Nothing elevates an outdoor space like beautiful wood furniture. Whether it’s a rustic teak bench, a sleek acacia dining table, or a cedar porch swing, wood offers a timeless, natural look that’s hard to beat. But as much as it enhances your patio or deck, wood furniture also needs protection—especially during the summer months when sun, heat, humidity, and sudden storms can take a toll.
If you want to keep your outdoor pieces looking great and lasting for years, here’s how to shield them from the harshest season.
1. Understand Your Wood Type
Not all outdoor wood is created equal. Some species are naturally more weather-resistant than others:
- Teak, cedar, acacia, and eucalyptus: These hardwoods are more resistant to rot, insects, and moisture—but still require care to prevent fading and cracking.
- Softwoods like pine: Often used in lower-cost outdoor furniture, these need more frequent sealing and maintenance.
Knowing what you’re working with helps you choose the right protection strategy.
2. Clean Before You Protect
Start summer off fresh with a deep clean to remove winter grime, mildew, and debris:
- Mix mild soap and warm water, or use a specialized wood cleaner.
- Scrub gently with a soft-bristle brush, working with the grain.
- Rinse thoroughly and allow the wood to dry completely—at least 24 hours in warm, dry weather—before applying any sealants or oils.
Avoid power washing, which can damage the grain or leave grooves in softer wood.
3. Apply a Protective Finish
Once the furniture is clean and dry, it’s time to protect the surface. Depending on your wood type and desired look, you have a few options:
🛡️ Wood Sealers
- Penetrate the wood to protect against moisture, mold, and mildew.
- Often clear or lightly tinted to preserve the wood’s natural color.
- Best for areas with high humidity or frequent rain.
🌞 UV-Protective Finishes
- Prevent fading and greying caused by the sun’s rays.
- Choose a UV-blocking oil, water-based sealant, or wood-specific outdoor varnish.
🌿 Wood Oils (like teak or linseed oil)
- Enhance the natural grain and color of the wood.
- Need reapplication every few weeks or months, depending on exposure.
- Best for maintaining a warm, natural finish.
Pro tip: Test a small, hidden area first to ensure you like the color and sheen of the finish before applying it to the whole piece.
4. Keep It Covered (When You’re Not Using It)
Sun and rain are wood’s biggest enemies. When your furniture isn’t in use:
- Use breathable outdoor furniture covers that repel water but allow airflow to prevent mold.
- Avoid plastic tarps, which trap moisture and promote mildew.
- If possible, move smaller pieces into a covered area like a porch, garage, or shed during storms or long periods of disuse.
5. Raise It Off the Ground
Standing water can wick up through wood legs and cause swelling, rot, or mold.
- Use rubber or metal leg caps, furniture feet, or risers to keep pieces elevated.
- Place furniture on hard surfaces like patios or decks—not directly on soil or grass.
6. Reapply Protection Regularly
Outdoor wood care isn’t one-and-done. Make it a seasonal habit:
- Clean and inspect furniture at the start and end of summer.
- Reapply oils or sealants every few months, or as soon as water stops beading on the surface.
- Touch up scratches or worn spots immediately to prevent water infiltration.
7. Don’t Forget Cushions and Hardware
Wood isn’t the only thing exposed to the elements.
- Use quick-dry, UV-resistant cushions and store them indoors or in a waterproof box when not in use.
- Check metal bolts or fasteners for rust and tighten them periodically to prevent wobbling or warping.
Final Thought
With just a little care and attention, your outdoor wood furniture can stay strong and beautiful all summer—and for many summers to come. Regular maintenance not only protects your investment, but also helps you enjoy a clean, comfortable, and stylish outdoor space, no matter what the weather brings.