Aluminum Furniture Care and Maintenance

For outdoor furniture that is virtually care free, aluminum furniture is a great option. As aluminum is one of the most versatile metals in existence, it provides a material for furniture that is as durable as it is convenient. For instance, it is common knowledge that aluminum will not rust, since it develops a protective microscopic layer of oxide on its exterior when exposed to the air; this oxide will protect the metal from rusting and corrosion. And since aluminum outdoor furniture will endure practically any kind of inclement weather, it is not necessary to cover it when it rains.

Types of Aluminum Outdoor Furniture

Aluminum patio furniture is available in a few distinct forms: wrought aluminum furniture, tubular aluminum furniture, and cast aluminum furniture.

Wrought aluminum furniture is typically Victorian in style. It is lightweight, and its finish is relatively rust-free compared to wrought iron material. Tubular aluminum furniture is the lightest type, and it is very easy to shape and design. Unlike wrought and tubular kinds, cast aluminum furniture is solid, and therefore heavier than the others. Since cast aluminum is pure and tough, it is probably the most popular type of aluminum outdoor furniture.

How to Care for Aluminum Outdoor Furniture

Aluminum furniture may not rust, but it does oxidize, and so care must be taken to prevent discoloration and exterior roughness. Although maintaining aluminum outdoor furniture is nearly effortless, there are a few tips to keep in mind when cleaning outdoor furniture:

• When furniture starts to become discolored, wash it with soap, water, and some kind of household acid like lemon/lime juice or vinegar. Do not use ammonia, Soda, or TSP. It’s a good idea to do this cleaning after the end of each season.

• If you notice that your furniture is getting rough or has become pitted, you can polish the surface with steel wool filled with soap. This will smoothen the metal and prevent further pitting.

• Auto wax or silicon spray can also be used to protect the furniture from corrosion or pitting

• Commercial cleaners of all kinds are available for particularly dirty furniture, but these should never be used for anodized aluminum. If your outdoor living furniture is made with colored anodized aluminum, be extra careful to only use mild detergent and water to clean it.