Outdoor furniture can take a beating from the elements. Exposure to sun, wind, rain, snow, and temperature fluctuations can damage and degrade outdoor furniture over time. Properly weatherproofing your outdoor furniture is key to extending its life and maintaining its appearance. With some simple maintenance and preparation, you can protect your outdoor furniture investment and keep it looking great for years to come.
Clean and Prepare the Furniture
Before weatherproofing, thoroughly clean your outdoor furniture to remove dirt, debris, mold, mildew, and other contaminants that can lead to deterioration.
Use a hose, brush, sponge and mild detergent to scrub away surface grime. For stubborn stains, use a pressure washer. Take care not to damage the furniture finish. Wipe away any soapy residue and allow the furniture to dry completely before weatherproofing.
Inspect furniture for any cracks, splinters, loose joints or hardware. Make any needed repairs before weatherproofing. Sand rough areas and touch up paint if needed.
Choose the Right Weatherproofing Method
There are several effective options for weatherproofing different types of outdoor furniture materials:
For Wood Furniture
- Apply a weatherproof sealant: Penetrating sealants like tung oil, linseed oil, or marine epoxy seal the wood pores to prevent moisture damage. Reapply annually.
- Use an outdoor varnish or polyurethane: These coatings seal the wood surface fully. Reapply every 1-2 years.
- Choose weather-resistant woods: Teak, redwood, cypress, shorea and ipe woods have natural weather resistance. Annual cleaning and re-oiling is still needed.
For Metal Furniture
- Use a rust-inhibiting primer: Priming bare metal before painting helps prevent rust. Reapply primer if rust starts showing through.
- Choose rust-resistant metals: Opt for aluminum, wrought iron, or stainless steel. Clean regularly and apply car wax annually.
- Touch up paint as needed: Check for paint chips and touch up with outdoor enamel paint. Fully repaint every 2-3 years.
For Plastic Outdoor Furniture
- Use UV-protectant spray: These clear sprays shield plastic from sun damage and prevent fading. Reapply a few times per year.
- Keep it clean: Wash regularly with mild soap and rinse thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Store it properly: Bring plastic furniture indoors or cover when not in use to prevent damage.
For Wicker and Rattan Furniture
- Apply protective coating: Use a clear outdoor lacquer or water repellent coating made for wicker. Reapply every year.
- Use covers: Wrap pieces individually in furniture covers when not in use.
- Keep in shade: Minimize sun exposure by placing under patio covers or umbrellas.
Additional Weatherproofing Tips
- Check furniture weekly: Make a habit of inspecting for signs of wear like fading, cracking, rust or mildew. Address issues right away before major damage occurs.
- Wash regularly: Clean with mild soap and water to remove dirt, debris and salt deposits from ocean air. Salt can corrode and degrade finishes.
- Bring cushions indoors: Don’t leave cushions out in the elements when not in use. Wet cushions can mold and mildew.
- Use furniture covers: Covers provide an extra shield from rain, snow and wind. Use breathable fabric, not plastic sheeting.
- Keep covered when not in use: Invest in a patio furniture cover, gazebo or dedicated storage shed to give furniture a protected home when it’s not in use for long periods.
- Avoid positioning in full sun: Turn or tilt pieces regularly to distribute sun exposure. Rotate pieces to different locations. Keep sensitive materials in shaded areas.
- Elevate off wet ground: Place outdoor furniture on decking or use plastic or wood patio furniture feet to prevent moisture damage from below.
- Check for loose joints: Dry weather can cause joints and connections to loosen over time. Tighten hardware regularly to ensure stability.
Pro Tip: When possible, choose weather-resistant outdoor furniture materials like teak, aluminum or synthetic wicker. These require less maintenance than less durable materials. Investing in high quality, resilient outdoor furniture pays off in the long run.
How to Weatherproof Specific Outdoor Furniture Types
The materials and construction of different outdoor furniture vary, so weatherproofing methods need to be tailored to the specific piece.
Wicker Furniture
Wicker furniture has a woven appearance, typically using materials like synthetic resin, rattan, reed or bamboo. Here’s how to care for wicker:
- Vacuum regularly with a soft brush to remove dirt from crevices
- Wash with mild soap and water using a soft cloth, then rinse thoroughly
- Allow to air dry fully before applying protector
- Use a clear outdoor wicker protector spray and apply evenly several times per year
- Bring cushions indoors when not in use
- Consider covers for seating when not in use for extended periods
- Store in a dry area during winter or off-season
Wooden Outdoor Furniture
Wood furniture can be made from many different woods, like teak, cedar, acacia, shorea, and eucalyptus. Here are wood care tips:
- Dust regularly with a dry soft cloth
- Wash occasionally with warm water and mild detergent using a soft cloth
- Allow wood to dry completely before applying weatherproofing finish
- Apply protective sealant like linseed oil or marine varnish yearly
- Lightly sand to smooth any splinters, then spot treat with sealant
- Check for loosening hardware like bolts and tighten as needed
- Store wood furniture in a covered area or use furniture covers when not in use
Plastic Outdoor Furniture
Plastic outdoor furniture is often made from polypropylene, PVC or resin. Here’s how to maintain it:
- Clean regularly with mild soap and warm water using a soft cloth
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel to prevent water spots
- Use UV-protectant spray designed for plastic furniture every 2-3 months
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could scratch plastic
- Keep plastic furniture out of direct sunlight when not in use
- Consider covers or storage indoors when not in use for extended periods
- Check for cracks and touch up paint on printed metal frames as needed
Metal Outdoor Furniture
Metal furniture is often made of aluminum, wrought iron, or steel. Maintain it with:
- Regular washing with mild detergent using a soft cloth
- Immediate drying to prevent rust
- Touch up paint on any scratches immediately to prevent rust
- Apply rust-inhibiting primer before painting if rust is visible
- Use car wax or metal polish annually to protect finish
- Store in a dry, covered area during winter or off-season
- Tighten loose screws, bolts or joints as needed
Umbrellas
Umbrellas provide cooling shade but require care to prevent wind damage. Do this:
- Close the umbrella when not in use, especially during high winds
- Tie the umbrella to a secure structure when not in use
- Remove fabric canopy and store indoors when not in use for extended periods
- Wash fabric canopy periodically with mild detergent and water
- Allow canopy to completely air dry before putting umbrella back together
- Use protectant spray designed for outdoor fabrics
- Check runner and pulley mechanisms for smooth operation
- Lubricate joints and hardware with silicone spray if needed
Outdoor Cushions
Outdoor seat and bench cushions take a beating. Protect them with:
- Use cushion covers made of breathable, weather-resistant fabric
- Bring cushions indoors when furniture is not in use
- Wash cushion covers periodically as needed
- Spot clean stains on cushions promptly
- Allow cushions and covers to completely dry before placing back outside
- Consider Using closed-cell foam or wrapped foam fill instead of regular poly fill for better water resistance
- Store cushions in a dry location indoors during winter or off-season
- Replace cushions every few years if they become misshapen or degraded
DIY Weatherproofing Products
You can save money by making your own simple weatherproofing products for outdoor furniture:
Teak oil: Mix 1 part boiled linseed oil with 2 parts mineral spirits. Apply a thin coat with a cloth and wipe away excess.
Rust inhibitor: Mix vinegar and cooking oil in a 1:1 ratio and apply to metal furniture. Wipe off residue after a few hours.
Mold and mildew spray: Use 1 part bleach mixed with 3 parts water in a spray bottle. Spray on entire furniture surface and let sit 10 minutes before rinsing.
Repellent spray: Combine 1 part olive oil and 4 parts distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray a light coat and let dry overnight.
Citrus cleaner: Mix 1 cup lemon juice with 2 cups water in a spray bottle. Spray furniture and let sit 5 minutes before wiping clean.
Always test DIY solutions on inconspicuous areas first and check for any damage to finishes. It’s safest to stick to mild, non-abrasive cleaners for most outdoor furniture.
When to Call in a Professional
While regular maintenance goes a long way, sometimes it’s best to leave extensive repairs to the experts:
- For structural damage or broken joints/frames, call a furniture repair person or woodworker. Proper tools and expertise are needed for these issues.
- If you need to fully refinish or restain wood furniture, hire a professional to do the job properly. Completely stripping and refinishing takes skill.
- For unique materials like stone, concrete, or specialty synthetics, consult a technician for the best weatherproofing methods.
- If you lack the time for regular deep cleaning and maintenance, consider hiring a professional service.
Know your limits on what you can DIY. Outdoor furniture can be an expensive investment, so repairing damage incorrectly can cost more in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weatherproofing Outdoor Furniture
What is the best way to weatherproof rattan furniture?
For rattan, use a silicone-based protectant designed for tropical woods. Apply a thin coat to seal the material without darkening or leaving residue. Reapply 2-3 times per year.
How do I get mildew off outdoor furniture cushions?
Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the mildew spots and let sit 5-10 minutes before wiping away. For tougher mildew, use 1 part bleach to 4 parts water instead. Rinse thoroughly.
Should outdoor furniture be weatherproofed?
Yes, weatherproofing is highly recommended to extend the life of outdoor furniture. Unprotected furniture is more vulnerable to sun damage, excessive moisture, winds, pollen and pollutants. Appropriate weatherproofing protects your furniture investment.
What is the most weather resistant wood for outdoor furniture?
Teak is generally considered the most weather-resistant wood, followed by cedar, redwood, cypress, and treated pine. Teak has high oil content that makes it naturally resistant to moisture, pests, and sun damage.
How often should you apply weatherproof sealant to outdoor furniture?
Once per year is usually sufficient. It’s best to apply sealants at the start of spring or end of fall when furniture has been cleaned. Remove old sealant first if it’s flaking. Reseal any new cracks mid-year as needed.
Is olive oil a good wood sealant for outdoor furniture?
Pure olive oil is not the best choice outdoors since exposure to sun can cause it to become gummy. Boiled linseed oil or tung oil are better options. They penetrate wood better and won’t get tacky over time.
Can you use car wax on outdoor furniture?
Yes, car wax can be used on metal furniture outdoors. It provides a protective layer against moisture and prevents rust. Use a high-quality paste wax for best results. Avoid waxing wooden furniture as it may lead to mildew growth.
How do you weatherproof wicker furniture?
Use a clear exterior varnish or outdoor-rated polyurethane coating. Apply a thin coat with a paintbrush and let fully dry. This seals the wicker while allowing the texture to show through. Re-coat once per year or whenever it starts looking dull.
What is the best protection for outdoor furniture?
Furniture covers provide the best all-around protection when furniture is not in use. Breathable fabric covers shield from sun, moisture, pollutants and debris. Be sure to complement covers with other methods like cleaners, sealants and waxes depending on the material.
How do you keep wooden garden furniture looking new?
Regularly clean with mild soap and water, sand lightly to smooth rough areas, use touch-up paint on nicks, and apply fresh sealant or varnish each year. Keeping wood nourished and sealed is key to maintaining its appearance long-term outdoors.
Conclusion
The secret to keeping your outdoor furniture looking its best is being diligent about regular maintenance and care. Take time to clean, inspect for damage, repair issues promptly, and apply appropriate weatherproofing products for the materials used.
Invest in weather-resistant covers, cushions, and quality construction from the start. Supplement with DIY cleaners and sealants when possible. Don’t let small problems turn into major damage – stay on top of wear and tear.
With the right preparation and upkeep, your outdoor furniture can stay beautiful and last for many years of enjoyment. Maintaining outdoor furniture takes ongoing effort but is worthwhile to extend the lifespan of furnishings you love.