Retro Wrought Iron Patio Furniture: A Worthwhile Investment


Over the centuries, wrought iron has become the predominant material of choice in selecting outdoor patio furniture. Its durability makes it especially attractive to buyers and collectors alike. Moreover, it is especially weather resistant as opposed to furniture pieces made of wood. While weather does seem to somewhat affect its finish, a fresh coat of paint will quickly remedy the wear, though if the "shabby chic" look is one's cup of tea, a vintage patina or rusty finish will do nothing but enhance that look. Another reason for its growing popularity is found in the intricate designs which were delicately sculpted and welded into the furniture, making some pieces fall just short of being a masterpiece.



Their Maintenance and Restoration


As with an automobile, retro wrought iron patio furniture needs washing, drying, waxing and periodic glance-overs for any signs of deterioration. If restoration plans are in the works, then it’s best done during winter for enjoyment during the spring and summer. Also, restoration can entail much elbow grease, so it’s best to do it out of the blazing summer sun. 



Typically, without getting into a major restoration project, pieces need sandblasting, priming and a fresh coat of paint: black, hunter green, black olive or whatever is the color of choice. Some might choose to update the look with more modern colors, such as turquoise, pink, antique white, creamy yellow or moss green; depending on your style, any of these can look great.



Retro Wrought Iron Patio Furniture As An Investment

 

Over the years, there has developed an almost cult-like mindset concerning restoration of wrought iron patio furniture. Giving individual or set pieces a retro look has now become haute in many circles and why not?



Wrought iron patio furniture was originally a beautifully designed investment and a re-investment is in order. Today, rising prices and inferior workmanship in new pieces of mass-produced wrought iron furniture places these items out of most everyone’s budget. Furthermore, the process of welding the iron is not as detailed in the mass produced variety as it is with custom-made new or older furniture. Consequently, the iron material on the home center, imported types of modern wrought iron tends to be less heavy than that produced by modern-day artisans (yes, they do still exist) or more dated furniture, and prone to easily tip over. The color choices in mass-produced patio furniture are more limited than older pieces; however, if one chooses to paint when necessary, the furniture can easily last an extra 20-30 years.



The Retro Look And Feel



Over the years, these beautiful pieces of wrought iron patio furniture have been produced as tables with glass tops, chairs with or without armrests, benched love seats, outdoor racks and railings as well. Along with furniture, fashionable accessories like urns, plant stands and trellis structures have also added to the sense of elegance in a peaceful garden setting.


With either vintage pieces or those made by modern-day artisans (as opposed to the home center, mass-produced variety), the sturdier and heavier the metal tends to be. Likewise, intricate and exquisite designs such as flower petals, grapevines and roses are typically fashioned in hand-carved molds. They are true artistic designs forged to enhance graceful curves and delightfully ornate latticework. 

Whether you choose to refurbish an older set of wrought iron, or choose to purchase new artisan-made pieces, the artistry of wrought iron will lend a timeless elegance to your outdoor décor. 

However, perhaps the most outstanding quality of retro wrought iron patio furniture is that it gives a touch of distinguished class to even an average garden. Having a glass of ice tea during the spring, or a cup of hot coffee in winter is enhanced when enjoyed around a set of fine wrought iron furniture. No wonder so many have been passed down from one generation to another, sometimes for several centuries.