In the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality and retail, the strategic utilisation of outdoor spaces has become an essential element for enhancing customer experiences and boosting revenue. After all, we all enjoy a breath of fresh air to relax, dine, and socialise in an environment that combines the comfort of interior spaces with the allure of the great outdoors.
Here, we delve into the considerations between steel and aluminium for outdoor furniture, helping you make informed decisions for your next outdoor project. When it comes to choosing the right material for outdoor furniture, steel and aluminium are two popular contenders, each with its unique set of advantages and challenges. Here’s a closer look at how they stack up against each other.
Durability and Maintenance
When considering durability and maintenance for outdoor furniture, aluminium and steel each offer distinct advantages. Aluminium boasts excellent corrosion resistance due to its natural protective oxide layer, making it highly durable with minimal upkeep. Its lightweight nature allows for easy reconfiguration of outdoor spaces, and it requires no regular painting or sealing. On the other hand, Steel offers heavy-weight durability, making it resistant to strong winds and exceptionally robust. Its versatility allows for a variety of designs, from intricate wire patterns to solid forms. While steel can rust, treatments like galvanization and powder coating greatly enhance its corrosion resistance, making it a viable and durable option for outdoor use.
Aesthetic and Design Flexibility
When it comes to aesthetic and design flexibility, aluminium and steel each bring unique qualities to outdoor furniture. Aluminium offers streamlined designs, typically fashioned into sleek, contemporary tubular forms that seamlessly blend into modern settings. Its malleability allows for a variety of styles, and the availability of powder-coated finishes in a myriad of vibrant colours ensures enduring hues that complement any design scheme. In contrast, Steel provides the ability to create intricate and delicate shapes thanks to its malleable wire, adding an elegant touch to furniture pieces. Its classic look, associated with durability and strength, offers a timeless appeal that enhances outdoor spaces.
Cost and Environmental Considerations
In terms of cost and environmental considerations, aluminium and steel each have their pros and cons. Aluminium tends to be more expensive due to its corrosion resistance and lightweight nature, but its low maintenance needs and long lifespan can make it a worthwhile investment over time. Despite the energy-intensive production process, aluminium’s high recyclability offers significant environmental benefits, helping to reduce its overall ecological footprint. Steel, on the other hand, is typically more cost-effective, making it a great choice for budget-conscious projects. While steel may require maintenance treatments, it is also highly recyclable. Advances in production have made steel more sustainable, and its durability ensures a long lifecycle, minimizing the need for frequent replacements.
At Protocol, we are proud to partner with Fermob, a leader in outdoor furniture design and have been manufacturing from their facility in France for over 30 years. Fermob’s expertise in crafting high-quality aluminium and steel furniture ensures that you will find the perfect pieces to enhance your outdoor spaces. Their products are rigorously tested and designed with anti-corrosion measures, meeting the highest standards of safety, durability, and longevity. By exploring Fermob’s vibrant collections, you can transform your outdoor areas into inviting, functional spaces that delight and inspire. Whether you need garden furniture, outdoor lighting, or accessories, Fermob and Protocol together offer the ultimate solutions for your outdoor design needs.
View a selection of outdoor furniture on our website
Looking for inspiration for your outdoor project? Request your free samples today or book a showroom appointment to explore the vibrant colour palette in person. Contact us on +44 (0)20 8591 6770 or email [email protected].
Image credit: Fermob
