How to Repair Aluminum Patio Chairs

By: Scott Schilling, This Old House magazine

Shopping List

Supplies You Will Need

1. Replacement sling or single-wrap vinyl straps

2. Pegs
for vinyl strap installation

3. Metal furniture paint
for touch-ups or repainting

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Tools List
Tools You Will Need
- Utility knife
- Flexible tape measure
- Rubber mallet
- Wire cutter
- Screwdriver
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Photo: Matthew Septimus

Introduction
Overview
Steps:
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1-2 hours
About $10-$20 per chair

Difficulty: Easy to moderate Takes a little muscle, but you can do it

Left outdoors in rain and shine, metal deck and patio furniture takes a beating. Frames accumulate unsightly nicks, scratches, and rust; vinyl straps discolor and loosen; mesh slings rip; fasteners pop out.

But that doesn't mean you have to toss the old set and buy new. For a fraction of the cost of replacement, you can tackle basic repairs yourself. "This is something homeowners can definitely do," says Steven Gentino, owner of The Chair Care Co., an outdoor-furniture refinisher in New Haven, Connecticut. "It takes a little muscle and a couple of hours, tops." Gentino's company is one of many nationwide that can supply the necessary materials, fasteners, and even the touch-up paint. You can also try contacting your chair's manufacturer for a list of authorized repair services.

Here, once you have your parts, learn how to revive two types of painted aluminum chairs; one with a vinyl-strap back and seat, the other with a one-piece mesh sling.