Steel and aluminium are the two most common materials used in metal garden furniture, with both offering long-lasting durability, but the two choices have more differences than you may think.
Choosing the right fit for your garden is essential when browsing outdoor furniture, so we’ve compiled a list of pros and cons to help you compare aluminium and steel options. Each material has its own unique traits, so make sure to weigh up your choices carefully and find the ideal match for your home’s outdoor space.
The verdict
Overall, metal garden furniture is a popular choice for its durability, sturdy surfaces, and weather-resistant traits.
Aluminium is light and versatile, making it a great option for customising your garden on the fly and chasing the best spots for sunlight. Steel, on the other hand, is heavy-duty and better suited for standing its ground in one place.
Steel is also prone to rust and corrosion once its protective powder coating or paint layer wears away, while aluminium is naturally resistant to such effects. This makes it a better choice for homeowners who prioritise low maintenance and easy cleaning.
Aesthetically, aluminium is softer and more flexible than steel, allowing for more intricate shapes, curves and decorative detailing. This makes aluminium furniture highly versatile, while steel tends to favour sturdier, more minimalist designs with clean, modern lines.
What are the pros and cons of aluminium garden furniture?
With its blend of utility and great looks, it’s easy to see why aluminium outdoor furniture is so popular, but what are its biggest drawbacks compared to steel units? Here’s our breakdown of aluminium furniture’s pros and cons:
| PROS | CONS |
| Lightweight enough for easy movement, allowing you to rearrange or store your furniture easily | Lighter models are prone to strong winds |
| Naturally resistant to rust | Retains heat from sunlight easily, making surfaces warm to touch |
| Easy to clean and maintain | Very little natural cushioning, so soft furnishings may be required for extended use |
| Long-lasting durability, with a powder-coated finish to resist the effects of bad weather |
What are the pros and cons of steel garden furniture?
Steel garden furniture is also impressively durable and resistant to adverse weather, but it too has disadvantages that may affect your choice:
| PROS | CONS |
| Heavy and sturdy, staying in place during storms and strong winds | Prone to rust if protective coating or paint layer wears off |
| Hardwearing surfaces that can withstand heavy impacts | Difficult to move around your garden |
| Sleek look with clean lines that looks great in minimalist, modern gardens | Heats up even faster than aluminium, making surfaces uncomfortable in sunlight |
| Powder-coated finish protects against scratches and other damage | Higher maintenance and harder to clean |
| Hard surfaces mean cushions may be required |
Compare steel and aluminium furniture at a glance
Our handy comparison table shows how steel and aluminium garden furniture match up across the board, so you can find the factor you prioritise and choose the best match for your home:
| Comparison point | Steel | Aluminium |
| Maintenance | May require sanding and the application of a metal primer when treating rust. | Low maintenance and can be cleaned easily by wiping down with soapy water |
| Durability | Very sturdy and resistant to surface damage, especially hard impacts. Powder-coated finish also adds extra durability. | Naturally immune to rust, with a powder-coated finish to prevent scratches and damage. More prone to dents than steel. |
| Visual appeal | Minimalist, sleek look with straight edges and low visual impact. Great for modern designs. | Versatile designs, typically available in a wide range of shades. |
| Comfort | Strong, solid surfaces have little natural cushioning. Additional soft furnishings may be needed. | Also has very little natural give. Cushions are recommended to provide added comfort. |
| Weight | Strong and heavy, preventing wind damage, but making customisation difficult. | Light enough for easy movement. Smaller models may be prone to strong winds. |
| Who is it best for? | Customers looking for long-lasting, heavy-duty furniture that can withstand especially rough conditions. | Customers seeking a low-maintenance, durable option with versatile visual appeal. |
Why choose Lazy Susan for your aluminium garden furniture?
Lazy Susan specialises in providing handcrafted, ornate aluminium furniture for your garden. Our collection features a wide range of designs to help bring the best out of your patio, with powder-coated finishes for extra durability and a variety of colours to choose from.
Call us on 01243 71 71 97 to speak to our staff about your garden furniture ideas, or follow our Instagram and Facebook pages to get all the latest updates about our products.
