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What is Iron Furniture?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Iron furniture includes any type of furnishings constructed with the use of cast or wrought iron. Furniture of this type is often used on porches and patios, as well as in yards and gardens. Part of the appeal of iron furniture is the ability to shape the individual furniture pieces into a number of different designs that are both practical and attractive.

In most homes, iron furniture is primarily utilized in an outdoor setting. When used as patio furniture, the metal furnishings are usually chairs, tables, and benches. The same is true when the furniture is used in gardens or as porch furnishings. By using metal for the pieces of furniture, it is possible to maintain a clean and finished appearance for a number of years.

Outdoor chairs and benches for public use have historically been made of wrought iron.
Outdoor chairs and benches for public use have historically been made of wrought iron.

Wrought iron furniture is often configured into designs that are somewhat intricate. The backs and seats of chairs may display patterns reminiscent of grapevines or elaborate patterns that capture the eye. The overall design may include many graceful angles or sport simple and sharp angles along the back, seat, arms and legs of the finished piece. Iron furniture may be somewhat petite in stature or oversized, depending on the desires of the homeowner.

When it comes to the finish on iron furniture, the metal is usually sealed and then painted with a glossy paint. A time-honored approach is to use basic black for the iron furniture, although it is also possible to purchase iron furniture with a white finish. In recent years, designer colors such as forest green have also proven popular in some locations.

Unlike wicker or resin furniture, iron furniture is capable of holding up very well in extreme temperatures. When the metal is properly sealed, cleaning the pieces requires little more than hosing down the furniture and allowing it to air dry. Repainting iron furniture is equally simple and can be accomplished by using a paintbrush or cans of aerosol paint. As long as the paint used is formulated for use with metal, it will adhere properly to the furniture and allow the pieces to look new again.

Purchasing iron furniture is a simple task. Many home stores, hardware stores, and discount retail establishments carry one or more styles of iron furniture sets. While some designs require some assembly for each piece, many examples of iron furniture come fully assembled and are ready for placement immediately upon delivery.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

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    • Outdoor chairs and benches for public use have historically been made of wrought iron.
      By: Horticulture
      Outdoor chairs and benches for public use have historically been made of wrought iron.