What is aluminium? Everything about aluminium garden furniture
Aluminium is by far the most commonly used material for premium garden furniture. From lounge sets to floating parasols and garden tables: aluminium frames are everywhere. But what makes this material so special for outdoor use? In this article you'll find out everything about the properties, advantages and disadvantages, and maintenance of aluminium garden furniture.
What exactly is aluminium?
Aluminium is a light, silvery metal that is abundant in the Earth's crust. In its pure form it is too soft for construction purposes, but when combined with small quantities of other metals (such as magnesium, silicon or zinc) it creates strong aluminium alloys that are perfectly suited for furniture.
For garden furniture, primarily the 6000-series alloy (aluminium-magnesium-silicon) is used. This combination offers an excellent balance between strength, weight and corrosion resistance.
Why is aluminium so popular for garden furniture?
1. Rust-free
This is aluminium's greatest strength: it doesn't rust. Aluminium forms a thin oxide layer when it comes into contact with oxygen, which protects the material. Unlike iron or steel, aluminium never needs to be primed or painted to prevent rust.
2. Extremely light
Aluminium weighs only a third of steel. A typical aluminium garden chair weighs 3–5 kg, while a comparable steel chair weighs 8–12 kg. This makes aluminium furniture easy to move and tilt.
3. Strong
Despite its low weight, aluminium is surprisingly strong. High-quality furniture features thick-walled tubes (2–3 mm wall thickness) that can handle heavy loads without deforming.
4. Maintenance-free
Aluminium garden furniture requires virtually no maintenance. Unlike teak wood, you don't need to oil, sand or treat it. An occasional rinse with water is all that's needed.
5. Durable and recyclable
Aluminium is 100% recyclable without loss of quality. The recycling process uses only 5% of the energy needed for primary production. Many manufacturers already use 30–70% recycled aluminium in their products.
What is powder coating?
Most aluminium garden furniture is fitted with a powder coating — a dry paint layer applied via an electrostatic process and then hardened in an oven. Powder coating provides:
- Extra protection against scratches and wear
- Colour variety: from classic anthracite to taupe, carbon black, white and more
- UV resistance: the colour doesn't fade in sunlight
- Smooth, easy-to-clean surface
A quality powder coating (minimum 60–80 micron thickness) lasts for decades without chipping or fading.
Cast aluminium vs extruded aluminium
Extruded aluminium
In extrusion, liquid aluminium is forced through a die to create profiles (tubes, rods). This is the most common manufacturing process for garden furniture. Extruded aluminium is light and strong.
Cast aluminium
Cast aluminium is poured into a mould to create complex shapes. This process is used for decorative parts and table tops with intricate patterns. Cast aluminium is heavier but has more beautiful forms.
Premium furniture often combines an extruded frame with cast parts for the combination of strength and aesthetics.
Aluminium in combination with other materials
Aluminium is rarely used alone in garden furniture:
- Aluminium + rope: Modern, clean design. The aluminium frame supports the rope covering. Extremely popular in premium lounge sets.
- Aluminium + wicker (PE-rattan): Classic combination. Wicker is woven around an aluminium frame.
- Aluminium + ceramic: Aluminium frame with ceramic table top. Maintenance-free and scratch-resistant.
- Aluminium + textiles: Aluminium frame with textile covering. Popular for garden chairs and sun loungers.
Maintenance of aluminium garden furniture
Aluminium garden furniture is virtually maintenance-free, but a little care significantly extends its lifespan:
- Clean annually with lukewarm water and a mild soap solution
- Always rinse off salt water (coastal or pool) immediately
- Treat small scratches in the powder coating with touch-up paint to prevent oxidation
- Store cushions indoors in winter; the aluminium frame can remain outside
Read more in our article maintaining aluminium garden furniture.
Frequently asked questions about aluminium garden furniture
Can aluminium rust?
No, aluminium doesn't rust. It can oxidise (a dull, white coating), but this doesn't damage the material itself and is easy to remove.
Can aluminium remain outside in winter?
Yes, aluminium is completely winter-resistant. Do cover it with a furniture cover to prevent dirt and damage from freezing water in the joints.
Is aluminium better than steel for garden furniture?
For most applications, yes: aluminium is lighter, rust-free and equally strong. Steel is cheaper but requires more maintenance and will rust if the coating is damaged.
Conclusion
Aluminium is the ideal choice for garden furniture: rust-free, light, strong and virtually maintenance-free. The combination of extruded aluminium frame with powder coating makes the material resistant to all weather conditions. View our selection of aluminium lounge sets and aluminium garden sets.
