How to Waterproof Wood Furniture for Outdoors
Imagine investing in beautiful wooden pieces to adorn your outdoor space, only to find them deteriorating at an alarming rate. Rain, humidity, and the unrelenting sun can easily turn outdoor wooden furniture into a sorry sight. But by taking the necessary steps to safeguard your wood furniture from the elements, you can say goodbye to the worries of water damage and enjoy your cherished pieces for many years.
Risks Associated with Non-Waterproofed Wood Furniture
Leaving furniture unprotected outside exposes it to a variety of all-too-common risks. Some of these risks include:
Rot: Without a waterproof barrier, moisture seeps into the wood fibers to create the perfect breeding ground for rot-causing fungi. The once-sturdy legs of your favorite wooden chair can gradually weaken and become vulnerable to collapse.
Warping: Exposure to fluctuating humidity levels can make wood items expand and contract. Over time, this leads to unsightly warping causing furniture to change shape.
Mold and Mildew Growth: The combination of moisture and warmth is an open invitation for mold and mildew to set up camp on your precious furniture. These fungi not only mar the appearance of your outdoor oasis but can also pose health risks to you and your guests.
Discoloration: The vibrant hues of your wood furniture can fade into a dull, lackluster appearance when exposed to prolonged sunlight. The natural beauty you once admired gets gradually replaced by a weathered, worn-out look.
Deterioration: When left unprotected, wood furniture is more susceptible to overall deterioration. Constant exposure to the elements weakens the wood fibers, causing splintering, cracking, and an overall loss of structural integrity. Beautiful outdoor furniture sets can quickly transform into a decrepit eyesore.
Waterproofing Methods for Outdoor Furniture
It is evident that neglecting proper waterproofing measures for your wood furniture can lead to a litany of issues. Whether your furniture is crafted from naturally water-resistant woods like teak or not, there are still effective measures you can take. Some top coat options that can preserve outdoor wood’s beauty are:
Polyurethane
Polyurethane is a versatile and popular choice for waterproofing wood furniture. It's like a reliable shield that not only preserves but also enhances the longevity and beauty of your wood items. It is essential to grasp the distinction between interior and exterior polyurethane and what they're each meant for.
Interior polyurethane is specifically formulated for use on wood furniture and surfaces within the confines of your home. On the flip side, exterior polyurethane withstands the unforgiving outdoor elements. It includes unique additives that protect your furniture from the effects of UV rays, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
Varnish
The sun's harsh rays can cause discoloration and damage after a long time. Varnish acts as a barrier; it offers excellent UV protection so your furniture retains its vibrant beauty for longer periods. Unlike some other sealants, varnish has the unique ability to penetrate the wood fibers. This deep penetration enhances the bond between the varnish and the wood.
When selecting varnish for your outdoor wood furniture, keep the following factors in mind:
Minimal Color-Changing Effects: If you're concerned about color alteration, opt for a 'catalyzed' varnish. This type of varnish minimizes undesirable changes in color so the natural tones of the wood remain largely unaffected.
UV Resistance: Look for varnishes made for outdoor use, with UV inhibitors in their formulation. These varnishes provide enhanced protection against sun-induced fading and wood furniture will maintain its original charm.
Lacquer
Composed predominantly of alcohol-dissolved shellac, lacquer offers a glossy finish that enhances the natural beauty of the wood while protecting it against water. The alcohol solvent evaporates rapidly, leaving behind a smooth, shiny layer. This glossy appeal adds a touch of elegance to any wood item.
When it comes to durability, lacquer has an edge over varnish. Lacquer forms a hard and durable protective coating on the wood surface. It provides excellent resistance to scratches, moisture, and general wear and tear. This durability makes it particularly suitable for high-traffic areas and furniture that undergoes frequent use.
Lacquer is generally the better product in terms of water resistance while varnish is considered the preferred option for protecting against the sun's rays.
Oils
Wood oils such as teak oil, polymerized linseed oil, or tung oil are great options for waterproofing outdoor wood furniture. These oils penetrate the wood while nourishing and moisturizing it. Benefits of using oils include:
Deep Penetration: Oils penetrate deep into the wood and intensify its natural beauty as well as give it a perfect waterproof surface.
Natural Finish: Oiled surfaces retain a natural appearance, showcasing the wood's character and grain.
Maintenance-Friendly: Maintaining oiled wood surfaces is a simple process that involves regular reapplication of the oil.
Tips for Protecting Outdoor Wood Furniture
To safeguard the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your furniture, take proactive measures to protect it from potential damage.
Invest in high-quality furniture covers that are made for outdoor use. These covers provide an extra layer of protection, shielding your furniture from rain, snow, dust, and other environmental factors when not in use.
Extended periods of direct sunlight lead to fading, drying out, and the brittleness of wood with time. To counter this, strategically position your furniture in shaded areas or employ the use of umbrellas, canopies, or pergolas to create protective shade when needed.
Perform regular inspections of your furniture to identify any signs of damage like rot, peeling finishes, or cracks. To avoid additional deterioration, swiftly address these concerns.
To Round Things Up
Some woods naturally possess water-resistant properties which might save you the effort of applying additional treatments. However, for other types of wood, proper waterproofing measures are crucial to ensure their longevity and protection. Understand the unique characteristics of your wood, and select the appropriate waterproofing finish to preserve it.
For those wood furniture that require an extra layer of protection from moisture, you have several options to choose from. Lacquer, polyurethane, varnish, and natural oils are all viable for waterproofing wood, creating a barrier that shields it from potential moisture-related harm.