A patio chair works harder than an indoor one: it is dragged across pavers, stacked every night, left in full sun and occasionally used as a step ladder. Aluminum handles that better than anything else at a sensible weight. Unlike steel, it cannot develop red rust when the coating is chipped; it forms a thin oxide layer instead.
What to look for in a contract aluminum chair
| Feature | What we specify | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tube wall | Heavier-wall tube on legs and joints | Prevents leg splay on uneven pavers |
| Joints | Fully welded, ground smooth | No crevices for water or hairline cracks |
| Pretreatment | Chrome-free conversion coating before powder | Stops coating creep from chips |
| Coating | Outdoor-grade polyester powder; fluoropolymer for coastal sites | Color and gloss retention under UV |
| Feet | Replaceable glides with drain path | Protects decks; no trapped water |
| Stacking | Stacks typically 5-8 high depending on model | Faster close-down, less storage |
The range
Slatted designs such as the Sandbar Slat Armchair and Sage Slat Armchair shed water instantly and need no cushion. The Boardwalk Composite-Slat Armchair adds wood-look composite slats for a warmer look without teak maintenance. For the most budget-sensitive rooftop and quick-service patios, the Rooftop Resin Side Chair is a one-piece molded alternative.
All frames can be coated in any color from standard RAL charts, which matters when a chain wants the same chair in three brand colors across locations. Standard seat height is 17.7-18 in (45-46 cm) to suit 29-30 in (74-76 cm) dining tables.