Use of special pieces of outdoor furniture can be dated back to the 1800’s. This is when rockers and porch swings first became popular. In the 1930’s more options of outdoor furniture had been created. Aluminum and cast iron garden furniture were among the more popular choices in metal furniture used during this time. These are also still used to this day. This furniture is designed to entertain guests, to escape and relax on while outdoors and it is also used to decorate the outside of many homes today.
Wrought iron or cast iron metals work wonderfully in areas that are known to have heavy winds and storms. It is a heavier metal. This type of outdoor metal garden furniture can last for many years. It is meant to be placed and left where it is, as it is heavy. The design in the cast iron can be simple, sleek curves or can obtain intricate scroll work. Many people use cast iron benches, because of their beauty, to decorate the exterior of the home.If using the cast iron or wrought iron furniture for lounging, it is best to purchase outdoor cushions for the seat and back. The metal tends to be hard and cold which makes it not very comfortable for entertaining.
Aluminum is a lighter weight metal. This type of outdoor metal garden furniture is useful if the piece needs to be portable. It does not stand up to storms or heavy winds the way that cast iron will. It is so light that, in some cases, poor weather can blow the furniture around. However, most pieces of this outdoor furniture can easily be folded and put away during inclement weather. The aluminum metal garden furniture also costs quite a bit less than that made of cast iron.
With both types of metal outdoor garden furniture, aluminum or cast iron, the pieces should all be powder coated to prevent the metals from rusting. The powder coating will help the furniture withstand many different weather conditions. It can also help to make some aluminum pieces sturdier. With this special coating the furniture is also easier to clean. In most cases it will just need to be sprayed down with a hose or with a power washer. The paint will also last longer and will not chip if the coating has been properly applied to the metal.
Both choices, aluminum and cast iron, are wonderful for metal garden furniture. Before purchasing any type of outdoor garden furniture, make a checklist of what is needed from the furniture. This will help in the buying decision.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
It’s great because some of this furniture is becoming vintage and is back in vogue. I have friends who scour garage sales in older neighborhoods looking to buy these pieces.