Outdoor wood furniture can add beauty and functionality to any patio, deck, or yard. However, without proper care and maintenance, outdoor wood is susceptible to weathering, rotting, cracking, and other types of deterioration. Treating outdoor wood furniture on a regular basis is key to preserving its good looks and structural integrity. There are several effective methods and products for treating outdoor wood furniture to protect it from the elements and prevent damage.
Cleaning Outdoor Wood Furniture
The first step in any outdoor wood treatment regimen is to thoroughly clean the furniture. This removes built-up dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and other contaminants that can hasten deterioration. Here are some tips for properly cleaning outdoor wood furniture:
- Remove cushions and pillows and set aside during cleaning.
- Rinse furniture with a garden hose to remove loose debris.
- Create a cleaning solution of 2 cups mild dish soap mixed with 1 gallon of warm water. Use a soft bristle brush to scrub the solution over all surfaces, crevices, and carvings. This helps lift dirt from the pores of the wood.
- For stubborn stains like mold or mildew, use a stiff nylon brush or a solution of 1 part bleach to 4 parts water applied and rinsed off after 10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue which can interact poorly with treatment products.
- Allow the furniture to dry completely before applying treatments. At least 24 hours of drying time is ideal.
Proper cleaning opens the wood grain to allow protective treatments to penetrate deeply and prepares the surface for a uniform finish.
Sanding Outdoor Wood Furniture
Sanding is an important step before treating outdoor wood. It helps remove layers of deteriorated or weathered wood cells and smooths the surface for absorbing treatments. Here are some tips for effective sanding:
- Use orbital sander for flat surfaces and a detail sander for contoured sections.
- Begin with medium grit (100-150) sandpaper to remove major damage then smooth with fine grit (220-400).
- Always sand in direction of the wood grain – avoid circular sanding motions.
- Sand underneath furniture in addition to tops and sides.
- Sand supporting structures like legs and arms thoroughly as they directly contact ground moisture.
- Use a sanding sponge for hard-to-reach crevices.
- Wipe away all sanding dust with a dry cloth once complete.
Proper sanding removes deteriorated wood cells and enables treatments to penetrate deeply for best protection.
Wood Fillers, Epoxies, and Patching Outdoor Furniture
For outdoor wood furniture with holes, cracks, deep scratches, or other types of superficial damage, using wood fillers, epoxies, or patches can help repair the areas before applying treatments. Here are some tips on fillers and patches:
- Select products specifically formulated for outdoor use such as Minwax High Performance Wood Filler.
- For best results, opt for colored fillers that are made for the type of wood, such as teak or cedar.
- Use plastic wood filler for minor cracks and holes 1⁄8” or less.
- For larger holes up to 3”, use wood filler epoxies which are more durable. Follow all manufacturer’s instructions.
- Sand patches flush with the surrounding surface once dry.
- Wipe away all sanding dust with a dry cloth once complete.
Filling damaged areas helps create an even surface profile to hold treatments. Always use outdoor rated products for repairs.
Choosing a Protective Treatment for Outdoor Wood Furniture
There are several available options when selecting a protective treatment for outdoor wood furniture. Considerations include the specific wood type, exposure levels, desired look, maintenance requirements, and cost. Here are some of the most common treatment options:
Oil Finishes
- Tung Oil – Made from the Tung tree nut, provides a slight glossy, amber color. Must be reapplied frequently.
- Teak Oil – Penetrates deep into dense teak wood for protection. Must be reapplied to maintain.
- Danish Oil – Contains tung, teak or linseed oils plus varnish. Easy to apply low-gloss finish.
Water Sealants
- Water Sealers – Water-based acrylics seal out moisture. Offer minimal protection on their own.
- Stains – Pigmented Sealers add color while protecting the wood grain. Require frequent reapplication.
- Water-Repellents – Contains paraffin, wax, or resins to repel water. Need reapplying every 1-2 years.
Paints & Solid Stains
- Exterior Paint – Offers extensive protection from elements but hides wood grain. Requires stripping for removal.
- Solid Stains – Contain pigment, resins, and liquids to penetrate wood. Last longer than semitransparent.
Marine Finishes
- Spar Varnish – Durable urethane resins create a clear, glossy coat.
- Spar Urethane – Formulated for outdoor exposure. Requires sanding between coats.
- Marine Varnish – Highly resistant varnish lasts up to 2 years before recoating.
Consider the specific features of each treatment type before selecting the optimal product.
Applying a Protective Finish to Outdoor Wood Furniture
Careful preparation is key for successful application of outdoor wood treatments. Follow these best practices for applying a protective finish:
- Work in a well-ventilated area as fumes can be strong. Use respiratory protection.
- Check the weather and do not apply finish if rain is expected within 24 hours of application.
- Carefully read all manufacturer’s instructions for application directions. Stir products well before and during use.
- Use a high quality natural bristle brush and a roller for large flat surfaces.
- Use a staining pad for hard to reach areas.
- Apply in direction of the wood grain in thin, even coats allowing proper dry time between coats as specified on the product.
- For paint or solid stains, use a paint sprayer for the most uniform application.
- Allow for thorough curing and drying time before placing furniture back in service. This can range from 24 hours up to 2 weeks depending on product.
Careful preparation and following all label application instructions will provide the most durable, uniform finish.
Caring for Teak Outdoor Furniture
Teak is a popular furniture wood cherished for its natural oils, beauty, strength, and weather-resistance. However, teak still requires periodic treatment and maintenance to look its best. Follow these tips for caring for teak outdoor furniture:
- Allow new teak furniture to weather and develop silvery-gray patina before applying treatments. This takes 12-24 months.
- To restore grayed teak, use a teak cleaner and scrub in direction of wood grain with a soft bristle brush.
- For a refreshed amber color, apply teak sealer which contains UV blockers.
- Sand teak using 220 grit sandpaper before applying treatments for maximum penetration.
- Use a teak protector every 3-4 months to shield from UV rays and water damage.
- Keep teak free of standing water which promotes mildew growth. Allow to air dry before covering.
With occasional maintenance, high quality teak can last for decades, becoming more beautiful over time.
Caring for Wicker Outdoor Furniture
Wicker refers to woven furniture made from plant materials like rattan, bamboo, willow, and more. With its woven nature, wicker requires some special care. Here are tips for maintaining wicker outdoor furniture:
- Vacuum crevices at least twice a month using a soft brush attachment to remove embedded dirt and debris.
- Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to wipe away dust and spills from the wicker frequently. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Apply a wicker protector like oil or wax annually to repel moisture and prevent mildew.
- Look for small cracks in weave and use plastic wicker epoxy to bind any loose areas together to maintain the weave pattern.
- Consider hiring a professional wicker cleaner annually to deep clean and apply protector for you.
- Inspect for any broken, loose, or missing reed sections and get repaired promptly by a professional.
- Use UV inhibitors made for wicker to prevent fading.
With proper routine maintenance, wicker can retain its beauty for many years on outdoor furniture.
Caring for Iron & Metal Outdoor Furniture
Wrought iron and other metal furniture is beloved for its durable, timeless elegance. However, it does require regular care and maintenance for longevity when used outdoors. Here are some useful tips for keeping metal furniture in top shape:
- Wipe down regularly with warm, soapy water using a soft cloth to prevent dirt buildup then rinse clean.
- Dry thoroughly after cleanings and before applying any protectants to prevent trapping moisture.
- Remove rust spots immediately with naval jelly as rust can quickly spread.
- Apply a rust-inhibiting spray annually. Reapply after any winter weather.
- For wrought iron, use a powder coating for a durable, weather-resistant painted finish in any color.
- Check for structural integrity issues like loose joints or cracks and repair promptly to avoid further damage.
- Consider covering furniture with waterproof covers during rainy seasons and winter to minimize exposure.
- For stubborn spots, use a metal polish cream to shine the surface. Avoid over-polishing.
With regular cleaning and sealing, metal furniture can offer beauty and enjoyment outside for decades.
Storing Outdoor Wood Furniture in Winter
Freezing temperatures, snow, and ice during winter can wreak havoc on outdoor wood furniture. Whenever possible, the best practice is to properly store furniture away for the season. Here are some tips for winter storage:
- Disassemble furniture units designed to come apart for moving or storage to make space.
- Before storage, clean furniture thoroughly and allow to fully air dry. Use any final treatment applications like oil at this point.
- Find an enclosed, dry area for furniture storage such as a garage, shed, basement, or covered patio or balcony.
- Place furniture up on blocks or pallets to prevent direct contact with concrete which can cause moisture damage.
- Cover furniture with clean drop cloths or furniture covers, securing carefully to prevent wind removal.
- Avoid stacking or crowding furniture which can lead to scratches, dents, or rubbing away finishes.
- Make repairs, sand away rough spots, and apply fresh finishes after taking furniture out of storage before placing outside again.
Proper over-winter storage helps wooden outdoor furniture survive harsh conditions and prevents deterioration during the off-season.
Common Problems for Outdoor Wood Furniture
Even with diligent care, outdoor wood furniture is prone to some typical problems. Being able to identify issues early allows for quicker resolution to avoid extensive damage. Here are some common outdoor furniture problems:
Flaking Finish
Causes: Normal wear, sun damage, improper initial application
Fix: Sand away loose finish, reapply protective topcoat
White Spots/Powdery Patina
Causes: Early stage mildew formation
Fix: Clean and apply mildew inhibitor like bleach solution
Gouges, Splinters & Cracks
Causes: Daily use, weather shifts, improper handling
Fix: Sand smooth, use wood filler/epoxy to patch
Joints Coming Loose
Cause: Normal use, structural issues, rotting wood
Fix: Dry rot – replace wood. Otherwise use waterproof wood glue to resecure joint.
Rusting Hardware
Cause: Metal oxidation from exposure to water and air
Fix: Remove rust, sand smooth, repaint with rust inhibiting paint
Fading Color
Cause: Sun bleaching and weathering
Fix: Use wood stain, dyes, or opaque paints to restore color
Promptly repairing any problems as they occur keeps small issues from turning into major damage over time.
Knowing When It’s Time to Replace Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor wood furniture that is properly maintained can last for decades. However, there comes a point when age, wear, and cumulative weathering means it’s time to retire a furniture set and purchase new:
- Wood feels riddled with dry rot – spongy and punky sections
- Structural failure – legs collapsing, joints failing, bolts pulling out from frame
- Unstable – rocks, wobbles from deterioration of supporting members
- No amount of sanding removes splintering grayed wood no longer accepting treatments
- Persistent mold, mildew, or algae stains cannot be removed or return despite treatments
- Cushions have lost all fluff, foam is deteriorated and crumbling apart
- Cost of repairs and constant upkeep exceeds cost of replacement furniture
- Style feels dated over time or no longer fits your décor
Knowing the signs when outdoor furniture has reached the end of its lifespan can prevent safety issues and prompt replacement. Many sets can be designed to coordinate with existing pieces.
DIY Treatment Recipes for Outdoor Wood Furniture
For those who prefer non-toxic, natural options, there are many do-it-yourself treatment recipes that can be made at home to protect and beautify outdoor wood furniture. Here are some popular options:
Simple Wood Oil
- 1 part boiled linseed oil
- 1 part citrus solvent like turpentine
- Apply a thin coat with a rag and let soak in
Olive Oil Wood Treatment
- 2 parts extra virgin olive oil
- 1 part lemon juice
- Heat oil until warm, mix in lemon juice
- Rub into wood with soft cloth
**Tea Stain Wood