Metal furniture is a solid choice for Calgary homes—indoors or out. It’s sturdy, stylish, and usually low-maintenance. But with our unique climate, even the toughest iron or aluminum pieces need some care. Between cold winters, dry air, and surprise summer hail, your furniture has a lot to handle. So if you want it to last, a little upkeep goes a long way.
Let’s get into the basics of metal furniture care in Calgary so your chairs, tables, and beds look great all year.
First—What You’re Up Against in Calgary
We live in a city with four seasons… sometimes all in the same week. That kind of climate throws a lot at metal furniture.
- Winter freeze-thaw cycles can cause rust on iron and damage protective finishes.
- Dry indoor air can dull paint and make joints creak over time.
- Hail and sudden temperature swings in spring and summer can chip powder coating or dent softer metals.
- Strong UV rays can fade finishes and weaken protective layers.
Even if your furniture stays indoors, our climate still affects how it wears.
Metal Furniture Types You’ll See Most Often
- Wrought Iron: Strong and classic, but prone to rust if not sealed.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant, great for patio sets.
- Steel: Durable but needs protection from moisture.
- Powder-Coated Metal: Most modern pieces come coated to protect from rust and sun—but chips can lead to issues.
Regular Care Tips for Metal and Iron Furniture
A few easy habits can extend the life of your furniture—indoors or outdoors.
Wipe It Down
Dust, dirt, and moisture wear away at protective coatings. Wipe surfaces monthly with a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Dry it fully to prevent moisture spots.
Touch Up Scratches
Small chips in paint or coating can lead to rust. Keep a matching touch-up paint handy (most hardware stores carry options). Clean the area, dry it, then dab on the paint.
Protect It From Moisture
Even inside, moisture builds up—especially near windows or humidifiers. Use felt pads under legs and check for water stains. Outdoors, cover furniture during heavy rain or snow, and store it inside over winter if possible.
Use Car Wax on Outdoor Pieces
Sounds odd, but a thin layer of clear car wax helps repel water and adds UV protection. Works great on powder-coated pieces. Just don’t use it on raw or untreated metals.
Tighten Bolts and Joints
Temperature swings can loosen screws over time. Check bolts and joints twice a year and tighten as needed. A quick check before patio season goes a long way.
Iron Furniture? Here’s Some Extra TLC
Wrought iron is beautiful but more high-maintenance. Calgary’s dry air and snow don’t mix well with unsealed iron.
- Apply a rust-resistant spray or wax once or twice a year.
- Keep it away from snowbanks or garden hoses.
- If rust spots appear, sand lightly and seal the spot with rust-inhibiting primer and touch-up paint.
Where to Shop and Get Advice in Calgary
If you’re unsure what kind of metal furniture works best for your space, visit Showhome Furniture at North Hill Centre. Their 70,000 sq. ft. showroom features a mix of Canadian-made custom furniture built to handle Calgary’s climate. Their team knows local conditions and can guide you on both care and style.
Plus, their free interior design consults make choosing the right materials a lot easier—and you’ll get tips on long-term maintenance too.
Final Thoughts
With a little care, your metal furniture can last for years—even in Calgary’s unpredictable weather. It’s all about knowing what you’ve got, watching for damage, and staying ahead with regular upkeep.
When it comes to metal furniture care in Calgary, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s preservation. Treat your furniture right, and it’ll last through every season.
FAQs: Maintaining Metal and Iron Furniture in Calgary Conditions
1. What causes metal furniture to rust or wear faster in Calgary?
Calgary’s weather plays a big role in how metal and iron furniture ages. Outdoor pieces are exposed to snow, hail, and moisture, which can wear away protective finishes and lead to rust. Even indoor furniture isn’t fully safe—dry winter air can cause metal to dry out or finishes to fade over time. If your furniture is near windows or heating vents, it may age faster. Regular cleaning and occasional sealing help slow down wear.
2. How do I protect metal patio furniture during Calgary’s winter months?
The best move is to store your outdoor metal furniture indoors during winter—either in a garage, shed, or basement. If that’s not an option, cover it with breathable, waterproof furniture covers. Before storing or covering it, wipe the furniture clean and fully dry it to avoid trapped moisture. Add a layer of car wax or use a rust-protective spray before winter hits. This adds a barrier against moisture and snow.
3. Can I use regular paint to fix chips on metal furniture?
You can, but it’s better to use paint specifically designed for metal or outdoor use. Regular paint might not adhere well and can peel quickly. Look for rust-inhibiting primer and outdoor metal paint at your local hardware store. Sand the chip lightly, clean the spot, apply primer, then touch up with the paint. It’s a small task that prevents bigger problems down the road—especially in Calgary’s moisture-prone months.
4. What’s the difference between powder-coated and raw metal furniture?
Powder-coated furniture has a smooth, baked-on finish that helps protect against rust, UV rays, and scratches. It’s more common in modern outdoor sets and tends to hold up better with less maintenance. Raw or untreated metal, especially iron, is more vulnerable to rust and corrosion, especially in wet or snowy conditions. If you have untreated metal, regular sealing and careful storage are a must in Calgary’s climate.
5. Is it worth buying metal furniture in Calgary, or should I go with something else?
Absolutely—it just depends on how and where you use it. Metal and iron furniture is stylish, durable, and can last for years if you take care of it. It’s a great option for patios, balconies, and even indoor spaces. Just be mindful of Calgary’s conditions and do a bit of seasonal care. For help choosing the right pieces, visit Showhome Furniture in Calgary. They carry a variety of metal styles and can help you choose what works best for your space and lifestyle.
Get Expert Help on Choosing Long-Lasting Furniture—Book Your Free Consult at Showhome Calgary
Whether you're shopping for indoor metal accents or outdoor patio furniture, Calgary’s climate can make things tricky. At Showhome Furniture, you’ll find expert advice and high-quality metal and iron furniture made to last in local conditions. Book a free design consultation and get guidance on furniture care, layout ideas, and long-term upkeep. Their 70,000 sq. ft. showroom at North Hill Centre has something for every style—and they’ll help you make choices that last through every season.
