Sifas Materials
Sifas' in-outdoor furniture collections are designed using modern materials and manufacturing techniques that are environmentally responsible. Their goal is not only to create luxury tables, chairs and sofas that are stylish and last for years, but also to leave as small a carbon footprint as possible.
Structures
Lacquered Extruded Aluminum
Stainless chromed aluminum structures, lacquered and baked at (392°F). The epoxy powder coating is uniformly applied (80 micron-layer) by means of an electrostatic spray. In this process, the micro-balls of powder are attracted to the entire surface of the metal, and become perfectly fixed to the aluminum. While in the oven, they melt and harden from the heat, forming an even, and ultra-resistance layer of lacquer.
The lacquered finish by Sifas® is either smooth and shiny, or structured-granite look. The process is tested during production to verify the adhesion of the lacquer on the metal using the cross-cut test, which is a method used in the car industry (ISO standard 2409). This helps to ensure maximum resistance to the elements.
Lacquered Cast Aluminum
Liquid aluminum is injected under pressure into a steel die to form furniture components (e.g. table bases). These cast aluminum pieces are subjected to the same powder-coating process as extruded aluminum to inure the metal against corrosion and other weather-related damage.
Forged Aluminum
Exclusive technology combining cast aluminum pieces with aluminum edging for the authentic look of forged aluminum. Pre-treated, with a baked-on matte black finish.
Aged Teak
Teak is oil-rich (i.e. contains a natural oleoresin), which makes it extremely resistant to extreme climatic conditions. This allows teak hardwood furniture to remain outdoors in all weather conditions. Its color may transition to a silver grey color over time (a.k.a. patina), but the change doesn't affect its durability.
Braids, Straps & Canvas Upholstery
Braided Polyester
Polyester coated with a layer of PVC to repel water. Material wrapped around a rubber core, creating a fast-drying fabric suitable for outdoor use.
Polyester Rope
Weave consisting of 4 strands of polyester thread and reinforced by a second weave in polyester tube. For greater durability, good elasticity and quick drying.
Braided Tube Polyester
Polyester threads coated in PVC and then woven. The tube obtained is in itself reinforced by a secondary tube weave. This creates greater durability, slight elasticity and water resistance.
Strap Woven Polyester
40 mm polyester bands coated with PVC for a water-repellent, fast-drying material.
Canvas Woven Polyester
Woven PVC-coated polyester. Easy-care, fast-drying material ideal for outdoor use. Sifas uses a couple of types of woven polyester.
PVC / PES
PES - polyethersulfone - is a thermoplastic from the sulfide family. It has exceptional dimensional stability and is resistant to high and low temperatures and impact. Also good resistance to radiation.
3D Braided Polyester
The 3D fabrics used by Sifas are made of 79% polypropylene and 21% polyester. In addition to their many qualities of resistance to external agents, their characteristic honeycomb weave also provides thickness, texture and flexibility guaranteeing remarkable comfort.
Tabletops
Glass
Glass tabletops are tempered at high temperatures and lacquered for optimum resistance to the elements.The glass is then washed with acid to produce a matte non-smudge surface that requires little care.
Hammered Glass
Faceted glass hammered and soaked to make it look more authentic and increase resistance. In case of a heavy impact, the glass breaks into thousands of small pieces, thus avoiding the handling of blunt glasses.
Maintenance of glass and hammered glass - Begin by dusting to remove any harmful residue. If there are any serious and/or ingrained stains, clean with a soft sponge soaked in water + washing-up liquid. To remove the traces, there are two solutions: water + household alcohol mixture or a specific glass / window product, to be applied with a cloth or a kitchen towel. Finish by drying the glass with a clean, dry, soft cloth.
Cleaning calcium build-up (limescale) - Water and detergent: wash with a sponge soaked in washing-up liquid and a drop of white vinegar. Rinse with plenty of warm water.
Dry as soon as possible with a clean, dry cloth. Lemon juice sprinkled with salt: clean off the scale with a microfibre cloth moistened with lemon juice sprinkled with salt. Rinse with plenty of warm water. Dry as soon as possible with a clean, dry cloth.
Dishwasher rinsing fluid: spray on the dishwasher cleaner, brush a little with a toothbrush, rinse with hot water and wipe with a microfibre cloth. Rinse with plenty of warm water. Dry as soon as possible with a clean, dry cloth.
Synteak
Mass-extruded polyethylene in a blend of colors that reproduces the look of teak as closely as possible. Requires no care and is guaranteed for outdoor use.
High-Pressure Laminate (HPL)
Panel composed of sheets of resin-impregnated kraft bonded at very high pressure.
Aged Teak
Teak contains a natural oleoresin which makes it extremely resistant to climatic aggressions. This allows the furniture to stay outdoors in all conditions. Its color may turn grey over time, but this does not affect its durability.
Ceramic
Grès Cérame technology provides a matte finish guaranteed for outdoor use that requires little care.
Cushions
All our cushions come in easy-care Sunbrella 100% acrylic fabrics that resist UV, water stains and mould. For questions on how to care for the materials, see: www.sunbrella.com.
Classic Fabrics
Premium Fabrics