Both aluminum and cast aluminum are popular materials for outdoor furniture, but they each have distinct advantages and some downsides. Let’s break them down to help you determine which might be better for your needs.
Pros:
Lightweight: Aluminum is a lightweight material, making it easy to move around. This can be especially useful for furniture that needs to be repositioned often.
Corrosion-resistant: Pure aluminum is naturally resistant to corrosion due to the formation of an oxide layer on its surface. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor furniture exposed to moisture, rain, and humidity.
Durability: While it may not be as strong as cast aluminum, it still offers good durability and will last a long time if cared for properly.
Cost-effective: Aluminum furniture tends to be less expensive than cast aluminum, making it an affordable option for many homeowners.
Versatility in Design: Aluminum can be molded and shaped into various designs, making it suitable for a wide range of furniture styles.
Cons:
Less Strength: Standard aluminum is not as strong as cast aluminum, so while it’s durable, it may not have the same heavy-duty strength, especially for larger or more intricate furniture pieces.
Prone to Dents and Scratches: Aluminum can be more susceptible to dents and scratches compared to cast aluminum.
Pros:
Strength and Durability: Cast aluminum is made by pouring molten aluminum into molds, resulting in a material that is denser, stronger, and more durable than regular aluminum. This makes it suitable for larger or more substantial furniture pieces.
Corrosion-Resistant: Like regular aluminum, cast aluminum is resistant to corrosion and rust, which makes it ideal for outdoor use.
Aesthetic Appeal: Cast aluminum allows for more intricate, detailed designs and finishes. It often has a more ornate, high-end look due to the casting process, which can elevate the appearance of your outdoor space.
Heavier and More Stable: Due to its density, cast aluminum is heavier, which can be a plus in windy conditions as it won’t blow over as easily.
Cons:
Heavier: The added weight that makes cast aluminum stable can also make it less portable. Moving cast aluminum furniture around can be more challenging than lighter aluminum pieces.
More Expensive: Due to the more complex manufacturing process and superior strength, cast aluminum tends to be more expensive than regular aluminum.
Potential for Cracking: Although very durable, cast aluminum can crack or break under extreme pressure or impact due to its rigid nature.
For portability and affordability, regular aluminum might be a better choice. It’s lighter, more cost-effective, and offers good resistance to the elements.
For strength, elegance, and more intricate designs, cast aluminum is likely the better option. Its added weight and durability make it ideal for large, high-end furniture pieces that will remain in one place and withstand harsh weather.
If you're looking for lightweight, budget-friendly outdoor furniture that you can easily move around, aluminum would be a good choice. However, if you prefer sturdy, heavy-duty furniture with a more refined, elegant design, cast aluminum may be the better option.
