How does cast iron’s brittleness limit outdoor bench design flexibility?

Cast iron is a popular material for outdoor furniture due to its durability and classic aesthetic. However, its brittleness poses significant challenges for bench design flexibility. Unlike more malleable metals, cast iron is prone to cracking or breaking under stress, limiting intricate or lightweight designs. This restricts creative shapes and thin structural elements, often resulting in bulkier, heavier benches. Additionally, brittleness makes cast iron benches vulnerable to damage from impacts or extreme weather, reducing their practicality for dynamic outdoor environments. To overcome these limitations, designers often opt for alternatives like steel or aluminum, which offer greater flexibility without sacrificing strength. Understanding cast iron’s constraints helps in crafting outdoor benches that balance aesthetics, durability, and functionality.