Metal garden furniture has become an increasingly popular addition to our British gardens. With its range of styles and fantastic durability, it’s no wonder people are choosing metal as the material of choice for their garden attire.
Where does metal garden furniture originate from?
You may be surprised to hear that it’s not a new thing. It has been around since the Victorian times and coincides with the formation of public parks. During this time it was not uncommon to find stylish iron benches to rest your weary legs, or sit and watch the world go by. This trend was carried through to Victorian homes, where you would often find patios and gardens adorned with iron tables and chairs. One problem at the time was that this furniture was susceptible to rust due to the lack of an adequate protective coating, so would often deteriorate in a relatively short space of time. Those poor Victorians must have spent a fortune! Luckily for us, it’s far more durable than it used to be and can now be found in a variety of metals.
Metal garden furniture materials
So what materials are used nowadays? It is now very common to find wrought iron, cast aluminium and stainless steel used in outdoor furniture. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Wrought iron is the traditional Victorian style. If you want the vintage, classical look it can be the perfect choice for your garden. It’s worth mentioning that these days you can also find modern, contemporary furniture made with wrought iron, so it really can suit most garden styles. Be careful where you place wrought-iron furniture though, as it can be really heavy. Your patio or deck will be fine, but it can do some serious damage to your lawn. Rust can also be a problem, so as soon as you see any cracks appearing in the protective finish you will need to touch it up with some paint.
Cast aluminium is a great option for your garden furniture and is now a bigger seller than wrought-iron furniture. It is considerably lighter than wrought iron, so can be placed anywhere without damaging your garden. It also has the added benefit of being rust resistant and requires hardly any maintenance to keep it looking in perfect shape for years to come.
Stainless steel garden furniture is not as popular as wrought-iron or cast aluminium, but is on the increase and can often be found in combination with wood or rattan. It is most widely used for modern, contemporary furniture, due to it being clean, bright and shiny. You’ll most likely see bistro sets in metal. Unlike wrought iron and cast aluminium, it requires no protective coating whatsoever. It is also completely mould and rust resistant.
The benefits of metal garden furniture
Metal garden furniture has several advantages that make it a popular choice for outdoor spaces. Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits:
1. Durability
Metal garden furniture is weather resistant. This is especially the case when treated or coated. As such, it can withstand various weather conditions, including rain, sun, and wind, making it ideal for outdoor use. It also means it will last much longer. Materials like wrought iron, aluminium, and stainless steel are known for their long-lasting qualities.
2. Strength and Stability
Metal furniture is generally stronger than alternatives like wood or plastic, capable of supporting more weight without warping or breaking. The heavier metal furniture (like wrought iron) is, the less likely it will tip over in strong winds, providing added stability.
3. Low Maintenance
Metal furniture typically requires minimal effort to clean—usually just a wipe-down with a damp cloth or mild soap. Many modern metal pieces are also coated with anti-rust finishes, reducing maintenance requirements further.
4. Aesthetic Appeal
Metal can be molded into intricate patterns or sleek, modern designs, fitting a wide range of styles. The powder coating also allows for vibrant and long-lasting colour options.
5. Lightweight Options
Aluminium furniture, for example, is lightweight and easy to move, which is perfect for rearranging or storage.
6. Eco-Friendly
Metal furniture is often recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
7. Customisation
Metal furniture pairs well with other materials, like wood or glass, allowing for creative customisation of outdoor spaces.
8. Cost-Effectiveness
While the initial cost might be higher than some materials, its durability and low maintenance often result in long-term savings.
The different materials available all have their benefits and their drawbacks. What is right for you and your garden will depend on your taste, your garden style, and your budget. But one thing’s for sure, we’ve never had a better time for metal garden furniture sets. With a range of garden furniture sets available, you can be sure to find the perfect choice to match your garden’s personality.