Aluminum is a lightweight and easily molded metal that will not rust. It was first used to construct outdoor furniture in the early 1960's, when it was made from extruded, hollow-core tubing. This construction method is still used today, primarily for pool area furniture and lawn chairs. These pieces are very lightweight which allows for easy portability, but, at the same time, they are susceptible to high winds and harsh elements. For sturdier furniture, often taking the form of benches and outdoor dining, it is highly recommended that cast aluminum is utilized in construction. This type of aluminum composition is more durable and can withstand the elements far greater than standard aluminum.

The highest quality aluminum furniture pieces have a powder-coated finish. This process of powder coating entails applying colored polyester powders, then baking these powders into the aluminum frame. This process will determine the final color of the frame and adds extensive durability to each piece. This powder finish, however, is susceptible to erosion with exposure to suntan lotions and oils, salt water spray, and human perspiration. To combat this, it is strongly recommended to wash aluminum furniture with a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water at least 2 or 3 times per month, and then rinsing well. It is then wise to apply car wax, in paste form, to smooth finished aluminum frames. This will ensure an extended life of the furniture and will increase it's durability. Aluminum furniture with vinyl webbing or straps should be inspected to look for vinyl that has been processed with a mildew inhibitor and ultraviolet stabilizers. In addition, wooden pieces mounted on aluminum frames should be treated with a wood finish to increase durability and resistance to the elements.

I would like to give you some free information to read on the cleaning and maintenance of your new aluminum patio furniture. Improper care and maintenance will reduce the longevity of your new furniture just as it will do with your car or truck.

Not cleaning and waxing your new aluminum furniture frames. The most damaging materials are those that you would never guess, suntan oils, human perspiration, and environmental pollutants. When these materials are cooked by the sun into the finish of your aluminum furniture day after day without proper cleaning and waxing, damage to the finish will result.

Now that we've covered what not to do, let's talk about proper care and maintenance. Many commercial pool areas have signs that require people to put down towels before sitting or lying on the furniture. If exposure to suntan oil, body oils and acids is limited, then the vinyl won't stain as badly. This is difficult to enforce and doesn't prevent all contaminants from reaching the finish. What does work is regular cleaning with a mild detergent and a brush with a long handle on it, such as is used for cleaning cars.

I personally like dish washing detergent, because it has emulsifiers that break down oils and is almost scum free. I recommend that you clean your outdoor aluminum furniture this way every three weeks, and ideally try to get the pollutants off immediately. The aluminum frames parts of your patio furniture should be waxed with a light, non-compound car wax, such as "Turtle Wax".

Cast aluminum is constructed to last. It is to be considered as a construction material for outdoor furniture if one is seeking a piece that will stand up to time and the elements; and/or if one is seeking to purchase something that will become a family heirloom. An all-welded frame allows for an extremely durable and flexible piece of furniture; and can accomadate many different styles. Cast aluminum furniture can be left outside to face the elements year round and requires minimal cleaning and maintenance. It is a relatively lightweight furniture material and can be easily moved from location to location, which is a huge advantage of cast aluminum. Cast aluminum furniture is also finished with a powder coat, which will assist with scratch, chip, and UV resistance. The ideal powder coat finish will be electro-statically applied, then baked on to provide a smooth, clean surface.

Possessing an artisan quality and feel, wrought iron furniture will maintain its elegance from generation to generation. Wrought iron is hand painted and thus requires more maintenance than cast aluminum furniture. It is recommended that the furniture be cleaned at least monthly with mild soapy water and to touch up the paint every couple of years. For extended exposure to the elements, it may be necessary to refinish the iron. To prolong the life of wrought iron furniture or to prevent the need for refinishing, it is encouraged to store furniture in a dry place or, at a minimum, cover it during winter months and during inclement weather