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Metal Patio Furniture Buying Guide: 4 Important Things to Consider
Patio furniture has to be more than just aesthetically pleasing. It also has to be comfortable, durable and able to withstand harsh elements like direct UV rays and rainstorms. And, most importantly of all, it needs to be functional. With all of these "musts" in mind, it's easy to see why metal furniture is so popular. It's enduring, classic, and suits every decorating taste. At Pottery Barn, you'll find a wide range of metal furniture to complete any outdoor entertaining space. To help you find the right pieces for your deck, patio or backyard, we've put together this buying guide. Here are a few things to look for as you browse our collection of metal patio furniture.
Metals
The most common metals used in the construction of outdoor furniture are aluminum, steel and wrought iron. The right metal for your outdoor living space will depend on a number of factors, including the climate you live in, how much sun exposure your backyard or patio receives, your taste, and how you plan to use the furniture. Aluminum is the lightest of the three materials, making it ideal for chairs and other pieces of furniture that will be moved around frequently. For furniture pieces that require more stability, or in climates where strong gusts of wind are common, a heavier metal like wrought iron may be a better choice. Steel is the most durable - and expensive - of the three materials. It is also the heaviest, so it isn't suitable for dining chairs, accent tables and other small pieces of furniture that are designed to be moved around.
Finishes
Metal patio furniture comes in a variety of finishes to suit any decorating style. Choose from classic finishes like gold, silver, antique pewter and aged bronze, or go for a more contemporary look with painted metal. When choosing a finish, consider how much maintenance it requires and how well it will withstand harsh weather conditions. You'll also want to take the style of your other patio furniture and accents into account. Furniture with an aged bronze finish, for example, would look gorgeous on a patio alongside rustic accents like wrought-iron lanterns.
Materials
The material of your seating is just as important as the frame when it comes to outdoor furniture. You'll want to ensure the seats are made from a material that is durable, weather-resistant, breathable and fast-drying. Canvas, nylon and polyester are all good choices that are mould-, UV- and water-resistant. Another popular option is PVC wicker, which simply needs to be hosed off occasionally.
Maintenance
Most metals used in the construction of patio furniture, including aluminum and stainless steel require little to no seasonal maintenance. All that's needed to keep them looking new is occasional cleaning with water and mild soap. The exception to this is painted wrought iron, which tends to crack and peel. This type of metal patio furniture needs to be refinished and resealed seasonally to prevent mold and rust from forming.
Enjoy years of outdoor entertaining with durable and easy-to-maintain metal outdoor furniture. With an abundance of styles, finishes and seating materials to choose from, you're sure to find just the right pieces in our collection to complement your patio, deck or garden.