30 / 08 / 2024
5 Tips for protecting outdoor wood
Wood is a living material that changes over time. Therefore, it is of vital importance to know how to treat, protect and pamper it so that the deterioration and use of wood does not alter its natural state. However, it is clear that protecting the wood of furniture, floors or any other surface is not an easy task, and even less to protect outdoor wood. For this reason, we give you 5 tips so that your outdoor furniture and surfaces remain protected and intact from day one.
1. Analyse the characteristics of your outdoor wood
There is a good chance that your wooden garden chairs, decking on the terrace or wooden table on the balcony will undergo changes with continuous exposure to adverse weather conditions, such as high temperatures, rain, high humidity or long hours of sunshine. To prevent the wood from wearing out, losing colour or altering its functional properties, it is crucial to know the type of wood you want to treat (pine, walnut, oak, etc.), the use, the location and the conditions to which it will be exposed.
2. Select the specific product for outdoor wood
Once you have assessed the type of wood, its specific use and the environment in which it is located, you should choose the most suitable products or varnishes:
Decorative protectors
If you want to protect and beautify outdoor furniture that will be exposed to the sun, such as chairs or garden furniture, a water-based protective and decorative Lasur for all types of wood is the best choice.
Outdoor Decking Protectors
When it comes to protecting outdoor wood, such as wooden decking, even of tropical origin, it is important to select a product that not only beautifies, but also nourishes and protects the wood against UV rays, preventing the wood from ageing before you know it.
Extreme Weather Varnishes
These coatings are formulated to withstand the most demanding conditions such as snow, ice, sun, wind, etc. In this cases, a finish with advanced features and UV protection is recommended.
3. Prepare the wood before the application
Before applying the chosen product to the exterior wood, the preparation phase is a simple and straightforward process that should not be omitted. All you need to do is ensure that the wood is clean of dust and dirt to facilitate good penetration of the product.
4. Apply the product properly
The application of the products may vary depending on the type of product or varnish chosen. In all applications, it is recommended to follow the instructions for use, respecting the drying time (normally 1-2 hours approx.) and carrying out a recoating process if necessary.
5. Perform maintenance
Regular maintenance and revitalisation of the wood is highly recommended. In most cases, it is sufficient to use the same product or varnish that you previously applied to enhance its natural colour and appearance. However, you can also use specific products for this purpose, such as oils specially formulated to protect, nourish and embellish wood. A good oil should have a high penetrating power and boost the natural tones by enhancing its natural appearance, colouring it and protecting it against greying.
IkiDecor brand of Irurena Group