Powder coated steel and aluminum are both popular materials for patio furniture, but they have some key differences that can make one a better choice for you depending on your needs and preferences.
In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between powder coated steel and aluminum patio furniture to help you make an informed decision.
Comparison Between Powder-Coated Steel vs Aluminum Patio Furniture
Here, we’ll compare powder-coated steel and aluminum patio furniture in terms of durability, maintenance, style, and cost.
Durability:
When it comes to durability, both powder coated steel and aluminum are fairly strong and resistant to wear and tear. However, powder coated steel is generally considered to be more durable than aluminum. It is more resistant to dents and scratches, and it can withstand higher temperatures without warping or melting. Powder coated steel is also less prone to rusting than bare steel, thanks to the protective coating.
Aluminum, on the other hand, is lightweight and resistant to rust, but it is not as strong as steel. It is more prone to dents and scratches, and it may not be suitable for areas with extreme weather conditions.
Maintenance:
In terms of maintenance, both powder coated steel and aluminum patio furniture require minimal care. Both materials can be easily cleaned with a mild detergent and water, and they can be left outside without worrying about rust or weather damage.
However, aluminum may require more frequent cleaning to maintain its shine and prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. Powder coated steel, on the other hand, is more resistant to dirt and grime and may not require as much cleaning.
Style:
When it comes to style, both powder coated steel and aluminum patio furniture have a modern and sleek look. Powder coated steel tends to have a more industrial look, while aluminum has a more refined and elegant look.
However, aluminum is more versatile in terms of style and can be easily incorporated into a variety of design schemes. It is also available in a wider range of colors and finishes, making it easier to match with your existing patio decor.
Cost:
Powder coated steel is generally more expensive than aluminum furniture due to its durability and low-maintenance requirements. Aluminum furniture is cheaper, but it may require more frequent cleaning and maintenance.
Pros and Cons of Powder-Coated Steel and Aluminum Patio Furniture
Here are some pros and cons of powder coated steel and aluminum patio furniture:
Pros of Powder coated steel:
- Durable and resistant to wear and tear
- Strong and able to withstand high temperatures
- Less prone to rusting than bare steel
- Low maintenance
Cons of Powder coated steel:
- May not be as stylish as aluminum
- Can be heavy and difficult to move
Pros of Aluminum:
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Rust-resistant
- Wide range of colors and finishes available
- Stylish and versatile
Cons of Aluminum:
- Not as strong as steel
- More prone to dents and scratches
- May require more frequent cleaning to maintain its shine
Overall, the best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a durable and low-maintenance option, powder coated steel may be the better choice. If you want a stylish and versatile material, aluminum may be the way to go.
Is Powder Coated Steel Good for Outdoors
Powder coated steel is a good choice for outdoor furniture because it is durable and resistant to wear and tear. The powder coating helps to protect the steel from weathering and rusting, making it a low-maintenance option for outdoor use. In addition, powder coated steel is strong and able to withstand high temperatures without warping or melting.
However, it is important to note that powder coated steel is not completely immune to rusting. If the coating is damaged, the steel underneath may be exposed to the elements and start to rust. To prevent rusting, it is important to keep your powder coated steel furniture clean and dry, and to touch up any chips or scratches in the coating as soon as possible.
Overall, powder coated steel is a good choice for outdoor furniture if you want a durable and low-maintenance option. Just be sure to take proper care of it to ensure it stays in good condition for as long as possible.
Does Aluminum Patio Furniture Rust?
Unlike steel, aluminum does not rust. Rust is a type of corrosion that occurs when iron or steel is exposed to water and oxygen, resulting in the formation of iron oxide (rust). Aluminum, on the other hand, is resistant to rust because it does not contain iron or steel.
However, aluminum can still be affected by other types of corrosion, such as pitting and oxidization. Pitting occurs when the surface of the aluminum is damaged and becomes exposed to water and oxygen, leading to the formation of small pits on the surface. Oxidization is a chemical reaction that occurs when aluminum is exposed to air, causing a thin layer of aluminum oxide to form on the surface.
Both pitting and oxidization can weaken the aluminum and make it more prone to damage. To prevent these types of corrosion, it is important to keep your aluminum patio furniture clean and dry, and to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials when cleaning it.
Overall, aluminum is a rust-resistant material that is well-suited for outdoor use. However, it is important to take proper care of your aluminum patio furniture to ensure it stays in good condition and lasts for as long as possible.
How to Keep Powder Coated Steel Furniture from Rusting?
There are several steps you can take to help prevent your powder coated steel furniture from rusting:
- Keep it clean: Dirt and grime can trap moisture against the surface of the steel, which can lead to rusting. To prevent this, make sure to keep your powder coated steel furniture clean and dry. Use a mild detergent and water to wipe it down, and be sure to dry it thoroughly.
- Protect it from the elements: Exposure to rain, snow, and other forms of moisture can increase the risk of rusting. To protect your powder coated steel furniture from the elements, consider storing it in a shed or garage when not in use. You can also use a patio furniture cover to help keep it dry.
- Touch up any chips or scratches: If the powder coating on your steel furniture becomes chipped or scratched, the exposed steel underneath may be vulnerable to rusting. To prevent this, touch up any chips or scratches as soon as possible.
- Use rust inhibitors: There are products available that can help prevent rust from forming on your powder coated steel furniture. These rust inhibitors work by creating a barrier between the steel and the elements, helping to protect it from rust.
- Avoid acidic substances: Certain substances, such as acidic cleaning products or fertilizers, can weaken the powder coating and increase the risk of rusting. To help prevent this, be sure to keep these types of substances away from your powder coated steel furniture.
By following these steps, you can help to keep your powder coated steel furniture looking great and rust-free for as long as possible.
Final Words
Overall, both powder-coated steel and aluminum patio furniture have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Powder coated steel is more durable and resistant to wear and tear, but it may not be as stylish as aluminum. Aluminum is more stylish and versatile, but it may not be as durable as steel.
In terms of cost, powder coated steel is more expensive than aluminum, but it is worth the investment due to its durability and low-maintenance requirements. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs.