Why Choose Aluminium Outdoor Furniture? Benefits and Care Guide

Published on Updated on PRODUCT STORIES by Stephen Wu

 

 

Close up of Remarkable Outdoor Living's Alora Lounge

Close up of Remarkable Outdoor Living's Ottawa Lounge

Aluminium is lightweight, rust-resistant, and as durable as it gets. There are many reasons why outdoor aluminium furniture is so popular throughout Australia's homes. In fact, this oh-so-versatile material is at the top of the list for people yearning for an industrial yet sleek and minimalistic design — a trend that's set to remain throughout the 2020s. 

But is it your garden's next best friend? Probably. In this article, we’ll make sure you understand everything you need to know before diving headfirst into your purchase. 

“Aluminium is extremely lightweight and is naturally corrosion resistant, which helps maintain its structure and increase the lifespan.”

Characteristics and Benefits of Aluminium

Benefits

Descriptions

Reasons

UV & Fade Resistant

Aluminium furniture resists UV rays, preventing colour fading and deterioration.

This exceptional UV resistance is attributed to the inherent protective oxide layer that forms on the material's surface, preventing against UV damage.

Lightweight

Aluminium furniture is lightweight and easy to move around.

With only 1/3 the density of steel. Despite its low weight aluminium still maintains it’s strength.

Durable

A hallmark of aluminium furniture lies in its remarkable durability, underscored by its inherent resistance to corrosion and rusting.

This commendable resistance to environmental corrosion is underpinned by the spontaneous formation of a protective oxide layer upon exposure to oxygen, bolstering its longevity and integrity.

Moisture Resistance

Aluminium furniture, marked by its exceptional moisture resistance, remains impervious to the detrimental effects of humidity and dampness.

This imperviousness to moisture-induced degradation can be attributed to the material's inherent resistance to oxidation, precluding the onset of rust and structural compromise.

Low Maintenance

The unparalleled low-maintenance aspect of aluminium furniture is rooted in its innate resistance to corrosive processes, translating to a diminished need for arduous upkeep.

The corrosion resistance is a direct consequence of the robust oxide layer's capacity to shield the underlying metal from reactive agents, thereby alleviating maintenance demands.

Environmental Prudence

The environmental cognisance of aluminium as a material lies in its recyclability and reduced ecological footprint, fostering a sustainable choice for outdoor furnishings.

The material's recyclability stems from its capacity to be reclaimed and reprocessed with significantly lower energy inputs compared to initial extraction, underscoring its eco-friendly attributes.


Both cast aluminium outdoor furniture and standard (a.k.a. extruded) aluminium furniture is durable, weather-resistant (sun, rain, wind, whatever Mother Nature throws at it), long-lasting, and low-maintenance.

Not to mention it's as close to self-healing as any substance can get. Superficial scratches are quickly camouflaged, thanks to the oxide layer that keeps rust from ruining the structural integrity or aesthetic. Provided it's not too deep, the damage is hidden.

The major difference, however, lies in the weight — the former is much heavier than the latter. And this is due to how it's made. 

Cast aluminium outdoor furniture is made by heating then shaping using a mould. Extruded aluminium garden furniture, on the other hand, is heated until it's soft and then forced through a die or shaped hole. The result? A square or round hollow tube that can be cut and assembled. 

 The latter is wonderfully versatile, allowing manufacturers like us at Remarkable to craft varied designs to bring a breath of fresh air to any outside space . Just a brief peruse through our aluminium outdoor chairs is enough to show you the true artistic range this metal boasts. 

Your aluminium outdoor setting will stand the gruelling test of time, resisting UV rays, fading, and moisture damage as it goes. No matter how unpredictable the weather might be, you don't have to worry about arduous maintenance practices or rushing out to buy new furniture every time the summer season comes along. It certainly isn't just a fair-weather friend. 

Design and Style Options

Aluminium furniture oozes modernity and sleekness from every swoop and vertex. The crisp lines, unblemished surfaces, and minimalist attractiveness integrates with contemporary styles effortlessly for a polished, stylish look.

Despite the evident modern appeal, its versatility extends beyond trend lovers, complementing a variety of garden looks, especially traditional ones. Thanks to its timeless, neutral appearance, an aluminium outdoor dining setting blends perfectly with eclectic elements.  

Whether you like outside furniture that's sleek and modern or you're more of a traditional aesthetic fan, you can find the aluminium outdoor setting for you.

 

Integration with Outdoor Living Spaces 

From patios to walled gardens to decked areas, aluminium furniture enhances the functionality of your outside space without compromising on style. And without increasing your already-lengthy to-do list, due to its low-maintenance, corrosion-resistant qualities.

Buying an aluminium dining set, for example, is more than having an ergonomic place to sit and eat. It's loving your garden. It's inviting your family for a barbecue and the myriads of, "Wow! Where did you get this?" It's coming home after a long day and taking five minutes to enjoy the paradise you've crafted. 

Explore the collection to realise just how harmoniously our pieces settle into any space with their clean lines, flawless finishes, durable builds.

 

 

Care Instructions

Yes, aluminium garden furniture is low maintenance, but it certainly isn't no maintenance. In a perfect world, it would be, but alas, all outdoor items require some degree of TLC. We have created a detailed care guide for you to make sure you know how to make your aluminium pieces last a lifetime.

Since there are a few important things to remember when cleaning, stain-removing, and storing aluminium pieces, we'll go over it here. Consider it your short yet in-depth checklist. 

 

Aluminium Outdoor Furniture Care Instructions Infographic - Tips for Maintenance and Longevity
“Our infographic provides easy-to-follow care instructions for preserving the beauty and functionality of your aluminium outdoor pieces.”

 

Regular Cleaning

While you might be tempted to go all-out with abrasive and solvent-based cleaners, pressure washers, steel wool, or scoring pads on your aluminium outdoor tables, resist the temptation — it will only scratch the surface and damage the finish. 

Instead, choose gentle, home-mixed solutions and soft cloths for regular cleaning.

Follow these steps:

  1. Take off the cushions and any throw pillows. 
  2. Mix one-gallon warm water with ¼ cup mild liquid soap. 
  3. Clean the surface with a lint-free, clean, soft cloth. 
  4. Rinse thoroughly with cold water. 
  5. Let it air-dry.
  6. Replace the cushions or cover.  

Removing Stains

Even with your best intentions, stains can occur. When they do, regular cleaning might not cut it. Try this instead: 

  1. Mix a solution of one-gallon warm water and ¼ mild dish soap. 
  2. Use a soft sponge or brush to scrub the stained area. 
  3. Rinse well with water. 
  4. Dry with a soft towel. 

Scratch Protecting 

Superficial scratches aren't an issue for aluminium furniture. The coating tends to camouflage them. But the deeper they are, the harder they are to conceal.

So, you should opt for prevention over repairs. Luckily scratch protection is easy. 

We recommend using tablecloths, coasters, and placemats to stop scratches from utensils, plates, and glasses, while always avoiding dragging hard, heavy objects across the surface. 

Sunlight and Storage 

As we said earlier, aluminium furniture is resistant to UV rays. But that doesn't mean it's happy to sit in direct sunlight for prolonged periods.

There's no need to put a cover over it every time you aren't using it. However, it's worth using a patio umbrella, outdoor shade, or awning to keep your latest addition safe from the glaring sun. 

Speaking of covers, they are a good idea if it won't be used for a while. Weather-resistant protectors provide safety from dirt, grime, and other outdoor unpleasantries. 

Such covers won't be enough if you're in an area with harsh winters or extended periods of less-than-sunny conditions. We recommend keeping your pieces indoors or in an outbuilding to shield it from inclement weather. Just ensure it's clean and dry before storing to prevent mould and mildew. 

Inspecting and Tightening

Last but certainly not least in the TLC department is inspecting and tightening — a crucial part of the aluminium garden furniture care procedure. 

Regularly check your pieces for loose bolts of screws. If you find any, tighten them. This simple (yet often overlooked) act is all it needs to maintain structural integrity for years to come.

Metal accessories can still grow rusty over time, so apply a rust preventative or inhibitor to them from time to time to reduce this likelihood.

 

You’re Now an Aluminium Garden Furniture Expert! 

Aluminium garden furniture could be the missing piece to your outdoor space's puzzle.

Remarkable Outdoor Living's rust-resistant, durable, and low-maintenance aluminium furniture fit seamlessly into any design aesthetic, thanks to its undeniable versatility. Couple that with the fact it's easy to care for and it's no wonder it's the go-to option among shoppers!

Experience the magic of our aluminium outdoor lounges & aluminium sofa or other pieces at our showroom or see our furniture in action on our website. 

  

Reference

 

FAQ

  1. How long does aluminium furniture last?
    • Aluminium furniture boasts exceptional durability, often lasting for decades with proper care. Its resistance to rust and corrosion contributes to its impressive lifespan.
    1. Is aluminium a good choice for outdoor furniture?
      • Absolutely, aluminium is an excellent choice for outdoor furniture. Its inherent weather resistance, lightweight design, and versatility make it a popular option for creating stylish and durable outdoor spaces.
      1. Can I leave my aluminium furniture in the rain / sun?
        • Yes, aluminium furniture is designed to withstand exposure to both rain and sun. Its natural resistance to corrosion makes it a reliable choice for outdoor settings, but regular cleaning and maintenance can further enhance its longevity.
        1. Does aluminium furniture rust?
          • No, aluminium furniture is resistant to rust due to its non-corrosive nature. This makes it a suitable choice for outdoor use, even in humid or wet environments.
          1. Why is aluminium furniture so expensive?
            • The cost of aluminium furniture can be attributed to its exceptional qualities. Aluminium is lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust, which adds to its value. Additionally, the intricate manufacturing processes and modern designs contribute to the overall pricing.

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            A hand holds a bottle of Magic Stain Remover in front of an Alora 3-seater lounge on a wooden deck, with a charcoal round table adorned with a plant and decorative pieces.
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