Outdoor furniture timber guide: how to achieve the perfect finish

Choosing timber for your outdoor furniture is the smart, sustainable choice. Whether for a garden table or picnic benches in a public park, timber brings longevity to a project while being a natural, renewable resource which is ideal for eco-conscious projects. But how long your timber furniture lasts has a lot to do with the finishes you apply.

From style to protection, here is our guide to getting your timber furniture finishes just right.

Start With the Right Timber

Different timbers bring different qualities to outdoor furniture. Some hardwoods (such as Cumaru and Opepe) are naturally durable, while some softwoods (such as Western Red Cedar) bring better workability and excellent resistance to weathering. Choosing a durable, long-lasting timber species means you do not always need to apply a finish at all, with durability class 1 timbers able to withstand decades of use outside without a hitch.

Aside from those we have already mentioned, a few of our top picks for low-maintenance outdoor timbers include Ipe, Iroko, Opepe and Ekki.

Choose the Right Finish

When protecting your outdoor furniture, you can choose from a wide range of finishes. Each brings different benefits to the timber and will alter the look of your furniture, so get to grips with the different types before making the right choice for your wood:

• Oils, such as teak or linseed oil, nourish the wood from within while boosting resistance to water for added longevity. They also enhance the natural colour of your chosen timber species without changing it entirely. They are easy to apply and recoat, making them a popular choice.
• Stains add colour to your timber while letting the grain shine through, which is perfect for weathered woods which need a natural-looking lift. They also provide UV protection to slow down weathering and can bring durability benefits.
• Timber paints bring a bolder look to outdoor furniture and give you more control over the style of your pieces. They also offer excellent coverage and protection, though they do conceal the natural grain.
• UV-protection oils create a shield between your timber and the sun, thus slowing the weathering process and preserving the original colour for longer.

Before Finishes: Prepare the Surface

Before applying any finish, preparation is key. For furniture which has been outdoors, clean away dirt, algae or mildew with a cloth or soft-bristled brush. You can use soapy water for tough dirt, though be careful not to use a harsh cleaner which will strip the timber of its natural oils. Allow the surface to dry thoroughly.

Unless you are applying finishes to virgin timber, it is also a smart idea to sand the wood. This will help remove any surface-level paint or stains, helping the finish to penetrate the timber evenly for a smoother, more professional result.

Tips for Applying Finishes

When it comes to applying your chosen finish, take your time for the best results. Always work with the grain of the timber to avoid streaks and uneven coverage. Use a good-quality brush or cloth for oils, and apply in thin, even coats rather than one heavy layer; this allows the timber to absorb the product properly and prevents peeling or patchiness. For stains or paints, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between coats. Letting each layer cure properly will give you a more durable finish for long-lasting outdoor furniture.

Maintain the Finish

Even the best finishes need upkeep. Plan to reapply oils or stains once a year, or more often if your furniture is in exposed areas (think by the coast or in full sun). Pair your finish applications with regular cleaning for benches, tables and chairs which look as good as new year after year.

Find Exterior Furniture at EcoChoice

At EcoChoice, we supply a wide range of timber furniture using durable, FSC-certified timber species. We are also happy to offer more advice on maintaining your furniture, giving you tailored tips to suit your species and application.

To order outdoor furniture, get in touch with our team.