About Wooden Outdoor Furniture

Wood

• Consider the climate when purchasing outdoor wooden furniture as well as the amount of care that will be needed to keep the furniture looking good. Brazilian cherry is a hard wood that is very durable and can withstand most climates for many years. Cedar is one of the most popular kinds of wood used for outdoor furniture because it is insect resistant and can last up to 25 years even as it weathers. Cypress is commonly found in outdoor furniture because it does not age or crack with time. It is a lighter shade wood that many people enjoy and it holds paint and varnish well. Mahogany makes for a deep, rich looking piece that won't warp over time. Teak is a porous wood that, when left untreated, can hold up in any weather for 75 years or more.

Care

• Each type of wood requires a different kind of cleaning technique, depending on the look you are trying to achieve. Teak becomes gray when weathered if left untreated, but will hold its durability if left naked. Teak can be scrubbed with a soapy brush and rinsed with water. Each cleaning removes some of the grain however, which will eventually reflect on the longevity of the piece. All untreated wood will change over time if left outdoors. Cedar turns a milky white color, while mahogany develops a silver patina. When sealed with paint or varnish, the wood furniture can simply be wiped off with a damp cloth.

Clear Protection

• Varnish or polyurethane can be used on outdoor wooden furniture to help maintain its natural look. Weather and usage will take its toll on the layers of sealer and will require regular maintenance to retain the sheen and protection. Prior to applying a sealant, clean the surface of the chair or table well and allow it to dry completely. Sand rough spots with light 120-grit sandpaper. Apply the varnish or polyurethane with a bristle or foam paint brush and allow each coat to dry completely before putting on another layer. Lightly sand with steel wool between each coat. The more layers you apply, the longer it will hold up. Often spot reapplication can help to preserve the sealant, but the furniture will need to be stripped completely every four or five years.

Environment

• While many people consider wood furniture to be environmentally responsible, furniture manufacturers have been known to strip forests to make their products. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international organization that certifies wood used from responsible manufacturers. Furniture approved by the FSC will be noted with a sticker on the bottom of each piece. Recycled or reclaimed wood is becoming more popular as creative furniture makers fashion tables and chairs from deconstruction jobs and recycled wooden furniture, pallets and barns.

Composites

• Outdoor furniture made from composite wood materials is typically less expensive and requires less maintenance than real wood. It offers the look of solid wood without the labor and environmental concerns. Made from sawdust and plastic particles, composites are widely available through a range of web providers and retailers. It is durable, inexpensive and virtually maintenance-free.