When selecting outdoor furniture, weight becomes a crucial factor for stability, durability, and practicality. Many homeowners wonder: is cast aluminum outdoor furniture heavier than wrought iron? The straightforward answer is no - wrought iron is significantly heavier than cast aluminum furniture.
Wrought iron, known for its substantial weight and density, provides excellent wind resistance but can be challenging to move. A standard wrought iron dining chair typically weighs between 25-35 pounds, while larger pieces can exceed 50 pounds. This substantial weight contributes to its renowned durability and stability in outdoor conditions.
In contrast, cast aluminum furniture offers remarkable lightness without compromising strength. A comparable cast aluminum chair generally weighs between 10-20 pounds, making it substantially easier to rearrange or store during inclement weather. Despite its lighter weight, high-quality cast aluminum maintains excellent stability through thoughtful engineering and design.
The weight difference stems from the materials' inherent properties. Wrought iron is solid metal throughout, while cast aluminum furniture often features hollow sections in its construction. This fundamental difference in material density and manufacturing techniques results in wrought iron being approximately 30-50% heavier than similar cast aluminum pieces.
When considering your outdoor furniture needs, the weight impacts several practical aspects. Heavier wrought iron provides superior wind resistance but requires more permanent placement. Lighter cast aluminum allows for flexible arrangement and easier seasonal storage while still offering sufficient stability for most environments. Both materials have their merits, with weight being just one factor in your decision-making process alongside durability, maintenance requirements, style preferences, and budget considerations.