Metals for Use Outdoors

Metal is typically the strongest and most durable material for outdoor garden furniture. Because of its strength, metallic frames can be thinner and shaped into more complex designs than other options, giving manufacturers greater style flexibility.

Metal is also a great choice when used in combination with other materials that have their own functional and aesthetic benefits. Of course, different kinds of metal outdoor furniture have their pros and cons. This section helps compare metals for outdoor patio furniture to help you understand your options.

Is Metal Good for Outdoor Furniture?

Metal stands out as a champion material for crafting outdoor furniture. With the right protective coating or powder finishes, it can withstand the harshest outdoor elements year after year.

The inherent strength of metal allows for the creation of thin, lightweight frames. This opens doors for sleeker designs and more intricate details that are still extremely durable. Various production techniques can create metal chairs and tables that don’t require bolts, screws or other fasteners that make other types of furniture more susceptible to breaking down.

However, metal outdoor furniture has its drawbacks as well. It heats up in the sun, making it uncomfortable to touch. However, you can always use patio covers to create shade. Certain metals are very heavy and hard to move, while all metals are vulnerable to corrosion and rust to some degree.

Types of Metal for Outdoor Furniture

Each type of metal has its own unique set of characteristics.

Stainless Steel

This sturdy metal alloy is extremely strong, which makes it a great material option for large weight-bearing outdoor dining tables, sofas and sectionals. Its high density helps prevent dents and other damage from frequent use.

While it does get hot to the touch when exposed to the summer heat, stainless steel endures extreme temperatures better than most metals. Its composition makes it virtually immune to rust and corrosion, but a powder coating is recommended for added resistance, especially in coastal areas where salt air and water are present.

If you are comparing types of stainless steel, the higher the Chromium content the more resistant the alloy is to atmospheric corrosion. Similarly, the presence of Molybdenum prevents red rust and reduces the depth of surface pitting [Mameng, Pettersson & Leygraf 2017].

Garden and patio furniture made from stainless steel is heavy and will not tip over or blow away under windy conditions. It’s a great material choice for high-end modern outdoor furniture since its sleek silvery metallic finish has a chic contemporary look. Though expensive, it’s worth every penny. Not only is it relatively easy to clean, but it’s often made using recycled metals, making it an environmentally responsible choice.

Aluminum

Aluminum is the most popular metal for outdoor furniture. Despite being lightweight, it is strong, durable and can easily be worked into a variety of intricate shapes. It’s also relatively inexpensive, low maintenance and never rusts.

Although aluminum is highly resistant to weather on its own, a polyester powder coating is recommended. This electrostatic process not only increases protection against the elements and scratching, but also allows you to add color to the mix.

You can certainly buy painted aluminum outdoor furniture, but this type of coating adheres better to the metal and is much more resistant to fading. This is also helpful if your deck or poolside is exposed to salt air, which tends to eat away at paint and untreated metal. Like other metals, aluminum heats up, so it’s best to have seat cushions to keep you cool and comfortable.

Is Steel or Aluminum Better for Outdoor Furniture

As you can see, aluminum is good for outdoor furniture, as is steel. Ultimately, whether you choose one over the other depends on your budget, environment, portability needs and personal style.

Powder-coated aluminum patio furniture is a great mid-priced option but steel is ideal for harsh environments because it is heavier and can withstand the elements. It’s roughly 2.5 time denser than aluminum. You may want to choose furniture with aluminum frames if you like to rearrange your patio often since it’s lightweight. It also has a better strength-to-weight ratio than steel.

Wrought Iron

Throughout history, iron has been used for tools, buildings and furnishings because of its strength and durability – it can last a hundred years if properly cared for. It’s among the heaviest of metals, which makes it difficult to move wrought or cast iron furniture. However, it certainly won’t blow over in the wind.

It is extremely malleable when heated and hammered into shape. This allows wrought iron to form ornate hand-crafted designs with an upscale artisan feel. Cast iron, on the other hand, is melted and poured into molds, but it’s heavier and harder to manage.

So, is wrought iron good for outdoor furniture? It depends on if you’re ready for more maintenance requirements. While it is long-lasting, outdoor iron frames and tabletops can require a lot of care to clean, maintain and protect against rusting. Fortunately, the best contemporary pieces are treated with weather-resistant finishes to seal out damaging moisture.

Additionally, wrought iron patio furniture tends to match the prevailing temperature – it gets very hot in summer and freezing cold if left out in the winter. Another potential drawback is that iron outdoor furniture is hard and can be uncomfortable without upholstery to cushion seat and backrests.

Elevating Your Metal Outdoor Furniture

Metal furniture offers undeniable advantages for outdoor spaces. It is durable and with the right protection can be rust-proof. Metal outdoor furniture sets are also sleek and extremely versatile.

While metal excels in strength and style, incorporating other materials can add a whole new dimension to your outdoor furniture arrangement. Wooden elements bring more warmth to a design to create an inviting atmosphere. Wicker and rattan, in particular, complement metal furniture to create coastal charm.

Of course, it is the cushions that truly bring metal outdoor furniture to life. Cushions not only provide much-needed comfort but also added style. Prioritize weather-resistant fabrics and cushions that provide support for your back and seating area. Cushions are also a fantastic way to inject personality into your outdoor space. Find colors or patterns that complement your personal style.

Keep reading our comprehensive guide to learn about how resin, plastics and other materials are used for outdoor furniture.

References

• Mameng, S. H., Pettersson, R., & Leygraf, C. (2017). Effect of Stainless Steel Composition on Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance at a Marine Site in Dubai. Corrosion, 73(7), 880-891.

Guide Sections

Outdoor Furniture Materials Guide

Best Woods for Outdoor Furniture

Resin Wicker, HPL & Other Patio Furniture Materials

Outdoor Wood Finishes & Metal Treatments

Varieties of Outdoor Upholstery Fabric & Sling Mesh

Patio Cushion Foam & Pillow Filler

Cleaning & Caring for Outdoor Materials