How Do You Protect Outdoor Wood Furniture

How to Protect Outdoor Wood Furniture

Your outdoor wood furniture is an essential part of making the most of your outdoor space. It provides a comfortable and stylish place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. However, wood furniture is susceptible to damage from the elements, so it's important to take steps to protect it if you want it to last for many years to come.

In this article, we'll discuss the essential aspects of protecting your outdoor wood furniture. We'll cover everything from choosing the right type of wood to applying protective coatings and storing your furniture properly during the off-season.

Choosing the Right Type of Wood

The type of wood you choose for your outdoor furniture will have a big impact on its durability. Some woods are more resistant to rot and decay than others, and some are better able to withstand the sun's UV rays. For outdoor furniture, you'll want to choose a wood that is both durable and weather-resistant.

Some of the best woods for outdoor furniture include teak, cedar, and redwood. These woods are all naturally resistant to rot and decay, and they can withstand the sun's UV rays without fading or warping. If you're looking for a more affordable option, you can also choose pressure-treated lumber. Pressure-treated lumber is treated with chemicals that help to protect it from rot and decay, but it's not as durable as teak, cedar, or redwood.

Applying Protective Coatings

Once you've chosen the right type of wood for your outdoor furniture, you'll need to apply a protective coating to help protect it from the elements. There are a variety of different protective coatings available, so you'll need to choose one that is appropriate for the type of wood you're using.

Some of the most common types of protective coatings for outdoor wood furniture include:

Oil-based finishes
Water-based finishes
Polyurethane
Lacquer

Oil-based finishes are the most durable type of protective coating, but they can be difficult to apply and can take a long time to dry. Water-based finishes are easier to apply and dry more quickly, but they're not as durable as oil-based finishes. Polyurethane is a clear finish that is very durable and resistant to water and UV rays. Lacquer is a high-gloss finish that is very durable and easy to clean.

Storing Your Furniture Properly

When you're not using your outdoor wood furniture, it's important to store it properly to protect it from the elements. If you have the space, you can store your furniture in a garage or shed. If you don't have the space, you can cover your furniture with a tarp or furniture cover.

If you're storing your furniture in a garage or shed, make sure that the area is dry and well-ventilated. If you're storing your furniture outside, make sure that the tarp or furniture cover is secure and that it won't blow away in the wind.

By following these tips, you can help to protect your outdoor wood furniture and extend its lifespan for many years to come.