When it comes to picking new furniture for your patio or backyard, wood furniture is a solid investment. Not only does it look great, wood furniture is sturdy and long-lasting. Plus, it won’t rust and is available in a variety of shades and colors. However, wood furniture does require a bit of maintenance to protect it from the elements and keep it looking great. This article will show you a number of options to help protect your wood furniture from the elements.
1. Paint It
If your wood furniture is not finished, painting it is a way to protect the wood as well as customize it to perfectly complement your existing decor. Use spray cans, rollers, or paint brushes to cover the furniture with a dependable shield against sun or water. Your furniture may require touch ups or a fresh coat over the years as time progresses. For the best protection, look for a paint that is designed for outdoor use.
2. Seal It
Painting provides dependable protection, but what if you don’t want to cover the natural woodgrain of the furniture? Fortunately, there is another option. Sealers are a clear liquid that penetrates into the wood providing a protective barrier against moisture and spills. Sealers earn their name by sealing up the pores of the wood to prevent water or dirt from damaging the furniture while showcasing the wood’s natural beauty. For the best results, look for a sealer that is UV resistant to prevent yellowing after years of sun exposure.
3. Varnish It
Another option similar to sealing is varnishing your furniture. Like sealers, varnish is a clear protectant but it also adds a touch of shine to the piece to highlight the wood. Varnish produces a hard film on top of the wood for UV and moisture protection. Because of this, it typically needs to be applied more frequently than sealant. For the best results look for a spar or marine varnish for a durable waterproof option.
When considering to paint, varnish, or seal your furniture, always refer to the manufacturer instructions first as applying paint or sealing may void the warranty.
4. Cover It
A simple way to protect your furniture without altering it is to keep it covered. Covering the furniture will keep it protected from both moisture from rain or snow as well as UV rays during the summer. There are a number of ways to provide coverage. Place your furniture under a pergola, gazebo, or market umbrella and enjoy relaxing shade during hot days, or use snug furniture covers when not in use.
For more information on why it is important to cover your furniture all year long, check out our blog, 4 Reasons Why Should Cover Your Patio Furniture (Even During the Summer).
5. Clean It
A little routine maintenance can go a long way. When it comes to furniture damage, a common culprit is moisture. If grime builds up on furniture surfaces, it can trap the moisture which leads to mildew and rot as it builds up. To prevent this, occasionally wipe down and dust your outdoor furniture the same way you would with indoor furniture.
Wood patio furniture is a wonderful way to add style to your outdoor spaces and enjoy the outdoors. Fortunately, keeping it in tip-top shape is simple. Follow these easy tips to keep your furniture strong and stylish season after season.
Need help choosing the right wood furniture for your space? Check out our blog, Comparing Wood Types for Outdoor Furniture.
