When selecting furniture for commercial spaces, it’s easy to assume that most options are the same. At first glance, many products may look identical—but the reality is that not all commercial furniture is built the same. The materials and specifications used in construction make a significant difference in durability, performance, and long-term value.

Below are the key factors to look for when investing in high-quality commercial furniture.

1. Aluminum Frames: Choose Aircraft-Grade Aluminum

One of the most important components of commercial furniture is the frame. Look for furniture made with aircraft-grade aluminum rather than standard aluminum. Aircraft-grade aluminum is stronger, more fatigue-resistant, and designed to withstand heavy, repeated use—making it ideal for commercial environments where furniture sees constant wear.

2. Frame Size Matters

Commercial aluminum furniture typically comes in 1-inch or 1¼-inch extruded aluminum frames. While both are common, 1¼-inch frames are more robust and provide greater stability and load-bearing capacity. This added strength is especially important in high-traffic areas such as restaurants, hotels, and outdoor venues.

3. Powder Coating Quality

Not all powder coatings are created equal. Ensure that the furniture is fully powder-coated, and more importantly, look for AAMA 2604-certified powder coating. This is considered a premium industry standard.
AAMA 2604 coatings offer superior resistance to fading, corrosion, and wear—especially in outdoor conditions—where lower-grade coatings tend to fail much faster.

4. Long-Term Value

By choosing furniture that meets these specifications, you’ll benefit from products that last significantly longer under constant use. This reduces both replacement frequency and ongoing maintenance costs, saving money over time while maintaining a professional appearance.

Final Thoughts

When evaluating commercial furniture, don’t just focus on appearance or price. Paying attention to frame material, frame size, and coating quality ensures you’re investing in furniture built to perform—day after day, year after year.