Processing

Wrought Iron Patio Furniture Buying Guide

Learn more about outdoor wrought iron furniture.


Wrought iron has a strong heritage in construction and furniture building, and has long been valued for its classic aesthetic and beauty. The timeless quality of wrought iron has made this outstanding material a go-to source for constructing buildings and furniture that require exceptional durability. Wrought iron displays heavy-duty strength with characteristic heft and stability that make it ideal for construction purposes. Because of its remarkable strength, long-lasting durability, and stately aesthetic, wrought iron is often more expensive compared to other furniture materials such as aluminum, wicker, wood, and recycled plastic outdoor furniture.

Wrought iron is a classic metal material used for construction that was long utilized before the technological advancements of state-of-the-art aluminum. Wrought iron refers to metal that has been heated and hand-hammered into shape. It is comprised mainly of low-carbon iron mixed with fibrous slag inclusions, which is the fused residue of refined metals. This makes the special metal highly malleable and easy to mold and allows manufacturers and craftspeople to create unique and intricate furniture designs that are not often customary in modern style and modular outdoor furniture sets. Today, modern wrought iron outdoor furniture is typically constructed in “wrought iron style” or “machine wrought iron”. Some wrought iron furniture is a combination of cast iron and low carbon steel that is molded into frames.

Modern wrought iron outdoor furniture is applied with full-circumference welds wherever iron components intersect, and is usually finished with a powder coating to protect it from corrosion. This makes contemporary wrought iron outdoor furniture weather-resistant and exceptionally strong and durable. Wrought iron is a very heavy, sturdy material which makes it ideal in windy locations. Its substantive feel means that users won’t experience any sense of flimsiness or bowing, however, its heft must be taken into consideration as wrought iron outdoor furniture is less portable than other materials.

Another added benefit of wrought iron outdoor furniture is the artisanal quality of this type of outdoor furniture. Wrought iron’s malleability means almost limitless design opportunities that feel at once classic and modern. Wrought iron patio furniture displays a craftsman-like quality compared to standard outdoor furniture constructed from aluminum, wood, or wicker. The artisan quality of wrought iron will bring a distinguished sense of luxury and refinement to any outdoor setting. With the addition of plush cushions, wrought iron patio furniture can also prove as comfortable as other outdoor furniture options.

To protect your outdoor furniture investment, some care must be applied to wrought iron patio furniture to retain its aesthetic beauty. Over time, wrought iron can chip or scratch. Lightly sand down the area with a medium grit sandpaper and apply paint to blend in scratches. Wrought iron outdoor furniture can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild dishwashing detergent. Many people also take the extra step to apply a spray wax once or twice a year, although PatioLiving recommends consulting the manufacturer of your wrought iron outdoor furniture for specific care instructions.    

Processing