Best Finish For Outdoor Cedar Furniture

Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor furniture due to its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to decay. However, to protect your cedar furniture from the elements and maintain its appearance, it’s essential to apply a proper finish. There are many different types of finishes available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the best finish for your cedar furniture depends on factors such as the intended use, desired look, and level of maintenance you’re willing to commit to.

Oil-Based Finishes

Oil-based finishes, such as linseed oil, tung oil, and teak oil, are known for their penetrating properties. They soak into the wood, enhancing its natural color and providing a protective barrier against moisture and UV rays. These finishes offer a natural look and feel, allowing the wood’s grain to show through.

Oil-based finishes typically require multiple coats for optimal protection and can take several days to dry fully. They also need regular reapplication, usually once or twice a year, to maintain their effectiveness. While these finishes are generally considered environmentally friendly, some oil-based products may contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful to the environment.

Water-Based Finishes

Water-based finishes are becoming increasingly popular due to their low VOC content and fast drying times. They are typically formulated with acrylic or polyurethane resins and are available in a range of finishes, including matte, satin, and gloss.

Water-based finishes provide good protection against UV rays, moisture, and dirt. They are also easy to apply and clean up. However, water-based finishes may not penetrate as deeply as oil-based finishes, and they may not be as durable.

Solid Color Stains

If you prefer a solid color finish, solid color stains are a good option. They are available in a wide range of colors and can be used to change the appearance of cedar furniture or simply enhance its natural color. Solid color stains are typically formulated with oil or water-based resins.

Solid color stains provide good protection against UV rays and weather damage, but they require careful application to avoid streaking or uneven coverage. Like other finishes, solid color stains need occasional reapplication to maintain their effectiveness.

Choosing the Right Finish

The best finish for your outdoor cedar furniture depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Consider these factors:

Intended use: Will the furniture be used for casual or formal dining, lounging, or storage?
Desired look: Do you want a natural, oiled look or a more polished, stained finish?
Level of maintenance: Are you willing to apply a finish regularly or do you prefer a low-maintenance option?
Climate: How harsh is the climate in your area? Consider the amount of sun exposure and rainfall.

For heavily used or exposed furniture, it is generally recommended to choose a durable finish that offers good protection against the elements, such as a high-quality oil-based finish or a solid color stain. For lightly used furniture or pieces that are covered during inclement weather, a less durable finish might suffice.

If you are unsure about which finish to choose, consult with a professional paint or stain specialist. They can provide advice based on your specific situation and help you choose the best finish for your outdoor cedar furniture.