Caring for Your Aluminium Furniture
The care and maintenance of all materials used in outdoor furniture is essential to combat the detrimental effects of the elements, and this includes powder-coated surfaces. Although powder coating provides excellent longevity, you only have to look at a car to know that over time the finish can show some effects of wear, such as corrosion, chalking and erosion.
What is powder coating?
Powder coating is the best way to apply colour and protection to a metal surface. The metal is coated with a dry powder and baked to produce a uniformly coloured, hardened surface. This provides resistance against marking and scratching, a consistent colour, and an easy-to-clean surface.
While powder coating on aluminium and stainless steel means you have a relatively low-maintenance material, some care will be required to maintain its protective properties and combat the detrimental effects that sun, rain, dust, leaves and salt air can bring. These are the measures we recommend.
1. Avoid harsh chemicals — powder-coated finishes are much more resistant to things like rust, corrosion, peeling and fading. However, that resistance doesn't mean it's fine to use chemical cleaners and solvents to clean the surface. Harsh cleaners and solvents like acetone can actually damage powder coating.
2. Regular cleaning — regularly wash your powder-coated furniture with warm water and mild detergent, using a non-abrasive brush or sponge. Thoroughly rinse with copious amounts of clean water immediately after cleaning, and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
3. Protective treatment — apply a light coating of high-grade, non-abrasive car wax. Use a brand that contains a UV blocker or UV inhibitors. Do not use compound-type wax for this purpose, as it contains abrasives that can harm the powder coating. Be sure to wipe off any excess wax that remains on the surface, as this can cause staining.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is powder coating?
Powder coating is a method of colouring and protecting metal furniture. A dry powder is applied to the surface and baked to produce a uniformly coloured, hardened finish that resists marking and scratching and is easy to clean.
How do I clean powder-coated aluminium furniture?
Wash regularly with warm water and mild detergent using a non-abrasive brush or sponge, rinse thoroughly with clean water, and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
Can I use chemical cleaners on powder-coated furniture?
No. While powder-coated finishes resist rust, corrosion and fading well, harsh chemical cleaners and solvents such as acetone can still damage the coating and should be avoided in favour of mild detergent and water.
Should I wax powder-coated outdoor furniture?
Yes, a light coating of high-grade, non-abrasive car wax with a UV blocker adds extra protection. Avoid compound-type waxes, which contain abrasives, and wipe off any excess wax to prevent staining.
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