not as heavy as wrought iron.

How to Refinish Cast Aluminum Patio Chairs

If you plan to add a new finish to your cast aluminum patio chairs, prepare the metal in the appropriate fashion first, or considerable peeling can result. Because it is nonporous and very hard, cast aluminum is a poor candidate for new finishes. To get a new finish to permanently adhere to a cast aluminum chair, pre-treat the surface with an acid-based etching primer. When the cast aluminum piece is completely etched, it can now hold its new finish. Apply one that will remain durable in the face of consistent duress and you will have a new piece that will grace your outdoor space for a very long time.

1. Wash the cast aluminum chairs with a waterborne degreasing cleaner. Take time to thoroughly scrub every little area of the chair with steel wood. Leave no area unwashed or adhesion difficulties might arise.

2. Rinse the cast aluminum chair with a water hose. Degreasing cleaners tend to leave residues that can prevent adhesion, but you can get rid of them by thoroughly rinsing the chair for several minutes. Allow the cast aluminum chair to dry under the sun for two hours.

3. Attach a low tack painter’s tape to proportions of the chair that you do not want to get paint on, if there are any. Set the chair on a canvas drop cloth.

4. Coat the cast aluminum chair with galvanized metal etching spray primer. Create an even and attractive clearance by using the right application strategy: maintain 8 full inches between the cast aluminum chair and the spray tip. Prevents sags by keeping the etching primer spray flow moving without settling on any portion of the chair too long. Allow the cast aluminum chair to completely dry for 3 hours.

5. Finish the cast aluminum chair as you primed it. Apply an enduring enamel spray finish, and let the cast aluminum dry for 3 hours before using it.

Makes sure that you do not apply enamel finish directly over bare cast aluminum or chipping can occur. Below are beautiful cast aluminum chairs that can serve as your inspiration for refinishing your pieces.

Outdoor Armchair by Vifah Modern Patio

Made with a fully welded aluminum frame with Satin finish, the Outdoor Armchair by Vifah Modern Patio comes with plastic floor glides and is stackable for up to 5 chairs. This chair has a unique popular design with a price that fits your budget.

Semplice Bistro Chair With Factory, Supplied Cushion – Set of 2 by Alfresco Home

The Semplice Bistro Chair With Factory, Supplied Cushion – Set of 2 by Alfresco Home features a top quality wrought iron frame with a durable powder coat finish. Bringing your indoors to the great outdoors, this chair features the beautiful tones of the earth and the vibrant colors of nature.

Kingston Sofa by Meadow Décor

Constructed from cast aluminum material, the Kingston Sofa by Meadow Décor features a Walnut or Black powder coated finish for extra strength and durability. It is fully welded and comes with a cushion add-on and  is available in a wide range of colors.

8 Tips for Buying Quality Aluminum Patio Sets Clearance

A great aluminum patio sets clearance sale can bring will you the patio that  you have always dreamed of. With a spacious table and comfortable chairs, a basic brick patio can be transformed into a dining destination for friends and family. Outfit a porch with a sofa and a classic rocking chair, both stocked with ample cushions, and the porch becomes a second family room during the warmth weather months.

Do not overlook the outdoor living opportunities on pocket gardens and balconies. When complemented with the right furniture pieces, these small getaways will beckon you outside time and again. Here are some tips for choosing the best patio furniture for your space. Thoughtful planning ensures that your outdoor living space is inviting for many years to come.

Take a seat. Take a seat before you buy. Just like interior furniture, comfortable patio furniture will regularly be used as opposed to uninviting patio furniture which might have good looks but below par comfort.

Go for easy care. Reserve your free time in your garden for enjoying your space and not on maintaining furniture by buying easy-care pieces. For example, aluminum pieces like the Dimante 48″ Round Cast Aluminum Dining Table in Aged Iron Finish with Umbrella Hole by Alfresco Home. Furniture made from other materials like cedar, teak and all-weather wicker should remain usable for years.

Consider storage. Add years to the life of your patio furniture by storing it in a protected location during the off season, like the basement or garage. Even the toughest furniture will last longer if placed in storage when not in use. If you have limited storage, however, look for furniture that folds like the Royal Garden Aluminum Bistro Square Table Set by Jordan Manufacturing Company for compact storage.

Color smart. When buying patio furniture, you are not just limited to the natural tones of aluminum. Colorful finishes are abound in the realm of outdoor furniture like the Euro 5-Pc. Dining Set in White Aluminum Frame / Pacific Blue by PolyWood. For styling longevity, you can use bold splashes of color for accent pieces and cushions.

Invest in quality. The old adage “you get what you pay for” is very true when it comes to patio furniture. There are pieces that look great on the shelf and will keep their good looks for a year or two out in the sun, but they will become brittle and lose their vibrant color overtime. Shop with care and check consumer reviews and reports before you make a big purchase.

Look underfoot. Ground your patio furniture pieces by putting them on an all-weather rug. Textile advancements in recent year have brought so many quick-drying rugs in the market. Soft and rich in texture, an outdoor rug will lend the comforts of indoors to the great outdoors.

Search for multi-purpose pieces. Look for hardworking furniture, like a bench that can stand alone or be combined to an alfresco dining table, or an ottoman that doubles as extra seating are essential for outdoor spaces that are frequently used.

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.