When selecting furniture for patios, gardens, or urban outdoor spaces, weight is a crucial practical factor. Polyethylene (PE) outdoor furniture, particularly high-density polyethylene (HDPE) rattan, is significantly lighter than traditional wrought iron furniture. A typical polyethylene chair may weigh 8-15 pounds (3.5-7 kg), making it easy to move and rearrange. In stark contrast, a comparable wrought iron chair can weigh 25-45 pounds (11-20 kg) or more, offering substantial heft and resistance to wind but posing challenges for mobility.
This weight disparity stems from the core materials. Polyethylene is a synthetic polymer, allowing for hollow or thin-walled, robust designs that reduce mass. Wrought iron is solid, dense metal. The lighter weight of polyethylene furniture simplifies seasonal storage, cleaning, and layout changes. However, wrought iron's mass provides unparalleled stability in windy conditions, a traditional aesthetic, and often a perception of greater durability against forceful impacts.
Ultimately, the choice involves a trade-off. Polyethylene offers modern, low-maintenance, and portable solutions ideal for balconies or frequently reconfigured spaces. Wrought iron delivers a classic, permanent, and sturdy presence, best for fixed installations where immovability is a virtue. Consider your needs for flexibility, wind exposure, and installation permanence when deciding between the lightweight advantage of polyethylene and the solid anchor of wrought iron.