subject: Aluminum Outdoor Furniture - The Most Popular Choice For Patio Applications [print this page] Aluminum Outdoor Furniture - The Most Popular Choice For Patio Applications
Aluminum outdoor furniture is the most popular choice for patio applications because it is durability, rust resistance and manageable weight. Not all aluminum furniture, however, is created equal. Aluminum patio furniture is mainly manufactured in two types includes tubular aluminum and cast aluminum.
While either form will work well enough for outdoor applications, it is important to understand the difference between the two. Cast aluminum is a solid product. The moltenmetal is actually poured into a pre-made mould and after cooling. The resulting product is a completely solid furniture piece.
Because it is solid throughout, cast aluminum patio furniture will look heavier than aluminum tubular products. In addition, because this process of manufacturing, design possibilities are almost endless. Many pieces of these furniture is quite intricately designed with ornate scrollwork and curves. On the other hand, tubular aluminum furniture is crafted from hollow "tube" of aluminum that are bent into place.
Properly manufactured tubular aluminum will still produce a strong and durable product. In general, however, tubular aluminum is inferior to cast aluminum in design options, weight and strength. All metal furniture is only as good as the welds that hold it together. Search for items that are welded 3600 around each joint.
With all of the good properties, aluminum continues to be the top material choice of architects, designers and homeowners for patio furnishing. So long as the furniture manufactured by a reputable company, either from of aluminum outdoor furniture will stand the test of time in the oudoor elements.