How to Revive Your Outdoor Timber Furniture:

A Complete Guide

Outdoor timber furniture adds a natural charm to any garden or patio. However, exposure to the elements can lead to wear and tear over time. Reviving your timber furniture is not only about restoring its beauty but also extending its lifespan. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process:

Tools and Materials Needed

To revive your outdoor timber furniture, you will need the following tools and materials:

• Pressure washer
• Deck cleaner
• Scrub brush
• Garden hose
• Sandpaper or power sander
• Stain or finish of your choice
• Paintbrush or roller
• Protective gear (gloves, goggles, mask)

Depending on the condition of your furniture and personal preference, you may also require wood stripper, wood filler or replacement timber pieces.

Step-by-Step Guide to Revive Your Outdoor Timber Furniture

Step 1: Clean the Furniture

Begin by thoroughly cleaning your furniture to remove dirt, grime, and any old finishes. Scrub the surface gently using a soft brush, then rinse with clean water and allow the furniture to dry completely.

Wood Strippers: (If required)

CUTEK® Wood Stripper is a powerful and user-friendly paint and surface coating stripper. It is the smart alternative to conventional strippers that use dangerous chemicals (such as methylene chloride, NMP, etc.). CUTEK® Wood Stripper is suitable for removing multiple layers of the most commonly used wood coatings such as latex paints, stains, varnishes, linseed/natural oils, acrylics and other film forming coatings. It is also effective at removing coatings from metal, brick, and masonry surfaces. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's application instructions for optimal results and safety precautions.

Wood Cleaners:

CUTEK® Quickclean is the perfect way to regularly keep all your timber clean, and it prepares timber to optimise the performance of maintenance coats of your preferred finish. CUTEK® Quickclean is a powerful general-purpose outdoor cleaner that removes dirt grease and grime from all your exterior hard surfaces. CUTEK® Quickclean is a concentrate that should be diluted with water. The dilution will vary depending on the build-up of dirt/grease on the surface. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's application instructions for optimal results and safety precautions.

Make sure all traces of the cleaner are removed to prevent any residue from affecting the application of the stain or sealant in later steps.

Allow the timber to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

CUTEK® Restore will clean and prepare old, greyed off, or stained timber. It is a powerful product that counteracts the weathering process by eliminating years of sun discolouration and silvering from all species of wood. CUTEK® Restore brightens, cleans stubborn stains, removes grey, and restores wood surfaces back to the appearance of new wood. It is also effective in removing stains caused by tannins, water, iron, resins, mold, and fungus. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's application instructions for optimal results and safety precautions. Ensure the timber is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Sanding

Once the furniture is dry, sanding is crucial to smooth out the surface and remove any previous finishes. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper (80) to tackle rough areas, then move to a medium grit (120), and finally, finish with a fine grit (220) for a smooth surface. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches.

Step 3: Choose the Right Exterior Oil

Selecting the appropriate exterior oil is essential to protect and enhance the beauty of your timber furniture. We recommend the following Exterior Oils for outdoor furniture:

Whittle Waxes Bangkirai Oil

This oil is perfect for extending the life of exterior timbers like Jarrah, Meranti, and Merbau. It provides long-term protection against the elements, making it ideal for decks and garden furniture. However, note that its heavy pigmentation can mask the wood grain.

Benefits: Eco-friendly, safe for children’s toys, suitable for both horizontal and vertical surfaces, and beehive safe.

Sun Protection Oil

Designed to combat UV damage, this oil enhances the natural beauty of timber with a clear finish. It’s highly water-resistant and protects against mould, algae, and fungal infections.

Benefits: Ideal for garden furniture and vertical surfaces like cladding, doors, and pergolas. Not suitable for horizontal surfaces such as decks.

Whittle Waxes Teak Oil

This emulsion is excellent for outdoor furniture and marine applications, providing protection against moisture and UV rays. It dries quickly and delivers a satin-matte finish.

Benefits: Safe for children’s toys and the environment, suitable for beehives and outdoor furniture.

Step 4: Apply the Exterior Oil

Using a paintbrush or roller, apply the chosen exterior oil evenly across the timber. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times and apply additional coats as needed. Usually, two coats are sufficient for optimal protection. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.

Step 5: Maintenance

Regular maintenance, such as reapplying oil every six to twelve months and keeping your furniture clean, will help maintain its beauty and durability.

Reviving your outdoor timber furniture is a rewarding project that can significantly extend its lifespan and enhance its appearance. By following this complete guide and choosing the right outdoor furniture finishes like Whittle Waxes Bangkirai Oil, Sun Protection Oil, or Teak Oil, you can ensure your furniture stays beautiful and protected for years to come.

Ready to bring your outdoor timber furniture back to life? Start today and enjoy the beauty of naturally preserved timber in your garden or patio.