Restaurant patio furniture that’s made out of metal can be a stunning addition to any food and/or drink establishment’s outdoor space, offering style, comfort, durability, and functionality. However, maintaining that sleek, attractive appearance requires more than just a casual wipe-down. There are specific pitfalls you should avoid to keep your metal patio furniture looking its best.
Read on below for the things that you decidedly shouldn’t do when caring for your metal restaurant patio furniture to ensure that it stays in prime condition for years to come:
Don’t Skip Regular Cleaning
One of the most common misconceptions that restaurant owners might have about the metal furniture in their establishment is that it can handle a bit of dirt and grime without any issues. However, neglecting regular cleaning is a huge no-no! Over time, you may come to find that accumulated dirt and debris can cause your furniture to look dull – and it can even lead to more serious damage if left unchecked.
Fortunately, cleaning metal furniture is easy. Just use a mild soap and water solution with a soft cloth or sponge, and gently scrub the furniture before rinsing it thoroughly with water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can strip their protective coating. Finally, dry your furniture completely with a soft cloth or rag to prevent water spots or rust from developing.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasive Materials
As mentioned above, you shouldn’t use strong chemicals like bleach or ammonia on your metal restaurant patio furniture, even though it seems like a quick way to get rid of tough stains. They can do more harm than good! Harsh chemicals can erode the finish and weaken the metal, which can lead to rust and other forms of corrosion.
When cleaning your metal restaurant furniture, stick to mild detergents and avoid using any abrasive cleaning tools, like steel wool or hard-bristle brushes. These can scratch the surface of your furniture, removing the protective coating and leaving the metal vulnerable to the elements.
Don’t Ignore Rust
Rust is the nemesis of metal patio furniture. Ignoring even the smallest rust spots can lead to widespread damage over time. That’s because when rust starts, it can spread quickly, which will then weaken the structure of your furniture–not to mention, create an unsightly appearance.
At the first sign of rust, you should act immediately. Gently scrub it off using a rust remover product and a soft cloth. After removing the rust, apply a metal primer and a touch-up paint specifically designed for metal surfaces. This will help protect the metal from future rusting.
Don’t Leave Your Furniture Unprotected in Bad Weather
Some restaurant owners might think that because their patio furniture is made of metal, that it can be regularly exposed to the elements and harsh weather conditions. This is a common mistake! Rain, snow, and even strong sunlight can cause significant wear and tear.
When not in use, use high-quality furniture covers to protect your pieces. During the off-season or in inclement weather, store your furniture in a dry, sheltered area if possible. This simple step can dramatically extend the life of your metal patio furniture.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your outdoor seating area remains inviting and stylish. These tips are brought to you by RestaurantPatioFurniture.com, your one-stop shop for outdoor restaurant furniture, including restaurant chairs, tables, booths, bar stools, and more.
