Cast Aluminum Furniture Care

With simple, regular maintenance and care, cast aluminum patio furniture will provide years of enjoyment. Although patio furniture is designed specifically for outdoor use, years of exposure to sun and rain will take their toll—Over time, aluminum furniture can become weathered, and the shine can fade if not taken care of. Here are the steps you need to follow to clean and maintain your cast aluminum furniture.

Cleaning Cast Aluminum Furniture

Remove Dirt And Grime

You should avoid allowing dirt to build up on the metal frames, as this may cause it to become more difficult to remove over time. Also, allowing dirt and grime to build up can corrode the surface and cause serious damage if left unattended for a long period of time. Occasional cleaning with mild soap and water, followed by rinsing and a thorough drying with a towel is typically all that is required. Do not use any abrasive materials, cleansers or bleach products as these may damage the finish.

Keep An Eye For Calcium Buildup

If you notice calcium build-up on your cast aluminum furniture, you can try using a solution of 1 part white distilled vinegar and 9 part water to help remove it. Limescale looks unclean, builds up very quickly, and it can damage your furniture. Consisting mainly of calcium carbonate, this is caused by hard water and it can present itself in many different colors, mostly chalky white. Before you apply your solution, you should always test the solution on an inconspicuous area of the frame before applying to ensure it doesn’t discolor the finish.

Prevent And Treat Severe Oxidation

Although aluminum does not rust, oxidation can become an issue. To avoid severe oxidation from occurring, treat small specks as soon as you identify them. If you let it, it can become really difficult to remove, even if you use metal polish. Taking care of your furniture will pay off in the long run, but always be careful with the products you use and make sure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Preventative Maintenance

Use Wax Or Oil

If your cast aluminum furniture has a shiny or glossy, non-textured finish, you may also use a fine automotive wax to maintain it. This will help in reducing the amount of dirt and debris that accumulates on the frame finish. On furniture textured surfaces or finishes, you can periodically apply mineral oil or baby oil to prevent dirt build-up and restore the luster.

Inspect For Scratches Or Chips

Periodically, you should inspect your cast aluminum furniture for any scratches or chips in the finish. If you should find any areas where the bare metal is exposed, you should contact your furniture manufacturer or retailer for information about how to repair it. Depending on the size of the area, you may be able to use touch-up paint to correct the problem. Touch-up paint in matching frame colors is typically available through your retail dealer or furniture manufacturer.

Prevent Water Accumulation

Additionally, you should prevent water from accumulating in frame by removing the adjuster glides or foot caps from the bottom of the legs. Allowing water to collect inside cast aluminum furniture that is exposed to freezing temperatures can cause damage to the frame that is typically not covered under a manufacturer’s warranty.

Use Furniture Covers

Furniture covers are great for protecting your beautiful assets from the harsh elements. High-quality covers can make an enormous difference in the lifespan of your furniture, thus, it is one of the best investments you can make. To keep your aluminum patio furniture looking its best, you may want to use protective furniture covers when not in use for an extended period of time.