Metal furniture has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. From classic wrought iron to modern aluminum, each metal offers unique advantages that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. In this blog post, we will delve into the diverse metals used in furniture manufacturing, highlighting their unique features and advantages, and discuss why steel stands out as the best choice for most applications.

The Diverse World of Metal Furniture

Metal furniture has come a long way since its early days, when it was primarily used for outdoor or industrial purposes. Today, metal furniture is found in various settings, from offices and dining rooms to outdoor spaces and living areas. The primary metals used in furniture manufacturing include steel, aluminum, iron, and brass. Each of these materials has unique features and advantages that cater to different preferences and lifestyles.

Steel: The Best Choice for Durability and Versatility

Steel is one of the most popular materials used in furniture manufacturing due to its strength, durability, and versatility. Steel furniture is known for its ability to withstand heavy use and resist wear and tear, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas. Additionally, steel is resistant to corrosion, which makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

One of the key advantages of steel furniture is its ability to be molded and shaped into various designs. This makes steel an excellent choice for modern and contemporary furniture styles, as it can be crafted into sleek and minimalist designs that showcase its clean lines and smooth surfaces. Furthermore, steel can be easily combined with other materials, such as wood, glass, or upholstery, to create a unique and sophisticated look.

Aluminum: Lightweight and Corrosion-Resistant

Aluminum is another popular choice for metal furniture, especially for outdoor applications. Aluminum furniture is lightweight, making it easy to move and rearrange as needed. This material is also resistant to corrosion, which makes it a practical choice for outdoor settings where it will be exposed to the elements.

However, aluminum is not as strong as steel, which means that aluminum furniture may not be suitable for heavy-duty use or areas with high traffic. Additionally, aluminum furniture may be more prone to dents and scratches, which can affect its appearance over time.

Iron: Timeless Elegance and Strength

Iron is a classic choice for metal furniture, particularly for outdoor settings. Wrought iron, in particular, is known for its durability and strength, making it an excellent choice for furniture that will be exposed to the elements. Iron furniture is also known for its intricate designs and patterns, which can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. Urban Forge's popular Forest Canopy Bed boasts incredible, organic detail.

However, iron furniture can be heavy and difficult to move, which may limit its use in certain settings. Additionally, iron is more prone to rust than other materials, which means that it requires regular maintenance and care to keep it looking its best.

Brass: Luxurious and Decorative

Brass is a material that is often used for decorative elements in furniture, such as handles, knobs, and accents. Brass is known for its luxurious appearance and warm, golden color, which can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any piece of furniture.

However, brass is not as strong as steel or iron, which means that it may not be suitable for heavy-duty use or applications where durability is a primary concern. Additionally, brass can tarnish over time, which may affect its appearance and require regular polishing and maintenance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the diverse metals used in furniture manufacturing each offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. However, wrought iron stands out for its timeless appeal, durability, strength, design versatility, low maintenance requirements, and eco-friendliness. For those seeking a high-quality, long-lasting investment that combines both form and function, wrought iron is an excellent choice. 

Urban Forge is not the average furniture company. Our process takes longer, and we like it that way. Each piece begins as a sketch. Once in production, every inch is meticulously crafted by our artisan blacksmiths. Shop our collection of iron beds, stools, chairs, swings, benches, tables and more!