Retire Your Old Plastic Patio Furniture: The Long-Lasting Material For Sun And Heat

Plastic patio furniture might seem like an obvious pick. It's typically affordable, easy to move, and comes in a rainbow of colors. Many kinds of plastic can also handle snow and cold weather. However, if plastic furniture is left outside for months on end, the color fades and the material becomes brittle. This doesn't just look bad; it can also be a safety hazard when a chair leg finally snaps. sometimes you need to go the opposite direction to stand up to high heat and sun. If you're looking to replace your old plastic furniture that falls apart under constant UV exposure in just a couple of years, you may want to turn to a surprising material: powder-coated aluminum.

Some uncoated metal materials can burn skin after sitting in the sun, making them unpleasant unless you follow all the useful tips to prevent metal patio furniture from getting too hot. However, powder-coated aluminum is durable in the heat without becoming painful to touch, even when it's placed in direct sunlight. In fact, powder-coated aluminum generally doesn't feel any hotter than plastic resin furniture of the same color. The coating also prevents corrosion and chips, so you can use it for years. Despite being lighter and thinner than alternative metals, aluminum is still durable and can stand up to most antics from kids, pets, and party guests. It's also able to handle the cold, unlike steel and iron, two types of outdoor furniture that won't survive winter weather.

Powder-coated aluminum isn't always the cheapest choice. Synthetic wicker and powder-coated steel are generally cheaper. It can be worth it, though, as it tends to have a lifespan twice as long as lower-cost options, possibly even a couple decades. Aluminum's lightweight nature can be an advantage when moving or rearranging your outdoor space. However, if you live somewhere with regular high winds, you may need to find a way to weigh it down during stormy seasons. Keep in mind that powder-coated furniture can still transfer some heat. Choosing light-colored coatings, like white, can help keep your pieces from feeling too warm or uncomfortable. You can also cover contact points like chair seats with cushions.

While powder-coated aluminum furniture is a great choice for those who live in hot and sunny areas, it does need a little extra attention when it comes to maintenance and care. It's pretty easy to clean your metal outdoor furniture, but with powder-coated styles, you must make sure they don't get damaged. Any chips or scratches can lead to corrosion, which starts to deteriorate your furniture. This starts with avoiding harsh or abrasive cleaning chemicals. You don't want to use anything that can potentially scratch the surface. Instead, stick to soap, water, and a soft sponge. Mild pressure washing can also help to get some particularly difficult spots off, without causing a lot of damage to your frame.