There are all sorts of different types of garden furniture, plastic, wooden, cast iron – so much choice and so little time! But have you considered cast aluminium as your garden furniture material of choice? There are many reasons why cast aluminium could be the perfect choice for you and your garden but, first of all, what exactly is cast aluminium?
What is cast aluminium?
Cast aluminium is often used for furniture, cookware and even automobile parts. It is a type of metal alloy which has gone through a casting process, which makes the metal stronger and more durable. Its strength, durability, low cost and efficiency make it the perfect material for use in everyday items, from radiators and frying pans to patio sets and tables.
Benefits of cast aluminium
So, why should you choose cast aluminium for your next purchase? Aluminium furniture does have several benefits, which could just sway you away from cast iron, wood or plastic. Hey, we’re not taking sides honestly!
- Light-weight:
This may seem like a fairly trivial point but wait until it’s time to store your garden furniture away for the winter and you will see the benefits. Cast aluminium is considerably lighter than cast iron, which means it can be placed on your lawn without causing any damage. Being lightweight means you can move it around the garden and away to store without too much difficulty. However, it’s worth mentioning that it is heavy enough to stay put when the mighty British winds are blowing, so you won’t need to worry about your patio set ending up in your neighbour’s garden! - Durability:
One of the key benefits of cast aluminium is that it requires very little maintenance to keep it looking brand-spanking new. It is resistant to rust and mould and only needs a wipe-down occasionally. Cast iron on the other hand, although can look fantastic, does require waxing to protect from the rain. So, if low maintenance is a key factor for you, high quality cast aluminium could be right up your street! - Variety:
Cast aluminium furniture comes in a wide variety of styles, colours, sizes and forms, and can suit all tastes. The variety available is one of the major benefits of using this material. Do you like the cast-iron Victorian style but don’t want the hassle of maintaining it? Well, you can get this style in cast aluminium too. Like contemporary furniture to go with your ultra-modern garden space? Look no further cast aluminium can do that too! - Low Cost:
Cast aluminium is an extremely popular choice for garden furniture and does tend to be cheaper than purchasing traditional cast iron or wrought iron. This is due to the material being more readily available. Due to its popularity, there are loads of different styles of cast aluminium furniture on the market to suit all types of budgets. So, if you want cheap – no problem, but if you want to splash the cash – that’s no problem either!
How to clean and maintain aluminium garden furniture
You’ve chosen the perfect aluminium garden furniture, and it’s now sitting proudly in your outdoor space. In its shiny, new state, you’ll likely use it all the time. However, frequent use, combined with exposure to the elements, means dirt and grime will eventually build up. Regular cleaning not only keeps your furniture looking fresh but also extends its lifespan.
Here’s how to keep it can and in tip-top condition:
Remove surface dirt
For everyday grime, warm soapy water and a soft sponge work wonders. Simply use a mix of washing-up liquid with warm water, and wipe it down with a sponge, focusing on any grubby spots. Then, rinse with clean water to remove soap residue, which could otherwise stain or damage the surface. This method works for both powder-coated and uncoated aluminium.
Tackle tough stains
For stubborn marks like bird droppings or tree sap, soak the affected area with warm water to loosen debris. If stains persist, use vinegar or lemon juice. Apply sparingly using a spray bottle or damp cloth. Then, let it sit for a few minutes before gently scrubbing and rinsing. Avoid over-soaking the surface or leaving vinegar/lemon juice on for too long, as this could harm the metal.
Special care for uncoated furniture
Uncoated aluminium is more prone to corrosion, so it’s essential to avoid harsh chemicals. While powder-coated aluminium has a durable finish that offers extra protection, uncoated aluminium is more vulnerable to damage. Avoid using cleaning products containing ammonia, trisodium phosphate, or soda, as these can trigger oxidation and weaken the metal.
Regular maintenance
To maintain your aluminium garden furniture set, make sure to:
- Clean it at least four times a year, increasing to twice during summer when it’s used more often.
- Before storing or covering it at the end of summer, give it a thorough clean. Although aluminium doesn’t rust, a protective cover can shield it from weathering.
- Before the next season, wash it again to prepare it for use.
With regular care, your aluminium furniture will stay in excellent condition, ready to enjoy year after year.
Preventive Measures
After cleaning, consider applying a protective layer to enhance the shine and shield the surface from damage, such as car wax, baby oil, or silicone spray. Ensure the surface is completely dry before applying any products. These measures not only keep your furniture gleaming but also protect it from the elements.
What to avoid
To keep your aluminium furniture in prime condition, steer clear of these common mistakes:
Power washing – while tempting for a quick clean, power washers can damage aluminium surfaces. The high-pressure water can erode the metal, leaving it vulnerable to corrosion. Instead, stick to a soft sponge and bucket.
Using bleach – bleach can stain aluminium, dulling its shine and causing long-term wear. Even diluted bleach should be avoided, as residue can harm the surface over time.
Sharp or abrasive materials – never use scouring pads, steel wool, or sharp tools to clean aluminium. These can scratch the surface, exposing the bare metal to corrosion. If scratches do occur, promptly apply an aluminium polish to minimise damage and prevent further wear.
So, it’s worth giving cast aluminium a chance when you are making your next garden furniture purchase. Low cost, durable, and easy to maintain – it’s the perfect choice for people with busy lives. And with a huge variety of styles and colours now on the market, the perfect aluminium garden furniture for you is easier than ever to find. So, get hunting!