Expert Eye: Folding Tables and Chairs

Even those not given to anthropomorphism can see a malicious, alligator-like vendetta in the snapping hinges of folding chairs and tables. For expert wrangling advice, I spoke with Joel Landau from A&W Metal Works, interior designer Dini Weinstock, and custom fabricator Yehuda Tropper of Hadar Custom Woodcraft.

Materials

Folding seats and tabletops can be made of plastic, wood, metal, or synthetics like acrylic.

Tubular steel folding chairs (the archetypal chairs you see most often) can hold up to 500 lbs. These chairs are the most sensitive to wetness and rust if left outdoors. When maintained, they can last up to 20 years. Check product descriptions to see if the metal is powder-coated, which will help it last longer. You can also spray metal frames in Rust-Oleum to prevent weather damage, but this will not protect the frames as much as powder-coating.

Plastic and acrylic can endure rain and heat, but they can crack under weight or abuse. Plastic is more comfortable than acrylic because it is softer, while acrylic makes for some of the most elegant folding furniture. Most manufacturers say that these chairs can hold up to 250 lbs, but this estimate is for short-term use. Sitting in the chair for over two hours will put more strain on the frame than the estimate allows.

Fabric makes the comfiest and lightest director-style folding chairs. When these chairs are made of a solid-color neutral fabric and wood legs, they have a unique, high-end aesthetic. Director’s chairs last best when made of outdoor fabric. A well-made fabric folding chair can hold up to 350 lbs, but quality varies greatly.