Adding Shine To Aluminum Patio Chairs
Aluminum patio chairs are popular as a practical and aesthetic outdoor furniture option. Aluminum chairs are regarded as the ideal exterior/open-air furniture, as they can withstand harsh temperatures and offer years of use with minimum care. Aluminum patio chairs could be either painted or unpainted. The painted variety is treated like any other painted metal surface and cleaning it occasionally with mild soaps and water is sufficient. Every few years, it can be re-painted to add some shine to the weathered surface. However, painted patio chairs aren’t very common. Patio chairs made from unfinished aluminum are regarded as the more upmarket choice. They have a distinct styling advantage, having a characteristically shiny exterior.
Though these chairs do not rust, they are vulnerable to oxidation. This is natural, since they are exposed to external climatic changes. Oxidation can be understood as slow corrosion that eats into the brilliant shiny finish that a patio chair should have. Oxidation is known to cause pitting on the chair. Oxidized aluminum chairs have small specks on the surface that ruin the polished appearance. To keep your aluminum chairs shining forever, you would have to develop a combined strategy, i.e. Regular Cleaning along with Specific Shining Techniques.
Recommended Regular Cleaning of Aluminum Chairs
Cleaning the Chair
Tending Scraped Surfaces
Restoring the Shine
Waxing the Chair
Alternative Shining Methods
Things You Shouldnt Do At All
- Avoid using chemical cleaning productsfor example, trisodium phosphate or Ammonia.
- Avoid those cleansers which contain oxidative chemicals like alkaline.
- Do not use any pressure washer as it may damage the powder coating of aluminum.
- Do not leave any cleaner products on your furniture. And try to make it air dry as much as possible.
- It is strictly instructed that we should not use any bleach and abrasive products to clean our cast aluminum furniture.
- In the case of a wax coating, do not polish a thick layer. Then it will absorb more dust and will make it sticky.
Step 3 Buff Away Scratches
A wax-based cleaner may be used to buff away any surface scratches.
Just as if buffing a car, apply the cleaner to a cloth and work the cleaner onto the scratches in a circular motion.
Buff all surfaces for a sleek and shiny look. Follow up with a quick rinse.
The wax coating will remain on the cast aluminum patio furniture for some time, protecting the piece until the next coat is applied.
Method 4 Salt And Lemon
Mix lemon and salt in a bowl and apply it onto the rusted surface. You can also apply the lemon first and top it off with salt.
While the acid in the lemon helps to loosen the rust, the salt acts as an abrasive and helps remove the rust. Once the mixture is applied, leave it for about 20 minutes. You can then scrub and clean the surface with an abrasive.
How To Keep Outdoor Furniture Clean
All this cleaning may have you wondering how you can reduce the amount of time you need to spend taking care of your outdoor furniture. Is there a way to just keep them cleaner in the first place? Its all about placement. If you can keep patio furniture on hardscaping, out of the sun and rain, and potentially even under a cover, youll prevent a lot of the mess and wear-and-tear. Still, tidying off your furniture frequently is the best way to avoid long-term damage.
Keeping your furniture clean and well maintained ensures its longevity. We have the furniture you need to fit your style. Contact us today.
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 manufacturers guidelines.
Wrought Iron And Metal Furniture
How to Clean:
- Mix up a squirt of dishwashing detergent with a bucket of warm water.
- Scrub surface with a scrub brush.
- Rinse furniture and allow to dry.
- Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any rusted spots down to the bare metal.
- Wipe off any metal reside with a clean cloth dampened with mineral spirits or naphtha.
- Spray bare spots with a primer made for metal, such as those made by Rust-Oleum following the directions on the can . Allow surface to dry for recommended time.
- Spray furniture with paint made for metal of the desired color, following the directions on the can .
- Allow paint to dry thoroughly before using furniture.
Cheap Ways To Remove Rust Stains From Your Patio Furniture
Beautifying your backyard or patio with metal patio furniture undoubtedly enhances the overall appeal of the house. However, one of the biggest problems of using metal patio furniture is that it tends to rust very quickly. Living in a climate where the humidity is very high only means that the furniture rusts even quicker. Once this happens, most homeowners seek professional help to remove rust from their patio furniture. Although professionals do a thorough job in cleaning the furniture, you can actually remove the rust stains yourself! There are many household items that can help in remove rust from your patio furniture.
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How To Protect Outdoor Furniture From Rust
As with wood furniture, you can add a cover or other fabrics to the metal furniture to protect it from rusting. The better it can be sheltered from rain, the slower the rusting process will be. So, tucking your metal patio furniture beneath a gazebo or other shelter is a wise idea.
Most metal furniture will have a powder coating from the manufacturer that slows down rusting. Still, it is a good idea to apply your own coating to the furniture once a year, or once every other year. For metal, wax is a good option, as it will cause water to roll right off. You can use an automotive wax, or buy wax made specifically for outdoor furniture.
What if your furniture has already rusted? Its unsightly and will continue to degrade the metal, so its wise to tackle it right away. You can sand the rust off Be sure to apply a primer and a rust-protective coating once youre done.
Plastic Molded Resin Or Vinyl Strap Patio Furniture
Cleaning Solution:
3 Tablespoons of Dishwashing Detergent to 1 Gallon of Water
or
1 Cup of White Vinegar to 1 Gallon of Water
Plastic furniture, molded resin, or vinyl strap outdoor furniture are popular choices for backyard landscapes. They are typically less expensive than other options and very easy to maintain! This is not to say that you can just leave them outside year round without a care in the world! Regular cleanings will ensure that you have clean, inviting patio furniture for every guest. Using one of the solutions above, make sure to use a soft sponge or soft cloth to gently remove dirt. You should not use any abrasives on plastic because it can shred the material. If you do need something stronger, you can sprinkle baking soda onto your sponge or cloth to tackle bigger buildups. Then, rinse with a garden hose and allow to completely dry in the sun before storing. Plastic should be stored indoors for the winter because it can become brittle in colder temperatures.
Bonus: If your plastic outdoor furniture is looking lackluster, you can finish with a paste wax. Make sure to buff off any residue and the furniture will look good as new!
How To Remove Rust On Oxidized Metal Patio Furniture
The biggest threat to metal and aluminum outdoor furniture is oxidation. Rust spots are a blemish that must be dealt with as soon as possible. Remove all of the rusted areas down to the bare metal using steel wool, a wire brush, or sandpaper. Make sure to wipe off all residue from the rust before applying a metal-specific primer to the bare metal. Once the primer is applied you can repaint the metal to match the rest of the furniture.
Bonus: Once you are done painting, apply a coat of paste wax to protect even further against the elements!
How To Prevent Furniture From Rusting
With the passage of time, rust automatically starts forming, ruining the appearance of garden furniture. However, there are certain preventive measures you can take to lower the speed of rust formation.
- Regular maintenance keeps metal furniture away from the danger of rusting. Wipe every part of the furniture with a clean dry cloth regularly, especially in moist weather.
- Protect from rain and direct sunlight. Use coverings.
- Apply a thin coat of paste wax, paint, grease or oil as a water repellant layer for rust-free protection.
How To Clean Plastic And Hard
Use these tips to remove stains and built-up grime on plastic patio chairs and tables. Make your own mild cleanser by mixing 1/2 cup baking soda mixed with 1-gallon warm water, or 3 tablespoons dishwasher detergent and 1 gallon of warm water. For colored plastic, mix 1/4-cup vinegar with 1 quart of warm water. It’s best to avoid using chlorine and bleach on white plastic furniture because they eat away at the material.
For stubborn stains, dampen a clean rag with white distilled vinegar and wipe down the piece. You can also sprinkle baking soda on a wet sponge to create a mild abrasive that will peel away stains but won’t scratch surfaces. Avoid abrasive cleaners, which will scratch plastic outdoor furniture. After washing your plastic furniture, protect it with a coat of automotive paste wax.
How To Clean Outdoor Patio And Deck Furniture
Regardless of whether the outdoor furniture on your patio or deck is made of wood, aluminum, wrought iron, or plastic; it takes a lot of abuse from the elements including sun, rain, snow, and extreme changes in temperature.
Here are some tips on how to clean and protect the furniture on your deck or patio to keep it looking like new.
Plastics Taking Care Of Synthetic Deck Furniture
Plastic is lightweight, fade-resistant and can take on many different shapes, textures and styles. It also does not require paint or sealants used by other materials. That makes this synthetic polymer easy to maintain and a great inexpensive option for outdoor furniture. Cleaning and caring for plastic furniture is really dependent on the form it takes.
Sticky spills and drips like tree sap may require commercial products , but rubbing alcohol will suffice in many cases. Regardless of the solution you choose, its important that you immediately rinse these agents away once youve cleaned the problem areas. Extended exposure to the chemicals in some products can fade plastic and shorten the aesthetic lifespan of your patio furniture.
All-Weather Wicker Cleaning woven resin furniture
In the past, natural or painted white wicker furniture was used primarily for indoor or porch seating where there was at least some protection from the elements. That was needed because organic materials were used to make the weave. Contemporary synthetic wicker, however, provides all of the aesthetic qualities of a natural weave without the vulnerability to rain, sleet and snow . Cleaning the nooks and crannies in intricate resin wicker patio furniture does take a little effort though.
Regular Cleaning Routine For Aluminum
Get in the habit of giving your aluminum a thorough clean after each use or whenever you start to notice oxidation occurring. Be on the lookout for small white spots, discoloration, and grime that becomes increasingly hard to get rid of.
- Flat-edge spatula
To clean anodized aluminum pot or pan, rinse it under a steady stream of water. If youre cleaning other things like aluminum wheels, use a wet microfiber cloth or hose to rinse it.
If it still has spots, fill or cover the aluminum with very hot water. Add several drops of strong dish soap and mix until you have soapy water. Let soak for up to an hour.
Use a flat-edge spatula for scrubbing away the heavy oxidation spots until the aluminum looks free from anodized marks. This technique requires putting in a little elbow grease.
How Do You Refurbish Outdoor Furniture
How To Refinish Outdoor Furniture Step 1 Sand The Grey Away. If your outdoor furniture has great weathered wood you need to sand that surface layer of UV damaged wood off and get to the healthy wood just beneath the surface. Step 2 Clean & Tack. Clean all the sanding dust away by blowing the furniture off. Step 3 Apply Stain. Step 4 Apply Finish.
How To Clean Wrought Iron
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Wrought iron is an ornamental metal popularly used to make patio furniture, railings, shelving, and ornamental décor like wine racks and candle holders. Wrought iron can add character to both the inside and outside of your home, and it generally lasts longer than alternative materials. However, due to its slightly coarse texture, wrought iron can sometimes catch and hold extra dust and dirt, and it will inevitably rust. Its important to regularly clean and care for your wrought iron to preserve it and keep it looking its best.
How To Restore Algae
Green-stained chairs are typically covered in algae or some kind of staining from plants. In order to get rid of this problem for any significant amount of time, you need to use something to kill the algae. A vinegar solution is acidic enough to do the trick.
If the solution didnt do the trick, you may need to use a pressure washer to take it off. Start with a low-pressure setting and work your way up to a pressure that is effective, that way you reduce the odds youll harm the furniture with too strong a stream.
Once youve removed the algae stain, youll want to refinish the plastic so that the algae are less likely to grow back.
Cleaning Outdoor Plastic Furniture
Never use harsh or abrasive cleaners on plastic: chlorine and bleach may get rid of stains, but they can eat away at your furniture in the process. Abrasive cleaners are problematic as well, because they will scratch away the plastic, leaving unsightly marks and lead to more problems. If your furniture has lost its shine, try spraying it with WD-40 and wiping it dry with a clean, soft cloth.
Instead of using harsh cleaners, opt for a mild cleanser for your furniture. If you have colored plastic, you can use a mixture of 1 quart warm water with ¼ cup of vinegar. For white or very light-colored plastic furniture, try 1 gallon of warm water with 3 tablespoons of automatic dishwasher detergent. The dishwater detergent contains a very mild bleach which enables it to do a good job of removing stains.
Shaving cream can also work well to clean plastic: spray it on; let it set for a few minutes; scrub lightly with an old, soft toothbrush; then wipe off. If stains remain, you have two options: with a wet sponge, use white distilled vinegar or baking soda. After cleaning, you can apply a coat of automotive wax for added protection.
How To Clean Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture
We always look for modern furniture and nothing can be better than Aluminum Patio furniture for our garden space.
However, there are some drawbacks to using this material as furniture. To avoid it, you need to take care of it by cleaning regularly.
There are certain facts that you need to keep in mind while cleaning cast aluminum furniture. What if you are not aware of them?
No worries, in this article we will give you the A to Z guideline about how to clean cast aluminum patio furniture.
Tabular Array
Aluminium Foil And White Vinegar To Clean Rust
White vinegar is the most effective household item that can be used to remove rust. However, this cleaning technique requires you to dip the rusted metal surface in vinegar overnight, so that rust can come off easily. Since you cannot dip furniture into vinegar, theres another way you can clean the rusted parts.
First of all, spray WD-40 on the rusted area and wipe it with a cloth to remove any dirt and grease. Now, sprinkle some vinegar on the furniture and dip the aluminium foil in vinegar. Scrub the rusted area until you see the rust coming off. This might take some time because you will have to put in some serious elbow grease.
Woods Cleaning Tips For Wooden Outdoor Furniture
Most wooden garden tables and seating are constructed from hardwoods that can be cleaned and cared for in a similar fashion.
If youre letting the woodgrain patina , then you can get by with cleaning wooden patio furniture once or twice a year. If you want to retain the woods natural brown color, youll need to clean it more regularly and treat it with furniture oil and possibly a light layer of sealant . The frequency is dependent on your climate and if the furniture is sheltered. Drier climates or areas with more sun exposure will require more frequent maintenance. Spills should be cleaned immediately to minimize potential staining.
Teak
Over time,teak furniture develops a pleasing silvery gray patina thats cosmetic and not an indication of dryness or physical defect. Its natural oils help keep this hardwood strong and durable in a variety of environments, so theres very little maintenance. In fact, teak is so weather-resistant that it doesnt need to be stored over the winter or covered with protective tarps.
Smoothing out weathered texture
Refinishing Rusty Old Patio Furniture
September 12, 2018
Outdoor furniture getting rusty is a common occurrence and can be fixed quite easily. Although buying new furniture to replace older patio furniture is fun, its not always in the budget. If thats the direction you choose to go, check out our selection of wrought iron patio furniture.
Alternatively, if you dont want your furniture to rust no matter how long its kept outside, take a look at our outdoor aluminum furniture. Cast aluminum is lightweight and never rusts. If youre looking for low maintenance furniture, thats the direction to go! But maybe youd rather refinish your current furniture, rather than buy new stuff.
Buying new patio furniture isnt cheap, we get that. Luckily, removing rust and refinishing patio furniture is actually a pretty simple task! Its also much cheaper than buying new. Were going to give you some general steps and recommendations to make sure your patio furniture refinishing experience is a breeze.
Before you get started:
Its always a good idea to utilize protective equipment. We recommend goggles, gloves, and a respirator mask. Better safe than sorry!
Metals General Guidelines To Clean Metal Patio Furniture Frames
Metallic patio furniture looks amazing when new, but can become a point of embarrassment if neglected and allowed to rust or stain. Most frames are easily cleaned in a similar fashion, but each metal has its own characteristics and nuanced care.
Be sure to pay attention to the underside as well as any joints. Avoid using any acid, solvent or alcohol-based cleansers or abrasive brushes or pads that may scratch the surface.
Stainless Steel
Hairline brushed steel frames give outdoor tables and seating a sleek upscale look. However, the slightest spot or discoloration can detract from the sophisticated appeal. Greasy hands and rainfall can result in dirty and spotted metal. While furniture made from 316 marine grade stainless steel will not rust, 304 and lesser grades that are not electrostatically polished are susceptible . Fortunately, there are simple remedies for all of these issues to keep your stainless steel outdoor furniture in good shape.
Cleaning hard water stains off steel
Hardscaping 101: How To Care For Metal Patio Furniture
With spring in swing, were liberating our outdoor furniture from storageand noticing that it could use extra care and cleaning to get in shape for the season.
Heres our guide to cleaning and caring for metal furniture. .
N.B.: Featured photograph by Bethany Nauert for Gardenista, from Enchanted Garden: Whimsy and Wit at Palihouse in Santa Monica.
Cleaning Iron And Aluminum Furniture
One of the problems with aluminum furniture is its tendency to show scuff marks. You can removed these scuffs quite easily using a non-abrasive cleaner such as Soft Scrub. Keep in mind that you should never use alkaline cleaners like ammonia or TSP with metal furniture . These cleaners will cause oxidation, which is already a major problem merely through outdoor exposure. If your furniture is showing signs of oxidation, you can remove it in one of two ways: with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, or with a metal polishing paste.
Iron furniture, on the other hand, is subject to rust. If your furniture has become rusty, you can start off by sanding off the damaged paint and rust. Once that is done, wipe off the metal with a cloth dampened with naphtha or mineral spirits. Before repainting your iron furniture, use a rust-resistant primer; when its ready to paint, make sure to use one of the many rust-resistant paints that are available.
If you dont feel up to dealing with rust removal and painting yourself, you can turn to a professional. An outdoor furniture restoration specialist will remove the existing paint and rust with thorough sandblasting, then powder-coat your furniture for a brand-new finish that will last much longer than a simple paint job will. Your aluminum and iron furniture can then be kept looking new by regular cleaning followed by a coat or two of regular automotive wax.
Baking Soda And Water To Clean Rusty Metal
The combination of baking soda and water is the same as lime juice and salt. You need to create a thick layer on rusted areas to allow time for the baking soda to work. First, sprinkle baking soda on the rust and then sprinkle water on it. Keep doing this until the rusted surface is evenly coated. Wait for an hour or two and then scrub this with a brush.