Aluminum Outdoor Furniture Maintenance Tips
Outdoor aluminum furniture such as aluminum chairs and tables are the ideal choice for gardens and patio decks because they are durable, rust-free, and lightweight. Outdoor aluminum furniture comes in three types – tubular aluminum, wrought aluminum and cast aluminum – and each one has a different look and feel. However, no matter what type of aluminum furniture you have, there are certain maintenance tips to make sure your outdoor aluminum furniture stays in good condition for years.
First, remove any cushions from the outdoor furniture, and then clean the aluminum structure with an all-purpose cleaner. Use a sponge or a soft cloth to apply the cleaner, and make sure it is water-based and bleach-free, as bleach can cause discoloration of your aluminum furniture. Hose down with water and let it dry in the sun for two hours.
For furniture made of wrought aluminum, you can use a mixture of soap dish, water and a little lime juice to clean it, and use a steel wool to remove any dirt stuck in the sidings. Again, hose down and dry with water. You can also apply a thin coating of auto wax to your aluminum furniture to protect it from outside elements and to prevent pitting or corrosion.
Finally, never use commercial cleaners on anodized aluminum. Typically, commercial cleaners contain industrial chemicals that can damage anodized aluminum. To clean it, use diluted dish soap instead. Touch-up paint can also be used to restore the blemishes on your outdoor aluminum furniture.
No matter what type of aluminum furniture you own, it is important to remember to maintain it throughout the year to prolong its life. To protect it from the searing heat of the sun, try to place your furniture in shaded or partially shaded areas. Additionally, hand wash the cushions and use a non-abrasive cleaner to buff down the aluminum furniture, and regularly apply all-purpose cleaner or diluted dish soap to maximize its life. With proper maintenance, your outdoor aluminum furniture will remain looking as good as new.
