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In days past, iron – whether cast or wrought – was the material of choice for patio furniture because of its durability. However today there’s plenty to be said for cast aluminum patio furniture.
Creating aluminum furniture through casting has actually been used for centuries. Carving a wooden model of the table, chair, lounge or other piece is the first step. This wooden model is used to create molds from metal. The wood model is pressed into casting sand to make an impression for the piece that the metalworker wants to make.
Next, the wooden model is used to make metal molds. This is done by pressing the wooden models into the casting sand in order to make an impression. Then the metalworker pours molten metal into the sand model. When the aluminum hardens and cools, the sand is knocked away to reveal the gleaming metal furniture beneath.
Cast Away Doubts About Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture
This method allows for fine details to be incorporated into the casting impression. The molten metal fills in these details when it’s poured into the sand cast. The addition of this craftsmanship has help increase the popularity of cast aluminum for both indoor and outdoor furniture.
Besides tables and chairs, cast aluminum today is made into furniture such as bar sets, ottomans, end tables and loungers. Not at all flimsy, cast aluminum furniture brings strength, durability and versatility of shapes and sizes among its assets. Plus it can be left outside until cold weather arrives, requiring less storage and maintenance.
Cast aluminum patio furniture has gained its appeal partly because it’s easier to maintain than many types of outside furniture such as wrought iron, resin wicker and wood. However, no material comes without needing maintenance, so it’s still essential to care for aluminum patio furniture to preserve its finish, which will extend its life.
To clean cast aluminum, set aside all cushions and accessories so they won’t get splashed with soap. After all, why rinse them if they don’t need it?
Next, mix a small amount of mild dish detergent with warm water in a bucket. Using a soft cloth, wipe down the furniture, especially the underside and the joints where sections meet and dirt can get trapped.
If the furniture shows scuff marks, remove these by rubbing gently with a non-abrasive cleaner. Aluminum furniture can be scuffed by anything that rubs against it including shoes, children’s toys, lawn and garden tools and the furniture itself, as when a chair might scrape against a table leg. If you are trying to avoid using chemical cleaners in the home, try using a solution of cream of tartar in water to remove scuffs. Do not use baking soda on aluminum; it’s too abrasive. Vinegar could be substituted for dish detergent if desired.
Once all the cleaning is done, rinse the furniture thoroughly. The easiest way to do this is to use the garden hose outside. Then allow to dry completely. If concerned about water spots, dry with a soft cloth.
Finally, you can protect the surface of cast aluminum patio furniture by rubbing it with baby oil or cax wax (be sure to buff). This also will make the furniture shine attractively, adding to its appeal.
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