Wood Vs. Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture: What's the Best Buy

Being informed is the best way to make a decision that you will be happy with in the long run, and a patio furniture purchase is no different. Before diving into the pool of options, styles and price ranges, know what you are getting when you spend all that money. Here's a look at the pros and cons of owning cast aluminum patio furniture and wood patio furniture.

Pros of Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture:
Cast aluminum patio furniture is a versatile option with many benefits. Some of these include:

Inexpensive- The most abundant metal found in the earth's crust, aluminum is widely available. This means it's super cheap to get and inexpensive to buy. Whether you are purchasing a full set of cast aluminum patio furniture that will run you several thousand dollars or a simple accent piece, the savings are sure to be appreciated.

Malleable- Aluminum is also easy to work with, so manufacturers can make a variety of styles and designs. Because this material is easy to work with, the price of labor is less, further discounting the finished products that you will be looking at (and possibly bringing home).

Durability- Aluminum has the best weight to strength ratio of all metals or patio furniture for that matter. What this means in simple terms is that your cast aluminum patio furniture will be lightweight and easy to move around despite the fact that it is solidly durable and reliable.

Resilience- Aluminum has a unique chemical reaction that is incredibly beneficial to furniture, especially pieces meant for outdoor usage. The process is called aluminum oxide and it is when a thin, undetectable and wildly resilient layer forms over the metal creating a near impenetrable coating. This coating seals the furniture item, protecting it from inclement weather, daily usage and the rays of the sun.

Beware of Monsoons- Because cast aluminum patio tables and chairs are lightweight, they can be blown around in very heavy winds. This is generally not a problem unless you live in extremely active climates. In such cases, it is recommended to bring your patio furniture indoors during these seasons.

Temperature- As with all metal, aluminum conducts temperature. So when it is hot outside, the aluminum will get hot and it will get cold when it is cold. Patio furniture covers can help prevent this natural occurrence.

Décor Dilemma- Cast aluminum is not a warm, earthy material. If that rustic look is what you're going for, opt for…

Pros of Wood Patio Furniture:

Style- There is something intrinsic to wooden patio furniture that feels right. Perhaps it's that rustic country charm that people love. The look and feel of wood reminds us of outdoors and nature, and that's where we will be using our patio furniture after all. Wooden Adirondack chairs, aromatic cedar patio tables and rich teak patio loungers all are quintessential patio furniture that pops into our minds when we think of outdoor living. Metal is sleek, cool and contemporary, but for many homeowners, nothing can replace that log cabin furniture setting.

In addition to the ambiance, many people appreciate the sophistication that a nice patina finish offers. For those who don't know, many types of wood patio furniture develop a natural grayish hue over time, a color that is rich and mature. This patina finish can be prevented with yearly polishing, but, as mentioned, most homeowners prefer to leave the décor to nature.

Weather Resilience- Quality wood patio furniture is made from the most durable trees out there, namely teak and cedar. These trees produce natural enzymes that actual protect the wood from decay. These enzymes secrete antibacterial oils that seal the wood from rot, decay and damage as well as fighting off harmful agents. The natural oil is undetectable, so don't worry about it rubbing off on your clothes or body, but shockingly resilient. Teak patio furniture can be left out all year round in any type of weather without a care. You can leave it out all winter and come back to a pristine patio set the next spring. That's pretty impressive.

Durability- In addition to this natural protection, wood patio furniture is down right durable. These pieces won't flake, break or corrode like many metals can, and they won't rot or wear down as mentioned above. Made from premium quality trees, wood patio furniture is solid, and will stand the test of time, weather and even rowdy kids and teens.

Price- Quality wood patio furniture can be expensive. Your patio set will last a lifetime, most likely, but it is an initial investment that you'll need to make.

Décor Revisited- Once again, if you are looking for the chic and sleek metal look, wood is not your answer. Decide before you buy which direction you'd like to take your patio, pool or porch deck in and run with that.

To sum up, both wood and cast aluminum patio furniture have great benefits for the fun and frugal homeowner. Make your decision based on location, budget, and style preferences, as well as the above-mentioned pros and cons. Either way, choose your own personal flavor of patio furniture fast, and start enjoying your outdoor living space to the max.