How to Weatherproof Wicker

Natural wicker furniture is made by weaving the stems of the rattan plant around a metal or wooden framework. Since rattan is an organic substance, water and extreme heat or cold will damage your wicker, rotting the rattan and warping the framework. To make your wicker outdoor furniture last for years, bring it inside during the harsher months and weatherproof it to make it more water-resistant during sudden summer squalls.

Vacuum
Wicker furniture
Oil-based wood primer
Indoor/outdoor oil-based, semi-gloss house paint
Marine varnish
Paintbrush or compressor sprayer

Instructions

- 1
  Vacuum the furniture thoroughly using an upholstery brush to remove all the dust from the crevices. Make sure the furniture is dry.
- 2
  Apply two coats of primer to the furniture. Coat all surfaces completely, including the bottoms of the feet. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly.
- 3
  Apply two light coats of paint to the furniture. Coat all surfaces completely with paint and let the paint dry.
- 4
  Apply two light coats of Marine varnish to the piece. Allow the varnish to dry thoroughly between coats. Let the furniture dry completely before use.

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