How to Protect Outdoor Wood Furniture

Outdoor wood furniture can be a beautiful addition to any backyard or patio. However, because it is exposed to the elements, outdoor wood requires special care and maintenance to keep it looking its best. Protecting your outdoor wood furniture should be a priority to ensure it withstands the weather and lasts for years to come. This comprehensive guide will provide useful tips and recommendations on how to properly clean, seal, repair, and store outdoor wood furniture.

Cleaning and Prepping the Wood

Keeping your outdoor wood furniture clean is the first step toward protecting it. Dirt, debris, mold, and mildew can damage the surface and lead to decay. Here are some tips for cleaning outdoor wood furniture:

Remove Dust and Dirt

Use a soft bristle brush to gently brush away any loose dirt or debris. Pay close attention to intricate carved details or spaces between slats where dust can collect. A vacuum with a brush attachment can help remove dust from hard-to-reach areas.

Wash with Mild Soap and Water

Mix a few drops of dish soap or a small amount of Murphy’s Oil Soap into a bucket of warm water. Use a sponge or soft cloth to wash all surfaces and crevices. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that might scratch the wood. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Remove Mold and Mildew

Check for any visible mold or mildew, which often shows up as black spots. Wipe away any mold growth with a cloth dampened with a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution or white vinegar. Allow the furniture to dry completely in the sun afterward.

Allow the Furniture to Fully Dry

After washing, let the outdoor wood furniture dry completely before applying any protective sealant. Moisture trapped under sealant can cause major damage. Let the furniture dry for 24-48 hours in warm sunny weather before sealing.

Sealing and Protecting the Wood

Applying a protective sealer is one of the most important steps for preserving outdoor wood furniture. Sealers provide a barrier against moisture, UV rays, and other damage. Here are the most effective options:

Teak Oil

Teak oil is ideal for teak or other dense exotic hardwoods. It contains natural oils that penetrate deep into the wood grain to protect from inside. Teak oil also enhances the rich color and patina of the wood. Apply a thin coat with a lint-free cloth and wipe away any excess.

Tung Oil

Tung oil is derived from tung tree nuts and creates a hard, water-resistant finish. It soaks into the wood well to protect against moisture. Apply tung oil liberally with a clean cloth and let it soak in for 10-15 minutes before wiping away the excess. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours before applying another coat.

Polyurethane

An oil-based polyurethane sealant provides the best protection for outdoor woods like cedar, redwood, cypress, and pine. The thick coating helps repel water while allowing the wood to breathe. Use a brush to apply polyurethane, following the direction of the wood grain. Apply 2-3 thin coats, allowing each to dry for at least 24 hours between coats.

Marine Varnish

Marine varnish contains UV blockers that reflect harmful rays, preventing graying and wood damage. It forms a hard protective finish ideal for outdoor furniture. Use a foam brush to apply the varnish across the wood grain and let dry 24 hours between coats. Lightly sand between coats for maximum durability.

Spar Urethane

Spar urethane is formulated specifically for outdoor use. It provides superior protection from moisture while resisting yellowing, peeling, and cracking. Use a good quality natural bristle brush and apply thin coats. Let the furniture dry for at least 72 hours before normal use.

No matter what sealant you choose, apply according to manufacturer’s instructions. Reapply the protective sealer once a year or as needed to maintain the finish and replenish UV protection.

Repairing and Refinishing Outdoor Wood

Even with proper care, outdoor wood furniture will need repairs and refinishing over time to keep it in good shape. Here are some DIY repair tips:

Fix Splits or Cracks

Use waterproof wood glue to repair splits, cracks, or loose joints. Clamp the pieces tightly together while the glue sets. Wipe away any excess glue and allow the area to fully cure for at least 24 hours. Sand and refinish the surface afterward.

Replace Loose Screws or Hardware

Over time, screws and other hardware can deteriorate and become loose. Replace any damaged screws with new exterior-grade stainless steel hardware. Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting. Tighten everything securely.

Sand Away Rough Areas

Use 120-150 grit sandpaper to remove any splintered, cracked, or rough areas. Sand with the direction of the wood grain. Avoid over-sanding, which can damage the surface. Wipe away sanding dust.

Refinish Worn Areas

Spot treat any extremely faded or worn areas by recoating them with fresh sealant. Lightly sand the worn sections first to help the new finish adhere. Apply thin coats of the sealant, allowing ample drying time between coats.

Replace Damaged Slats or Pieces

Severely damaged wood may need replacement. Remove screws or hardware to detach the broken piece. Stain or seal a new wooden piece to match. Drill pilot holes and reattach using exterior screws. Refinish repaired section.

Add New Color or Stain

To change the color or renew faded furniture, you’ll need to remove old finishes first. Use chemical stripper or sand thoroughly with 60-80 grit paper to strip off the existing sealant. Then apply desired stain and protective sealant.

Storing Outdoor Wood Furniture in Winter

The harsh winter elements – freezing temperatures, snow, and ice – can damage outdoor wood furniture. Follow these tips to properly store it for winter:

Clean and Dry

Before storage, clean your outdoor furniture thoroughly and allow it to dry completely. Dirt and moisture that remains on the furniture can cause damage over time.

Apply Protective Coating

Give your outdoor wood furniture extra protection by reapplying a fresh coat of marine varnish, tung oil, or other sealant before winter storage. This helps repel moisture all season long.

Move to Covered Storage

Place furniture in a garage, shed, or covered area to keep it protected from rain, ice, snow, and other precipitation. Ensure the storage space stays dry and well-ventilated.

Use Furniture Covers

For pieces that must stay outdoors, use weather-resistant furniture covers. Look for covers made of waterproof, breathable fabric. Secure the covers properly so wind doesn’t blow them away.

Store Cushions Indoors

Remove any cushions or pillows and bring them inside – temperature fluctuations can damage the fillings and fabrics. Store cushions flat to retain their shape.

Elevate Off Ground

Elevate furniture up off the ground during storage using wood blocks or bricks. This allows airflow and prevents moisture damage.

With proper sealing and protection, outdoor wood furniture can offer beauty, comfort, and functionality for many years. Follow these maintenance tips and enjoy your outdoor oasis for seasons to come! Let us know if you have any other questions about keeping outdoor wood furnishings looking their very best.

Frequently Asked Questions About Protecting Outdoor Wood Furniture

How often should you apply sealant to outdoor wood furniture?

It’s best to reapply protective sealant to outdoor wood furniture about once per year, or as needed. This helps replenish the coating and maintain effective water repellency and UV protection. More frequent reapplication may be needed with furniture that receives very heavy use.

What is the best sealant for outdoor wood furniture?

Teak oil, tung oil, polyurethane, marine varnish, and spar urethane are all good sealant options for outdoor wood furniture. Polyurethane or marine varnish tend to provide the most robust protection. Choose a sealant suitable for the specific type of wood.

Can you use indoor furniture sealants outdoors?

Sealants made for indoor use will not hold up outdoors and are not recommended. The UV rays, moisture, temperature fluctuations, and other elements will break down interior sealants very quickly. Use heavy duty exterior-grade sealants.

How do you prepare wood for sealing?

Proper preparation is key before sealing outdoor wood. Clean away all dirt, dust or debris. Wash the wood with mild soap and water and allow a full 24-48 hours to completely dry. Lightly sand to roughen the surface and wipe away any residual dust or particles before applying sealant.

How long does outdoor wood furniture last?

With proper maintenance and care, outdoor wood furniture can realistically last 5-7 years on average, and sometimes up to 10 years or longer. Harsh weather, sun exposure, heavy use, and inadequate sealing all shorten outdoor wood’s lifespan. Storing it in winter helps extend its life.

Can you refinish outdoor wood furniture?

Yes, outdoor wood furniture can be refinished to restore worn surfaces or change its look. You’ll need to completely strip off the old sealant and stain before applying the new coatings. Refinishing requires proper preparation, staining, sealing, and drying time between steps.

How do you weatherproof outdoor wood furniture?

The best ways to weatherproof outdoor wood furniture are sealing it with a protective coating like marine varnish, spar urethane, or teak oil, and covering the furniture when not in use. Store furniture somewhere dry during winter months. Elevate off damp ground and use covers to guard from rain and snow.

How do you get mold and mildew off outdoor wood furniture?

Mix a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol or white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the solution onto any mold and mildew spots and use a soft cloth to wipe the area clean. Allow the furniture to dry completely before resealing or covering to prevent future growth.

Can you leave wooden patio furniture outside in the winter?

It’s best to move outdoor wooden furniture into a covered area like a shed or garage for winter if possible. If you must leave furniture outside, try to elevate it off the ground and cover it completely with waterproof, breathable covers. Leaving wood furniture exposed to winter elements can lead to cracking, splitting, and accelerated decay.

Conclusion

Taking proper steps to clean, seal, repair, and store outdoor wood furniture is crucial for maximizing its lifespan and beauty. With routine maintenance and protection, your outdoor wood furnishings can stay gorgeous year after year. Implement this comprehensive guide of tips to care for and preserve your valuable outdoor wood furniture investments. Let us know if you have any other questions on keeping your outdoor wood looking its absolute best all season long!


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