Summer is almost here. As the sun shines bright and warm, many homeowners want outdoor patio furniture to enjoy the backyard. Creating a cozy and functional outdoor space starts with choosing the right, long-lasting furniture.
Outdoor furniture can be made from many materials, but one of the most common and for good reason is metal. Two popular options are aluminum and steel patio furniture. Metal is the most durable material for outdoor furniture, and steel and aluminum are two of the most frequently used metals.
In this article, we will discuss features like weight, durability, and rust resistance of aluminum versus steel. We will see how each one performs as outdoor furniture.
We will also explore how other materials like wrought iron and teak affect not just the look, but also how well your outdoor space works. Understanding the strengths and traits of each material will help you make an informed choice for outdoor furniture.
Table of Contents
Highlights
- Patio furniture made of aluminum is easy to move from one spot to another. The reason is, it has very little weight.
- Aluminum resists rust and will not rot over time. This means, you do not have to do much work to take care of it.
- You can find aluminum furniture in many styles and colors. So, you can pick one that fits your taste.
- But aluminum can bend or get scratched easily. Also, lightweight pieces may blow away in strong winds.
- Patio furniture made of steel is very tough and long-lasting. So, it can withstand rough weather without any issues.
- Steel furniture also comes in different styles to match the look of your outdoor area.
- However, furniture made of steel is quite heavy. This makes it hard to move from one place to another.
- Depending on the weather outside, steel furniture can get very hot or freezing cold to touch. Another thing is, steel furniture costs more than aluminum.
- If you want furniture that is easy to care for and lightweight, aluminum is a wise choice.
- But if you need super strong furniture that nature’s forces cannot harm, steel is the better option.
- You can also think about other materials for patio furniture. Wrought iron gives a classic look. Teak wood is beautiful and durable. Rattan and wicker give a casual feel. Cast iron adds an elegant touch.
- Before buying patio furniture, consider the weather in your area. Also, think about how you plan to use the outdoor space and how much money you want to spend.
Aluminum Patio Furniture
Many people like aluminum outdoor furniture because it’s light. You can easily move it around. But did you know that there are other great things about aluminum patio furniture? They include:
1. Rust Resistance And Durability:
Aluminum outdoor furniture is very good at resisting rust and corrosion, too. It forms a natural layer that protects the metal from rusting. Therefore, this kind of furniture will last for many years without being affected much by the weather conditions. With little effort of maintenance, you are guaranteed of using it in your outdoor living space worry free.
2. Minimal Maintenance Required:
Like I mentioned before, because aluminum does not easily corrode, then it does not also require regular painting or sealing for the purpose of maintaining its look. This makes selection for your patio furniture quite easy since not much work will be needed to keep them in good condition always.
3. Through Powder Coated Protection:
Most outdoor tables and chairs have powder coating. This is a special cover applied on their surfaces which they are baked at high temperatures. It protects the metal against rain, sun, and other weather elements while providing them with a smooth finish that makes the furniture attractive.
Pros of Aluminum Patio Furniture
There are many advantages to using aluminum for outdoor furniture:
1. No Rust:
Aluminum does not rust, which is its biggest advantage.
2. Lightweight:
Aluminum weighs only one-third as much as the lightest steel. This makes it easy to move chairs and tables around. You can take them into the sun or bring them close to a fire pit at night.
3. Resists Corrosion:
Aluminum resists corrosion better than raw cast iron or steel, although it may corrode superficially in the form of a duller surface or thin layer of aluminum oxide. Powder coatings provide color options with very low cost, added durability.
4. Easily Malleable:
What attracts manufacturers most about aluminum is that it can be shaped any way they want through cutting or bending, owing to its malleability property.
5. Little Maintenance Needed:
Aluminum patio furniture hardly requires any maintenance at all. If an aluminum oxide film forms on it, this can be easily cleaned off by simply scrubbing with soap and water.
6. Cheaper for People:
Aluminum happens to be one of the best materials when making outdoor furniture. It is especially true if you consider price affordability alone vis-à-vis steel prices. It tends to be higher. Although not fixed, it depends on factors such design appearance or size, addition of customized features by individual preferences among others.
Cons of Aluminum Patio Furniture
Working with metal to make outdoor sets can be tricky:
1. It is tough to weld metal:
Aluminum is easy to bend and cut, but it is hard to weld. A layer forms on the surface when exposed to air, so the welding materials cannot fuse together properly. While it can be done, welding aluminum takes more work than welding steel.
2. It is not super sturdy:
For its weight, aluminum furniture holds up okay. But it is not as durable as other metals. It can buckle or fold under heavy loads, especially if the aluminum is thin or hollow.
3. It would not withstand storms:
Because aluminum is so lightweight, strong winds might blow your furniture around. You will need to invest in hefty covers or other ways to hold the pieces in place during bad weather.
Steel Patio Furniture
Steel is a tough stuff. It makes good furniture for outside. Bad weather does not break it fast.
- Steel chairs and tables are built strong. They are heavy too. This means big winds cannot blow them over easy. Steel works well in any weather, hot or cold.
- It is ideal for different types of outdoor furniture like patio couches, seats, or fire pits among others due to its versatility; you will always find something that suits your style when it comes to steel made items.
- Resistant to rust or decay: Steel does not corrode readily neither does it rust quickly like most other metals do, although there are certain types which are more resistant than the rest. When compared with all these kinds, stainless provides protection against rusting best.
Pros of Steel Patio Furniture
Selecting steel for your patio chairs and tables is associated with many benefits, some of which include:
1. Steel is very strong and thick, which means that it does not buckle under heavy items or strong winds but rather remains firm in its position.
2. Several kinds of steel like galvanized steel as well as stainless steel do not rust easily, making them suitable for outdoor furniture. Additionally, applying powder coat on the furniture also delays the time before rusting occurs.
3. Welding steel furniture is easier than aluminum furniture because steel bends more easily even with heavy metals such as iron used together with it.
4. Steel, being very durable, will not dent or scratch nearly as easily as other materials if they were put through this; thus it can take a rock or hailstone hitting it without being damaged much at all also harsh weather won’t do too much harm either.
Cons of Steel Patio Furniture
There are some issues with steel patio furniture you need to know:
1. It gets extremely hot or cold. Steel absorbs temperature changes. So, your furniture can feel burning hot or freezing cold. To solve this issue, place it in the shade. Or, use cushions and covers when sitting on the chairs and tables.
2. It is very heavy. Steel furniture is sturdy and strong, but this makes it weigh a lot. The heavyweight makes moving the chairs and tables around much harder. You might have difficulty rearranging your furniture for guests or activities.
3. It costs more money than other options. Steel outdoor furniture usually has a higher price than other types of patio furniture. The high cost can make it less affordable for some people.
Aluminum Vs Steel Furniture
Outdoor furniture made of metal can last a long time. Steel and aluminum, however, have some differences. Here’s how they contrast:
1. Durability:
Steel furniture is heavy. It’s tough. It can last for many years. Aluminum furniture is not too heavy. But it’s still strong and long-lasting. Both steel and aluminum furniture can handle bad weather. They can handle rain and snow. They’ll stay in good shape for a long time.
2. Maintenance:
Aluminum furniture is easy to maintain; it requires only occasional cleaning with mild soap and water. This keeps the metal looking nice. Steel needs more attention such as regular cleanings will prevent rust buildup, while applying wax after cleaning can also help protect its finish from scratches which should be touched up immediately with paint to avoid further oxidation in those areas.
3. Weather Resistance:
When exposed outdoors, metals may be damaged by elements like wind or rain. Dirt should be removed frequently so that no corrosive actions take place. Aluminum does not rust easily because it’s strong; regular cleaning alone would suffice for this material, provided there is no build-up of debris on its surfaces over time. For steel, use galvanized/stainless types if located near salty-air regions; applying rustproof paint coats against oxidation, too.
4. Appearance:
Aluminum and steel both look nice. Aluminum has a modern look. Steel looks tough when kept clean with repairs as needed. Keeping them clean keeps them looking pretty for years.
5. Customization Options:
For both types of these items, one can opt for bright hues or soft tones. Powder coating them would also enhance durability, since it’s very powerful as well. Some mild soap together with water should be used while cleaning so as not to damage the finish.
6. Cost considerations:
Initially, aluminum furniture may be more expensive because it is lightweight and does not rust. However, it lasts longer and it is easy to maintain. This makes it cost-effective. Steel furniture can be cheaper. If you choose stainless steel or any other rust resistant steel, it will serve for long. This is the best option for you in case you are working under a tight budget.
Other Outdoor Furniture Materials
Many types of materials are used for outdoor furniture. Some are aluminum and steel. But there are other materials too. These materials include wrought iron, teak, rattan and wicker, and cast iron. Each one has its own look and benefits that work well for different outdoor spaces. Le is talk about the good things of each material:
1. Wrought iron furniture brings an old-school look to outdoor spaces. It has fancy patterns and is very strong. This furniture is great for areas with a vintage or classic style. Iron lasts a long time and looks good too. It blends beauty with toughness, making it cool and classy outdoors.
2. Teak furniture is made from teak wood. It looks nice and lasts for many years without rotting or decaying. Teak ages well, turning a silvery gray color over time. This natural material gives outdoor spaces an elegant look while being long-lasting. Many people like teak furniture outdoors because of its style and durability.
3. Rattan and wicker pieces create a relaxed outdoor space. These lightweight materials are perfect for casual seating areas. Comfy chairs and tables allow you to chat with friends. Or enjoy a laid-back meal outside. Rattan and wicker bring warmth and character to your patio or garden.
4. Cast iron furniture offers long-lasting style for gardens and outdoor rooms. Beautiful benches and tables showcase ornate designs. These classic details lend an elegant touch to any landscape. Cast iron pieces act as eye-catching focal points. They elevate simple spaces with timeless sophistication.
5. Small bistro sets maximize compact outdoor areas like balconies. These cozy table and chair sets come in iron, aluminum, and wood. Their petite size fits snug spaces perfectly. Yet, they allow for personalized decor through different materials. Bistro sets make the most of tiny patios.
What Is Perfect for Your Outdoor Space?
Making the right choice for outdoor furniture is important. To make your outdoor space feel just right, you need to think about what material the furniture is made of. You also need to consider the weather where you live, how you plan to use the furniture, and how much money you want to spend.
1. Weather Where You Live:
Knowing the weather where you live is key when picking outdoor furniture. Things like very hot or very cold temperatures, how humid it is, and how often it rains or snows can affect how long the furniture will last and how much work it takes to keep it looking nice. Choosing furniture made of materials that can handle the weather will help it stay in good shape for a long time.
2. Usage Planning:
Before buying outdoor furniture, think about how you want to use your outdoor space. Picture where you might put different pieces of furniture. This helps you make good choices that fit your space and goals. Do you want a cozy seating area to relax in? A dining spot for meals outside? Or a multi-use space for different activities? Choosing furniture that fits how you plan to use the area makes your outdoor space more enjoyable.
3. Setting a Budget:
It is smart to set a budget before shopping for outdoor furniture. A budget helps you focus on the most important pieces first. It also helps you pick materials that fit your budget while still looking nice. Outdoor furniture is an investment in making your outside space more livable. But setting a reasonable budget ensures you would not overspend. That way, you can get quality furniture that meets your needs and style preferences without going over your spending limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is aluminum or steel better for outdoor furniture?
Most of the time, steel patio furniture works best if you live where strong winds blow a lot. Winds can come up quickly in the summer when you put your patio set outside. Aluminum patio furniture weighs less than steel. So, the wind might push it around. That could hurt your home or yard.
What metal is best for outdoor patio furniture?
Aluminum is a top choice for outdoor items. It is lightweight yet sturdy. Aluminum also endures and resists corrosion or weather damage. Wrought iron offers another popular outside pick. It is crafted from robust elements and has an appealing look.
Does steel or aluminum last longer outside?
Stainless steel is a wise choice for outdoor metal. It lasts longer than aluminum in most cases. Stainless steel can look just like aluminum, too, since both have alike colors. The finish you choose makes the difference in them.
What material is most durable for outdoor furniture?
Teak wood is strong. It does not rot quickly. This makes it a good choice for outdoor things like boats, houses, and patio sets. Aluminum and wicker that can be outside are also great for outdoor furniture. These long-lasting materials are perfect for furnishings in your yard or deck.
Is aluminum a good choice for outdoor furniture?
Outdoor chairs and tables made of aluminum are great. They would not get moldy or rust. And they would not break or crack. This makes aluminum perfect for any weather. It works well in humid places and cold places. Your aluminum outdoor set will last through snow, rain, and hot sun. It is a tough metal.
Conclusion
Outdoor furniture made of aluminum is very light, so you can move it easily. It also does not rust or corrode. Steel furniture is very sturdy and strong. It would not bend or break if there is strong wind or bad weather. When picking outdoor furniture, think about what is most important to you. Is it easy movement or keep your furniture sturdy? consider how your furniture will look in your outdoor garden space.
