Selecting the ideal finish for your outdoor wood kitchen cabinets is a crucial decision that will protect and enhance the beauty of your cabinetry for years to come. With the wide variety of finishes available, it can be challenging to determine which option is best suited for outdoor use. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the pros, cons, and considerations for choosing a finish for outdoor wood kitchen cabinets.
Introduction
Outdoor kitchens have become increasingly popular additions to backyards and patios. They allow you to cook, dine, and entertain outdoors while enjoying the beauty of your surroundings. A key element of any outdoor kitchen is the cabinetry, which houses appliances, utensils, dishes, and more.
Wood is a classic choice for outdoor cabinetry because it brings warmth and natural beauty to the space. However, because wood is exposed to the elements, it requires a protective finish to prevent water damage, sunlight fading, and general wear and tear. For outdoor wood kitchen cabinets, surface preparation and choosing the right finish is crucial to longevity and aesthetics.
When selecting a finish for outdoor wood kitchen cabinets, you must consider:
- Durability – The finish must stand up to sun, rain, snow, and temperature swings.
- Appearance – Options range from clear protectants to tinted stains in various hues.
- Ease of application – Some finishes require more time and skill to apply properly.
- Maintenance – How often the finish needs reapplication and repair.
- Cost – Prices range from budget-friendly to premium options.
This guide will explore the most popular finishes for outdoor wood kitchens – exploring the pros and cons of each – to help you make the ideal choice for your space and needs.
Types of Finishes for Outdoor Wood Kitchen Cabinets
Clear Wood Protectants
Clear water or oil-based protectants offer moisture and UV protection without altering the natural color of the wood. Popular options include:
- Exterior varnish/polyurethane – Water-resistant with good durability if properly applied. Requires sanding between coats.
- Spar urethane – An oil-based varnish designed for outdoor use. Provides superior UV protection.
- Tung oil – Penetrates deep into the wood for moisture protection. Multiple thin coats needed.
- Teak oil – Contains UV inhibitors to reduce graying. Enhances wood grain.
- Epoxy resin – Extremely durable 2-part finish that creates a plastic-like coating. Used on bar tops.
Pros
- Preserves natural wood color and grain
- Allows use of different wood species
- Lower maintenance than stained finishes
Cons
- Less protection from UV rays than pigmented finishes
- Requires more frequent reapplication – yearly or bi-yearly
- Susceptible to uneven fading over time
- Not ideal for low-quality softwoods
Pigmented Wood Stains
Pigmented stains contain dyes, paints, or chemical reactions to add color to wood. Common types include:
- Semi-transparent stains – Offer some coloring while allowing grain to show through. Need reapplication every 2-3 years.
- Solid stains – Opaque, paint-like coatings. More resistant to fading than semi-transparent.
- Acid stains – React with wood fibers to create mottled coloring. Won’t peel or chip.
- Opaque paints – Provide complete UV protection. Can mimic wood grain patterns. Require thorough surface prep.
Pros
- Excellent UV protection resists fading
- Colors and textures disguise flaws or damage over time
- Allows use of affordable softwoods like pine
- Opaque stains and paints completely block UV rays
Cons
- Obscures natural wood grain and color
- Tannins can cause uneven staining in some wood species
- Staining lowers wood’s ability to absorb protective coatings
- Reapplication needed every 3-5 years for optimal color
Film-Forming Finishes
Film-forming finishes utilize synthetic resins to create a plastic-like coating on the wood’s surface. Types include:
- Marine varnish – Extremely durable with UV absorbers. Requires sanding between coats.
- Marine polyurethane – Contains UV blockers. High moisture and abrasion resistance.
- Conversion varnish – Two-part chemical cure. Very durable and flexible finish.
- Catalyzed lacquer – Fast drying with excellent protection when professionally sprayed.
Pros
- Outstanding moisture, chemical, and UV resistance
- Maintains appearance and color for many years
- Can be touched up without refinishing entire surface
- Provides optimal protection for softer woods
Cons
- Long curing times between coats
- Difficult for amateur DIY application – bubbles easily
- Brittle finishes can crack, peel and require sanding/stripping
- Professional spraying is optimal but costly
Oil-Based Finishes
Oil-based finishes penetrate into the wood grains to provide protection. Common types are:
- Danish oil – Mixture of oil, varnish and thinner. Easy wipe-on application.
- Tung oil – Derived from the nuts of the tung tree. Water resistant with deep penetration.
- Teak oil – Contains UV inhibitors to reduce graying. Enhances wood grain.
- Linseed oil – Natural oil that needs reapplication every year. Slow to dry.
- Walnut oil – Light color good for light woods. Slow to dry but durable over time.
Pros
- Enhance natural wood grain and richness
- Emphasize depth and visual texture
- Easy application with rags – no brush strokes
- Soak into wood for long-term protection
Cons
- Multiple coats required for optimal protection
- Slow drying times between coats
- Food-grade oils go rancid over time
- Not as protective as varnishes and resins
- Require re-oiling every 1-2 years for maintenance
Waxes
Waxes like paste wax or carnauba create a mild water-repellant coating. Can be layered over other finishes.
Pros
- Enhance wood luster for smooth finished look
- Mild water resistance and UV protection
- Easily repaired by applying additional wax
- Food-safe options like beeswax available
Cons
- Minimal moisture and stain protection
- Requires frequent reapplication – up to 2 times per year
- Soft coating more prone to damage from abrasion or chemicals
- Difficult to apply evenly by hand
Shellac
Shellac is derived from resin secreted by the female lac bug. Often used as a sealer or primer.
Pros
- Enhances wood grain with mild amber tone
- Quick drying time
- Easily repaired by recoating affected areas
Cons
- Not very moisture, UV, or scratch resistant
- Prone to bubbling if applied too heavily
- Needs reapplication every 1-2 years
- Can yellow or darken overtime
What to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Wood Finish
With the wide variety of finish options available for outdoor wood kitchen cabinets, it’s important to think about which features are most important for your particular project. Key considerations include:
Weather Conditions
- Full sun versus partial shade – More pigmentation needed in direct sun
- Humid versus arid climate – Film-forming finishes optimal for wet regions
- Coastal environment – Higher UV protection needed against harsh rays
- Freeze/thaw cycles – Flexible finishes handle expansion better
Wood Type
- Softwoods like pine are more porous – Need deeper penetrating oils
- Open grained woods prone to collecting dirt – Film finishes create smoother surface
- Stains accentuate natural grain in hardwoods like oak or teak
- Paint/solid stain best for low-cost softwoods
Colour and Finish
- Natural look shows off wood grain – Clear varnishes optimal
- Match existing outdoor colour palette – Stain or paint to coordinate
- Even consistent colour – Pigmented opaque stains or paints
- Weathered grey patina – Allow natural aging or use grey-tinted stain
Installation Factors
- New unfinished cabinets – Any finish can be applied
- Prefinished cabinets – Limited to compatible topcoats like wax or varnish
- Factory finished – Touch up flaws only unless stripping entirely
- Previously stained wood – Must be stripped before staining a different color
Usage Intensity
- High-traffic area – Extra protection needed against abrasion
- Kids and pets – Tougher finishes withstand scratches better
- Near grill or stove – Heat-resistant layer helps protect against burns
- Bars and dining – Spills and moisture resistance important
Desired Look
- Natural, muted finish – Clear water-based penetrating oils optimal
- Bright, vibrant hue – Semitransparent or semi-solid stains
- Wood grain visible – Thin application of pigmented stain
- Uniform, consistent color – Medium to thicker film-building finish
Application Factors
- DIY project – Simple oil or varnish easier for beginners
- Professional application – Conversion varnish or marine poly optimal but costly
- Limited prep time – Quick drying shellac or lacquer speeds project
- Spraying outdoors – Wind can disrupt application of finicky finishes
Maintenance Expectations
- Frequent upkeep okay – Low-maintenance wax or light stain
- Minimal maintenance desired – Durable conversion varnish or epoxy
- Easy DIY touchups – Oil finishes can spot repair affected areas
- Consistent color retention – Darker opaque stains prolong vibrancy
Considering all of these factors together will guide you in determining the ideal finish that meets your priorities in terms of appearance, performance, longevity, and cost.
Steps for Preparing and Applying Outdoor Wood Finishes
Proper preparation and application technique is crucial for achieving optimal results from your chosen outdoor wood finish. Here is an overview of the process:
Cleaning
Remove existing dirt, oil, wax, mold, and debris using appropriate cleaners for the wood species. Sand away remaining discoloration or flaws. Wipe clean with a dry rag.
Sanding
Sand wood with progressive grit sandpaper – starting at 80 or 100 and working up to 180 or 220 grit. Always sand in direction of the wood grain. Ensure surface is smooth and flawless before finishing.
Masking
Use painters tape and drop cloths to mask off any adjacent surfaces you don’t want to risk staining, dripping on, or over-spraying.
Staining (if applicable)
Apply wood conditioner beforehand for more even staining results. Use a high-quality natural bristle stain brush. Maintain a wet edge and work from board to board. Wipe off any excess stain.
Topcoat Application
Carefully follow manufacturer instructions for dry times between coats and proper coating thickness. Apply in direction of the wood grain. Sand lightly between coats to ensure proper adhesion.
Curing
Give finish sufficient time to fully cure before regular use – up to 2 weeks for certain finishes. Avoid cleaning or placing anything heavy on surface during curing.
Regular Maintenance
Check for wear, fading, cracking or peeling annually. Sand down flaws and re-coat affected areas as needed to maintain protection and appearance.
FAQs About Outdoor Wood Finishes
What type of finish is best for outdoor kitchen cabinets?
For high-traffic outdoor kitchens, a durable film-forming finish like marine or conversion varnish provides optimal moisture, stain, and UV protection. Oil-based polyurethane is also excellent if applied properly. Opaque paints also block UV rays completely.
How long does an outdoor wood finish last?
It varies based on type of finish but expect 1-5 years for most clear finishes before needing to reapply – either full refinishing or touching up. Opaque stains and paints can last 5-10 years before showing significant wear.
Should I use the same finish on outdoor cabinets as indoor?
No – outdoor wood finishes are formulated to withstand sun, rain, snow, and temperature extremes. Using an indoor finish outdoors will result in faster breakdown from UV exposure and moisture damage.
What sheen is best for outdoor cabinets?
A satin or semi-gloss sheen balances protection and aesthetic for outdoor cabinets. High-gloss can yellow overtime and show imperfections while flat/matte provides the least moisture resistance.
Is it okay to use water-based finishes outside?
Yes, newer water-based varnishes and acrylics formulated for exterior use offer excellent protection and easier cleanup compared to solvent-based options. They allow for low-VOC application.
Can I use the same finish on different woods?
The same outdoor finish can be used on various wood species – just note that staining or finishing results may differ depending on wood porosity and grain patterns. Always test on a scrap first.
How do I revitalize a faded existing finish?
Lightly sand faded areas to rough up the surface, then clean and apply fresh coats of compatible finish. Severely worn finishes may need complete stripping and refinishing for a uniform appearance.
What preparation is needed before finishing outdoor cabinets?
Ensure surface is clean, dry, and sanded smooth. Seal any knots, sap streaks, or resinous areas with shellac to prevent bleed-through. Tape off adjacent areas you don’t want stained.
Recommended Outdoor Cabinet Finishes by Wood Type
Here are top finish recommendations for popular outdoor cabinet wood species:
Cedar
- Best: Clear tung oil, spar varnish, semi-transparent stain
- Good: Teak oil, Danish oil, semi-solid stain
- Avoid: Shellac, lacquer
Redwood
- Best: Clear polyurethane, marine varnish, semi-solid stain
- Good: Spar varnish, opaque acrylic paint
- Avoid: Film-forming sealers
Oak
- Best: Marine varnish, spar urethane, bakelite varnish
- Good: Teak oil, tung oil, semi-transparent stain
- Avoid: Lacquer
Pine
- Best: Polyurethane, opaque stain, paint
- Good: Oils, epoxy, opaque gel stain
- Avoid: Water-based finishes
Teak
- Best: Teak oil, marine varnish, Danish oil
- Good: Tung oil, exterior polyurethane, UV inhibiting stains
- Avoid: Film forming sealers, shellac
Acacia
- Best: Oil-based polyurethane, marine varnish, epoxy resin
- Good: Oils, lacquer, conversion varnish
- Avoid: Water-based finishes
Walnut
- Best: Tung oil, polyurethane, wipe-on varnish
- Good: Spar varnish, marine varnish, oil/varnish blend
- Avoid: Benite, lacquer
Conclusion
The ideal finish for your outdoor wood kitchen cabinets provides long-lasting beauty and protection against the elements. With proper preparation, application and maintenance, you can keep your cabinets looking like new for many years of cooking and entertaining outdoors. Consider factors like your local weather, type of wood, and your DIY skill level when selecting an exterior wood finish. And always follow manufacturer instructions carefully for best results. Your outdoor kitchen is a big investment – the right finish will help it retain its function and aesthetic appeal through years of use.