Outdoor wooden furniture can add beauty and functionality to any outdoor space. However, being exposed to the elements takes a toll, causing outdoor wood furniture to weather, warp, crack, and degrade over time. Proper care and maintenance are essential for keeping outdoor wooden furniture looking its best so you can enjoy it for many years. This article will provide useful tips and advice to help you properly treat and care for outdoor wooden furniture.
Cleaning Outdoor Wood Furniture
Regular cleaning is important for maintaining outdoor wood furniture. Here are some effective cleaning methods:
Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
Use a soft bristle brush to gently remove any loose dirt, leaves, pollen or bird droppings. Avoid using abrasive brushes or scrubbing too hard, which can damage the wood surface.
Wash with Mild Soap and Water
Mix a mild dish detergent like Dawn with warm water in a bucket. Use a soft sponge or cloth to wash the wood. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue, which can cause staining over time. Avoid excessive water pressure from a hose.
Clean Mildew and Mold
Mix one part bleach with four parts water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray on mildew spots and let sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. This helps kill and remove mildew without harming the wood.
Remove Grease Stains
Use a degreasing cleaner formulated for wood or make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently rub on grease stains and let sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. Baking soda helps draw out deeply soaked grease from the wood pores.
Address Scratches and Nicks
Use a little olive or mineral oil on superficial scratches to help reduce their appearance. Deeper nicks may need colored wax fillers specifically made for repairing outdoor furniture.
Let Wood Dry Completely
Always allow the furniture to dry thoroughly before applying any treatment or sealer. Moisture trapped under finishes can cause major damage.
Sanding and Restoring Outdoor Wood Furniture
Over time, outdoor wood furniture may weather, splinter and develop cracks, requiring more extensive restoration. Here are some tips:
Sand Away Rough Areas
Use 120-150 grit sandpaper to smooth any splintered or cracked areas of the wood. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain.
Remove Old Finish
You’ll need to completely strip off old sealer or paint before refinishing. Use chemical strippers or meticulously sand down to the bare wood. Be sure to neutralize the wood after using a chemical stripper.
Replace Broken Parts
It may be possible to repair broken wooden dowels, spindles or joints using wood glue and clamps. Otherwise, replacement parts can be ordered from the manufacturer.
Fill Large Gaps and Cracks
Use an exterior wood filler specifically designed for outdoor furniture for the best results filling cracks and holes. Let it dry completely before sanding flush.
Apply Wood Conditioner
Conditioning the bare wood before staining helps ensure an even color and minimizes blotchiness. Use a product recommended for your wood species.
Stain and Seal the Wood
Stain adds color and provides protection. Multiple thin coats of high-quality marine spar varnish or polyurethane work best for sealing outdoor wood furniture.
How to Weatherproof Outdoor Wood Furniture
Weatherproofing protects outdoor wood furniture from moisture, sun damage, mildew and other elements. Here are some effective weatherproofing options:
Use a Wood Sealer
Penetrating wood sealers protect the inside fibers from moisture while allowing the wood to breathe. They contain UV blockers, mildew inhibitors and water repellants. Reapply annually.
Choose Outdoor Paint
Specially formulated exterior paints protect outdoor wood and add color. Look for paint with UV protection to reduce sun damage. Reapply every 2-3 years.
Stain and Varnish the Wood
Applying exterior wood stain provides protection along with color. Follow up with 3-4 coats of marine spar varnish for added water resistance and UV blocking.
Try a Water Repellant Coating
Top coats like Thompson’s Water Seal absorb into the wood while creating a water-resistant barrier. Reapply 1-2 times per year for best performance.
Use an Oil Finish
Tung and teak oils provide a natural finish that repels water. Refresh monthly during summer. These need more frequent reapplication than sealers.
Paint End Grain
The end grain on table tops, arms and legs absorbs the most moisture. Paint them thoroughly with each re-coat to prevent cracking and splitting.
How to Protect Outdoor Wood Furniture From Moisture
Since moisture is the biggest threat to outdoor wood furniture, here are some key tips for protection:
Check for Proper Drainage
Ensure that water drains freely under and around the furniture and doesn’t puddle. Improve drainage as needed.
Keep It Covered
Use furniture covers specifically sized for each item when not in use. Breathable fabric helps prevent mildew growth under the cover.
Allow Wood to Dry Out
If furniture gets wet from rain or sprinklers, remove cushions and wipe down or uncover to allow it to completely air dry as soon as possible.
Bring Cushions Inside
Don’t leave cushions out overnight or when rain is expected. The foam will soak up moisture and take days to thoroughly dry out.
Add Protective Feet
Attach felt pads, plastic feet or other types of risers to prevent direct contact with wet surfaces. Raise furniture up an inch or two.
Check for Leaks
Inspect furniture for leaks during and after rains. Use caulk as needed to seal any cracks and gaps that allow moisture inside.
Keep Wood Well Sealed
Maintain protective finishes like penetrating sealers. Reapply as often as recommended, especially during wet seasons.
How to Fix Warped Outdoor Wood Furniture
Outdoor wooden furniture that becomes warped from weather or water damage can often be repaired. Here are some tips:
Act Quickly at First Sign
Address any warping as soon as it begins. Take action before the wood dries in a warped shape to increase chances of straightening it.
Remove Hardware and Cushions
Take off any hardware attached to the furniture and remove cushions before attempting to flatten warped wood. This prevents further damage.
Wet the Wood Thoroughly
Use a garden hose to soak the warped area for 30-60 minutes. The wood fibers expand when wet, allowing them to be slowly manipulated back into shape as they dry.
Clamp Boards Straight
Place wood clamps, tourniquets or ratchet straps along the underside and topside of warped boards as needed to pull them flush again. Check straightness with a level.
Let Dry Completely Under Clamps
Keep clamps tight for 24-48 hours while the wood dries completely. The straightened fibers will retain the flattened shape as the moisture leaves.
Sand and Refinish
Once fully dry, sand away any raised grain before applying fresh protective finish. Thorough sealing helps minimize re-warping.
Replace Damaged Pieces
Severely warped wood that can’t be straightened may need replacement. Use marine epoxy to splice in new matching pieces.
How to Stop Outdoor Wood Furniture From Rotting
Wood rot can quickly destroy outdoor furniture. Follow these tips to prevent it:
Keep Wood Clean
Don’t allow dirt, debris, pollen or bird droppings to sit on the furniture. These can retain moisture against the wood and promote rot over time.
Seal Before Assembly
Seal all wood parts prior to constructing furniture. End grain and joints are vulnerable points for moisture to penetrate.
Allow Circulation Underneath
Elevate furniture up off the ground using feet, spacers or risers. This enables air flow to dry out the undersides.
Check for Standing Water
Ensure water runs off furniture and doesn’t puddle underneath. Use sand or gravel to improve drainage if needed.
Avoid Excess Moisture
Don’t use a power washer or direct a hose at furniture, which can force water into joints. Cover furniture during rains.
Reseal Damaged Areas
At the first sign of surface cracks, immediately sand smooth and reseal with varnish. This prevents moisture from penetrating deep into the wood.
Replace Rotted Wood
If rot has taken hold, the wood will need to be cut out and replaced. Treat surrounding areas to prevent spreading.
How to Get Rid of Mold on Outdoor Wood Furniture
Mold and mildew are common on outdoor wood surfaces. Follow these tips for removal:
Mix a Vinegar Solution
Use an all-natural mold killing solution of 1/2 cup vinegar, 1/2 cup water and 15-20 drops of essential oil like tea tree or clove.
Scrub With Baking Soda
Make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently scrub moldy areas using a soft bristle brush or sponge with the paste.
Use Milk or Lemon Juice
Soak a cloth in milk or lemon juice and lay it directly on the affected area for 2-3 hours to help break down mold and mildew.
Try a Commercial Mold Remover
Look for outdoor wood mold removers that contain sodium hypochlorite or hydrogen peroxide. Follow product directions closely.
Power Wash Carefully
For stubborn mold, use a pressure washer on the lowest setting from at least 12 inches away. Avoid forcing water into wood pores.
Sand Away Stains
Sometimes mold leaves stubborn stains even after killed. Lightly sand these areas and refinish to remove any residual discoloration.
Prevent Future Growth
After mold removal, apply protective sealers or finishes to help prevent recurrence. Address any moisture issues.
How to Fix Cracks and Splits in Outdoor Wood Furniture
Outdoor wood is prone to cracking and splitting over time. Here are some repair techniques:
Clean Out Splits
Use a vacuum and small knife to remove all debris inside cracks before repairing. Pack thin cracks with sawdust from sanding for filler.
Repair Small Splits with Glue
Apply water-resistant wood glue deep inside thin cracks using a small nozzle. Then clamp tightly until the glue dries fully.
Fill Gaps with Colored Wax
Choose colored wax wood fillers to match your furniture finish. Press filler deeply into wider cracks according to product directions. Allow proper drying time before sanding smooth.
Plug Larger Splits
Glue in colored wooden golf tees, matchsticks or toothpicks cut to fit wider gaps. Sand flush after drying completely. Stain to match surrounding wood.
Epoxy Major Damage
Two-part epoxy formulated for wood repairs works well for extensive cracks. Force it deep into the gap to fill it completely. Sand and refinish once hard.
Add Support Brackets
Install angled metal brackets to the underside of cracked boards using exterior-rated screws. This provides extra strength and stability.
Replace Severely Damaged Wood
Extensive cracking or splitting may require cutting out and replacing portions of the wood. A professional can match pieces seamlessly.
How to Revive Weathered Gray Outdoor Wood Furniture
Over time in the sun and rain, outdoor wood furniture can turn gray and faded. Here are some ways to restore rich, warm wood tones:
Remove Old Finish
Strip off all existing sealer or paint coatings to expose the bare wood. Use chemical strippers or sand thoroughly.
Clean and Brighten
Mix oxalic acid powder from the hardware store with warm water according to package directions to create a brightening solution. Apply this to the gray wood using a rag or soft brush. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Repeat if needed.
Neutralize and Dry
Wipe the wood with water mixed with baking soda after brightening to neutralize the acid. Allow the furniture to dry completely.
Sand Gently
Use 220 grit sandpaper to lightly sand the brightened wood. This helps open the pores and smooth the surface.
Apply Wood Stain
Choose a semi-transparent exterior wood stain close to the original furniture color. Test in an inconspicuous spot first. Use a rag to gently apply the stain. Wipe off any excess after 3-5 minutes.
Seal with Varnish
Allow the stain to dry fully before applying 3-4 protective coats of marine spar varnish. Lightly sand between coats for best results.
How to Paint Outdoor Wood Furniture
Sometimes it’s preferable to paint over stained outdoor wood furniture using these steps:
Remove Loose Paint or Stain
If old finish is peeling or flaking, you’ll need to completely strip the furniture down to the bare wood before painting.
Sand the Surface
Lightly sand to smooth any rough areas and help the paint adhere properly. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain.
Wipe Away Dust
Use a tack cloth after sanding to remove all sawdust and debris from the furniture.
Apply Primer
Use an exterior wood primer specifically designed for outdoor furniture and painted surfaces. This helps the topcoat last. Allow drying per product directions.
Paint With Exterior Acrylic
Choose a high-quality acrylic latex paint made for outdoor use. Thin the first coat by adding in paint extender to help it soak into the wood. Apply 2-3 unthinned topcoats.
Consider a Painted Finish
For a distressed, antique look, apply a final glaze coat in a contrasting color. immediately wipe some glaze away with a rag for an irregular patina.
Add Clear Protective Coat
Once paint is completely dry, apply 1-2 coats of clear outdoor polyurethane sealer for added protection.
How to Refinish Teak Outdoor Wood Furniture
Teak has natural oils that help it resist water, mildew, and pests. Here are some tips for refinishing outdoor teak furniture:
Allow Teak to Weather
Over time, untreated outdoor teak will develop a silvery gray patina. Some prefer to allow this natural aging.
Clean Thoroughly
Before refinishing, wash teak using a deck cleaner, wood brightener or mixture of 1 part bleach and 4 parts water to remove mold and reveal fresh wood.
Sand Away Gray Layer
For a like-new brown teak color, sand the weathered surface lightly with 120-150 grit sandpaper to remove the grayed fibers.
Apply Teak Sealer
Choose a penetrating teak sealer or teak oil formulated for outdoor use. Apply a thin coat according to product directions using a foam brush or clean rag.
Consider a Teak Stain
To add or restore rich color, use an exterior teak stain in the desired hue following the manufacturer’s application guidelines.
Protect with Marine Varnish
After staining, apply 3-4 coats of high-quality marine spar varnish. Allow full drying between coats.
Maintain with Teak Oil
To keep the finish looking its best, reapply teak oil 3-4 times per year. This nourishes and protects the wood.
FAQs About Caring for Outdoor Wood Furniture
What is the best way to clean outdoor wood furniture?
Use a soft brush and mild detergent with warm water for regular cleaning. For tougher dirt and stains, create a paste with baking soda and water. Always scrub gently in the direction of the wood grain. Rinse well and allow to fully dry.
How can I get rid of mildew on outdoor wood furniture?
Mix equal parts bleach and water to make a spray solution. Lightly mist mildew patches and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing away. For a non-chemical option, use white vinegar.
Should I sand outdoor wood furniture before refinishing it?
Yes, light sanding is important prior to restaining or repainting outdoor wood furniture. Use 120-150 grit sandpaper to smooth and prepare the surface. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain.
How often should outdoor wood furniture be sealed or stained?
Sealers and stains on outdoor furniture typically need to be reapplied at least once a year. Teak oils may need reapplication 3-4 times per year. Check the product label for specific recommendations.
What’s the best way to weatherproof outdoor wood furniture?
Using penetrating sealers, marine-grade varnish, exterior wood stains or a water-repellant coating will all help protect outdoor wood furniture from moisture. Keep wood covered when not in use.
Can warped outdoor wood furniture be fixed?
If caught early, light warping can often be repaired by wetting and clamping the wood straight while it dries. Severe warping may require replacing some boards. Address the underlying moisture issue.
How can I revive faded gray outdoor wood furniture?
Strip off old finish then use an oxalic acid brightener. Neutralize, lightly sand and apply fresh stain in the original hue. Seal with exterior varnish. This restores rich wood tones.
What’s the best paint for outdoor wood furniture?
Look for exterior grade acrylic latex paints. Oil-based alkyds also perform well outside. Add paint extender to the first coat. Apply at least 2-3 topcoats for protection and durability.
Conclusion
Outdoor wooden furniture can remain beautiful for years when properly maintained. Keeping wood clean, sealed, and protected from excess moisture are the keys to longevity. Address any minor repairs as soon as they occur. Follow the cleaning, sealing, repairing, refinishing and care tips provided to get the longest useful life out of cherished outdoor wood furniture.