When selecting furniture for urban outdoor spaces like patios, rooftops, or public plazas, durability and stability are paramount. A common question arises: Is cast aluminum urban outdoor furniture heavier and more durable than regular aluminum (typically referring to tubular or wrought aluminum)? The answer is a definitive yes, and here’s why.
Weight and Construction: The Core Difference
Cast aluminum furniture is made by pouring molten aluminum into molds. This process allows for intricate, solid designs that result in substantially heavier pieces. This inherent weight provides excellent stability against wind, making it ideal for exposed urban environments. Regular aluminum furniture, often made from hollow extruded tubes or sheets, is lightweight and easier to move but can be prone to tipping in strong gusts.
Durability and Longevity
The casting process creates thick, solid sections of metal that are highly resistant to bending, denting, and impact. Cast aluminum can withstand the rigors of high-traffic public or commercial use. While both types are rust-resistant, the thicker material in cast aluminum generally offers greater long-term structural integrity. Regular aluminum is durable but its thinner, hollow construction can be more vulnerable to damage from heavy impacts.
Maintenance and Style
Both materials require minimal maintenance, typically needing just occasional cleaning. Cast aluminum often features classic, ornate designs reminiscent of wrought iron but without the rust. Regular aluminum tends toward sleek, modern lines. For permanent urban installations where style, weight, and supreme durability are priorities, cast aluminum is the superior choice. For residential settings where portability is key, regular aluminum remains a popular option.
In conclusion, for urban outdoor furniture that demands resilience against weather and use, cast aluminum’s extra weight and solid construction translate directly into enhanced durability and stability, making it a robust, long-term investment.