O.W. Lee Aluminum vs. Wrought Iron: How to Choose
O.W. Lee has been working metal since 1947, when it started with wrought-iron gates in Pasadena. Today every collection, made to order in Comfort, Texas, is built one of two ways: hand-forged wrought iron or aluminum. Both come in the same 14 frame finishes and the same fabrics, with a 20-year structural frame warranty. The difference is character and weight.
Side by side
| Wrought iron | Aluminum | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Heavier; stays put in the wind | Lighter; easy to rearrange |
| Style | Scrolls, rivets and decorative detail | Clean contemporary and mid-century lines |
| Rust | Protected by OW Lee's finish; touch up chips | Will not rust |
| Collections | Monterra, San Cristobal, Pasadera, Classico | Aris, Arc, Avana, Horizon, Marin, Studio |
Choose wrought iron if...
- Your patio is windy, on a rooftop or exposed, and you want furniture that will not move.
- You love Old World detail: hand-forged scrollwork, rivets and curves.
- You want OW Lee's best-sellers. Monterra, OW Lee's #1 collection, is wrought iron.
Choose aluminum if...
- You rearrange often or need to move chairs for cleaning and storage.
- You want clean, modern lines; Studio, Avana and Aris are great examples.
- You live on the coast and want a frame that simply will not rust.
Caring for either
Rinse with mild soap and water and dry, especially near salt water or pools. On wrought iron, touch up any chips in the finish promptly to keep moisture out. More tips in our outdoor furniture care guide and materials guide.
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Frequently asked questions
Is OW Lee wrought iron or aluminum?
Both. Monterra, San Cristobal, Pasadera and Classico are hand-forged wrought iron; Aris, Arc, Avana, Horizon, Marin and Studio are aluminum.
Which is better in the wind?
Wrought iron. Its heavier frames stay put on windy patios and rooftops.
Does OW Lee aluminum rust?
No. Aluminum does not rust, which makes it a strong choice near the coast.
Do both come in the same finishes?
Yes. Both are offered in OW Lee's 14 frame finishes and the same fabric collection, with a 20-year structural frame warranty.
Where is OW Lee furniture made?
Every piece is made to order at OW Lee's factory in Comfort, Texas.
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