Keep Calm! Summer is coming… The holiday season is over. Who else is getting ready for the summers already? For some of us, it means working out to get a fit summer body. We’ll try that too but summer for us is another word for outdoors. So, getting started with tidying up the garden and decorating it can serve both purposes (working out and getting outdoors ready for fun).
There are plenty of options for outdoor furniture material. For example, Wicker, Teak, Aluminum and Rope. You can go for what makes your heart sing. If you are anything like us, you’d stick to the *good old* outdoor wood furniture. But in that case, the first thing that comes to mind is how to waterproof wood furniture for outdoors.
Why is Waterproofing Wood Furniture important?
Wood furniture placed outdoors should be treated for weather resistance even if it is under the porch. Waterproofing wood furniture using quality finish will not only protect it from rotting but also increase it’s life span. Waterproofing furniture for outdoors may also be useful to protect its appearance. Using wood furniture outdoors is a luxury lifestyle. If properly cared for, it will last for decades.
What do You Need To Waterproof Wood Furniture?
- Sandpaper ( preferably 100 grit; no less than 80)
- Stiff-bristled brush( for dusting sawdust)
- Tack cloth (for cleaning the sanding dust)
- Sealant for waterproofing. (Marine Varnish or Outdoor oils)
- Spray gun or high-quality paintbrush (natural bristles)
- PPE (Personal Protection Equipment; face mask)
How to Waterproof Wood Furniture For Outdoors?
It is not as hard as you would imagine. It only requires you to follow few simple steps.
Step 1:
The first step is to sand the furniture to 100 Grit. It is necessary to break the sharp edges. This means that the edges of the furniture are “rolled” or “curved”. No surface on the furniture should remain sharp/pointy. If you are renewing old furniture, be sure to follow this step carefully. Breaking the edges is so important because it helps the finish to adhere to the edges. The finish doesn’t “open up” easily if it is to come in contact with another object.
Step 2:
This is essentially “part b” of step one. You need to blow away the sawdust from the furniture using a tack cloth. It is very important to remove the residue of the sanding from the surface of the furniture. Any leftover traces of saving dust on the surface can mess up with the perfect finish. The furniture surface should be absolutely clean to be ready for the finish
Step 3:
Now, you are ready to apply finish to your furniture. When you are applying your finish, start upside down. So, the upside of the furniture is the last to be finished. Whether you’re using a brush to apply the finish or spraying it, turn the furniture piece upside down first and finish it first. When you turn the furniture back to upright position, apply the finish to backside first. So that, if the finish runs or gets over-sprayed, it stays “hidden” at the back.
Step 4:
Leave the furniture to cure for at least three days before starting to use it. If there are cushions to be placed on it, do not place them for a few days.
Steps one and two can be repeated after step three. That means you can paint or spray the first coating of the finish and then re-sand and dust to go ahead for a second coat. If you have more energy and time to do it, feel free to go for a third and a fourth coat. However, remember to repeat each step for every time.
What Finish is Good to Waterproof Wood Furniture?
For wood furniture, best finish to use is marine varnish or outdoor oil. Marine varnish is a high-quality solid finish. It is designed for boats and marine surfaces. It is a strong water repellent. So, if you’re thinking about how to waterproof wood furniture for outdoors, think marine varnish. It will provide long-lasting protection from the outdoor weather. Marine varnish gives a satin or gloss finish to the furniture. When you need to reapply the finish (in case it gets worn), re-sanding the furniture will be required.
The other alternative is natural outdoor oils such as linseed oil or tung oil. These are designed for the outdoors. It is not only waterproof but also provides protection against the UV. It safeguards the wooden surfaces from the effects of temperature changes. In addition, it is also mildew resistant which is an ideal characteristic for outdoor furniture.
How Often Should You Waterproof Wood Furniture?
If your wood furniture is in a well protected area, once a year is enough. However, if it is exposed to outdoor weather elements, you should waterproof your furniture twice a year or even more often for maximum protection. You can also carry out the process if your wood furniture has started to look dull.
If you are planning to place wood furniture outdoors, it is time to waterproof it. If you are looking for new furniture for outdoors, to save you time you’ll spend in research. Take it as a pro-tip, coming from someone who has literally dived into the internet to find the best place to get outdoor furniture. Or just an advice for you to take a look yourself. At HC Luxury Outdoor, you get free cushions, same-day shipping and the best part! Lifetime Replacement Parts!!! Don’t just take our word for it, see for yourself. Have fun getting outdoors-ready.
