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Metals and their Alloys are now used second only to wood in the manufacture of furniture. They are found to be  stronger and lighter than wood. They withstand heat and dry weather better; can be moulded into almost any form or shape and can result in more modernistic furniture. They are rigid and have a characteristic luster (shine) which makes them both useful and decorative. Metals are both malleable (capable of being beaten into shape or rolled into sheets) and ductile (capable of being drawn into wires of varying thickness). They can be cast into moulds to produce solid shapes. Other methods of working with metals include forging (hammering into shape), welding (joining metal pieces with heat) and drawing (making into thin long wire-like pieces).
Most metals are used in the form of alloys. The commonest amongst these are aluminium alloys, brass and stainless steel. An alloy is an intimate blend of two or more metals, a solid mixture in which the metals are not chemically combined. The forming of alloys adds to the strength and hardness of the metal.
Metal furniture is quite satisfactory in many respects. Tubular steel or aluminium furniture is now commonly used. The former is often found in offices as chairs, tables. Shelves, cupboards and filing cabinets. It is durable, long-lasting and neat. Tubular steel is also used to make folding chairs. Barring repainting and greasing of joints little maintenance is required. These chairs are sturdy and find wide use. Advantages:
- Strong and durable
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It can be easily molded or shaped.
- Joining by bolts rivet or welding is secured and sturdy
- All furniture can with stand weather conditions. It is easily washed with soap and light in weight
Disadvantages:
Surface finish of metal some time chipped off and occasionally they are difficult to repair or replace.
Iron: Iron continues to be used in its pure form, especially as wrought iron furniture. Because it is so  soft it can easily be forged and beaten into many shapes. This makes it suitable for intricate designs as are seen on garden furniture, on gates, grills and railings.
Chromium is well known as a metal used for coating other metals (iron, brass). This is done to protect them from rust and other corrosion as well as to give them a shiny look. When combined in suitable proportions with iron, chromium forms an important part of the alloy-stainless steel
Monel: Monel metal is a durable alloy of copper and nickel which is rust and corrosion resistant. It is t herefore used in sinks and draining boards and sometimes on the top of kitchen tables.
Brass is used for making stools, table tops, legs of some items of furniture and for decorative inlay in wooden surfaces. It is capable of being etched and may be covered with intricate designs. These may be left as they are or covered with enamel of many colours. Moradabad in U.P. is a famous centre for such work.
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