Metal is a popular choice for urban outdoor furniture due to its durability and modern aesthetic. However, a common concern is how it holds up under the intense, direct sunlight of summer. The short answer is yes, metal furniture can get extremely hot to the touch when exposed to the summer sun for prolonged periods.
The science is straightforward: metals are excellent conductors of heat. When solar radiation hits a metal surface, the material absorbs the energy efficiently and its temperature rises rapidly. Dark-colored metals, like black or charcoal finishes, absorb even more heat than lighter, reflective finishes. On a clear, hot summer day, the surface temperature of a metal bench or table can easily exceed 150°F (65°C), a temperature that can cause pain or even first-degree burns upon contact within seconds.
This poses a significant safety and comfort issue in public spaces like parks, plazas, and bus stops. The risk is particularly high for children, the elderly, and pets. To mitigate this, designers and urban planners employ several strategies. Choosing metals with lighter, powder-coated finishes can help reflect some sunlight. More effective solutions involve strategic placement in shaded areas, using permeable designs with gaps that allow heat to dissipate and reduce surface contact, or incorporating materials like wood or composite slats into the metal frame for the seating surface.
Alternatives like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, concrete, or specially treated wood often remain cooler to the touch, though they may have different maintenance or durability profiles. For existing hot metal furniture, simple interventions like adding cushions, umbrellas, or shade sails can make them usable during peak heat hours.
In conclusion, while metal urban furniture is robust, its heat retention in direct summer sun is a major drawback. Informed material selection, thoughtful design, and strategic shading are essential to ensure public outdoor spaces are safe, comfortable, and accessible throughout the entire season.