Best Sealer For Outdoor Wood Furniture

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Wood Furniture can be a great addition to any home. And if you care about the style, functionality, and durability of your outdoor wood furniture, sealing it is an excellent step in the right direction.

If you’re looking for the best sealer for outdoor wood furniture, your search ends here.

We have scoured the web for hours and left no stone unturned when compiling this best sealer for the outdoor Furniture list.

The best outdoor wood sealer should protect the wood from elements and prolong its life. Take a look at the popular options to help narrow down your choices. 

What Is a Wood Sealer?

Wood sealer is a type of protective coating that is used to seal the surface of wood to protect it from moisture, weathering, and other environmental factors. There are many different types of wood sealers, including oil-based, water-based, and polyurethane-based sealers.

The primary function of wood sealer is to form a barrier between the wood and the environment. When wood is exposed to moisture, it can absorb water and expand, which can cause it to warp, crack, or split over time.

By sealing the wood, the sealer prevents water from penetrating the surface of the wood, which helps to prevent these problems from occurring.

Wood sealer can also help to protect the wood from UV radiation, which can cause the wood to fade or discolor over time. Many sealers contain UV inhibitors that help to prevent this from happening.

The way that wood sealer works depends on the type of sealer being used.

Oil-based sealers work by penetrating the pores of the wood and filling them with oil. This helps to repel water and other liquids from the surface of the wood. Water-based sealers work in a similar way, but they use water as the carrier instead of oil.

Polyurethane-based sealers work by forming a hard, durable layer on the surface of the wood. This layer helps to protect the wood from physical damage and also helps to prevent water and other liquids from penetrating the surface.

Our Top Picks

Best Wood Sealer For Outdoor Furniture Reviews

1. Best Outdoor Furniture Sealer – Ready Seal 112 1-Gallon Can Natural Cedar

If you feel it’s time to give your outdoor wood furniture a new look and protect it from moisture, harmful UV rays, mold, and mildew, Ready Seal 112 1-Gallon Can Exterior Stain and Sealer could be the answer you’ve been searching for far and wide. 

Ready Seal is a world-class producer of wood sealants, and this unique product is the best sealant for outdoor wood furniture.

This wood stain is just fantastic as it gives you a smooth, uniform coat. In addition, the patio furniture sealer is easy to use.  So, you can effortlessly use it even if you’re not a pro.

You do not require a primer. However, when you first apply this Ready Seal stain and sealer, it’ll be very dark and take two weeks to reach its authentic color. 

Apply this exterior wood sealer to freshly painted or stained surfaces only because it won’t penetrate well if you use it on a previously sealed wooden surface.

You can use a roller, high-quality brush, or sprayer to put on the sealer. It does not require back brushing and does not leave runs, lap marks,  or streaks.

There is no need for a wet-line application because this outdoor wood furniture sealer will mix itself, and you can use it in any temperature range. Besides, you don’t have to dilute or thin this wood sealant for outdoor furniture before spraying.

What I Liked Most

• Requires no primer
• You can use it on any temperature range
• You won’t struggle with runs or streaks
• Best spray sealer for outdoor wood furniture
• Gives you an excellent uniform coverage 

What Could Be Improved

• It can get oily after sealing

2. Best Oil-based Wood Sealer – Star Brite Premium Golden Teak Oil

Star Brite Premium Golden Teak Oil is one of the best oil-based wood sealers you can use to seal exterior wood. It is one of the best wood stains in the market, and you can use it on teak and other fine woods.

It contains advanced Tung oil polymers to offer utmost protection for teak and other outdoor wood furniture. The outdoor wood sealer has excellent UV absorbers to prevent outdoor wood from destructive UV rays, fading, warping, and weathering.

It dries fast and is easy to use even if you are an amateur. You can use teak oil on natural wood, outdoor wood products, boats, wood deck, and other fine woods.

This outdoor wood sealer is an ultra-refined formula that offers teak a natural, durable, warm golden color.

Apply Teak Oil exterior varnish to dry teak surfaces completely using a clean, lint-free cloth, sponge, or a high-quality brush.

To optimize oil penetration into dry wood surface, apply following the direction of the wood grain. After five minutes, use a clean cloth to remove any excess oil from the treated wooden surface.

Star Brite Premium Golden Teak Oil is the ultimate marine teak sealer as it preserves the natural beauty of teak and does not contain turpentine or mineral spirits. 

What I Liked Most

• Contains advanced tung oil polymers for maximum, durable protection. 
• Dries quickly so you can finish your sealing job and move on to something else.
• Excellent for teak furniture and other outdoor wood furniture
• Highlights the natural wood grain and elegant teak color

What Could Be Improved

• May solidify fast, so you have to keep it covered.

3. Best Clear Wood Sealer for Outdoor Furniture – SEAL-ONCE MARINE

If you’re looking for a protective sealant that is low in VOCs, this product could be the answer. Use it to Protect wood in wet and high-moisture areas from UV damage and unwanted moisture. 

These outdoor wood sealers will give your wood dock, pier, or retaining wall the best protection to withstand years of activity so they look beautiful year after year.

Seal-Once Marine is one of the best outdoor wood sealers as it allows the wood’s natural grain to shine through. You can use it on bare wood, and you do not have to wait for the wood to completely dry before using it.

You can use this exterior penetrating wood stain in temperatures as low as 45 degrees Fahrenheit instead of some deck stains, which recommend that they be applied when the temperature is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

You can use it for protecting wood surfaces in high moisture areas against moisture damage. SEAL-ONCE Deck stain creates a waterproof barrier that protects the untreated wood while also improving its appearance.

You can use a brush, roller, or sprayer to create a non-toxic defensive coating safe for pets, humans, and plants. This weather sealant for wood is also low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it an excellent eco-friendly option.

This wood stain is a clear toner with a wide range of beautiful wood tones. It’s a great option for waterproofing wood. A gallon will cover approximately 350 square feet.

What I Liked Most

• Non-hazardous formula. As a result, it is safe for pets, the environment, and humans.
• Comes in multiple colors, so you can quickly get a perfect match for your unique project. 
• Easy to use even if you have zero experience
• Usable on different surfaces and still get pro results. 

What Could Be Improved

• You cannot apply it under direct sunlight, just as with other wood sealants.  

4. Best Waterproof Wood Sealer – Thompsons Waterseal 41851 Gl STN

Since the 1920s, THOMPSONS has been developing superior wood sealants to protect buildings from moisture damage,  mold and mildew,  and moss growth.  

They created a new transparent oil-based polyurethane that provides superb protection to outdoor wood furniture. It is the best outdoor wood sealer for a good reason.

You can use it to seal outdoor wood furniture, and will help to restore the natural beauty of wood. The wood stain and sealer has a one-of-a-kind formulation that enables it to be waterproof for extended periods after the initial water beading.

The 041851-16 is available in multiple colors: woodland cedar, acorn brown, harvest gold, maple brown, and sequoia red. 

The sealer is blended with highly advanced polymers that provide a fade-resistant color. Moreover, the exterior varnish topcoat protects against mildew and UV damage. The wood stain is simple to apply, and you can use it on freshly cleaned damp wood.

If necessary, use a pressure washer to clean the wooden outdoor furniture before application. It is the best exterior wood sealer as you can use it on weathered wood, and it won’t change the wood’s natural color.

What I Liked Most

• Affordable, and you get value for your money
• Dries fast, thus reducing waiting time
•  UV and mildew resistant

What Could Be Improved

• Not entirely transparent
• Challenging to get it off a wooden surface

5. Best Water Sealant for Outdoor Wood Furniture – Waterlox TB 3809 25F

Waterlox Original Marine Sealer is the most trusted marine-grade sealant. This sealant absorbs deep within wooden surfaces to create a formidable shield against moisture, water, and mildew with minimum maintenance. 

The wood sealant for outdoor wooden furniture penetrates deep into the wood, leaving your surface with a renewed appearance like it’s been sanded and then oiled or waxed.

With minimal effort, this modern marvel can turn any dingy and discolored outdoor wooden furniture into a bright and shiny masterpiece. The exterior wood Sealer is a water-based marine sealant that’s easy to apply and non-toxic when cured. 

It penetrates the surface and creates a solid waterproof barrier over all cracks, creases, corners, joints, basically anywhere moisture could get in. The result? Long-lasting protection against dirt stains, mold growth, mildew development. It resists UV exposure too.

This wood sealer comes from natural materials referred to as Tung oil. Tung oil is derived from Tung tree nut, which was used in prehistoric China. It falls under the category of “drying oils,” meaning that it will completely dry to a hard finish.

When you want to make your outdoor wood look phenomenal again, this sealer will come in handy and make the outdoor product shiny again.

What I Liked Most

• Designed for maximum water resistance
• Manufactured from pure natural Tung oil, so it is non-poisonous when cured
• Creates a deep, nice shine
• Has excellent coverage
• Applicable over most sealers and stains

What Could Be Improved

• Usually necessitates buffing 
• Poisonous until fully cured

6. Best Exterior Wood Preservative for Furniture – Minwax 630510444

This water-based exterior penetrating stain contains UV inhibitors that minimize the sun’s graying and fading effects on your outdoor wood. The wood sealant also acts as a barrier against rain and moisture.

This spar varnish contains unique oils that enable the finish to expand and contract with timber as temperatures and seasons change.

You can use it to seal wood and surfaces such as doors, windows, trim, bathroom kitchen countertops, cabinets, and bar tops. Remove existing stain before applying the sealer. 

The clear sealer dries up in record time, and cleaning up is such a breeze with warm soapy water. It is specially designed for indoor wood and exterior surfaces that are prone to deterioration due to exposure to sunlight or moisture.

To get the best results, use a sponge or high-quality nylon brushes to apply the sealer to get the best results. For previously stained or sealed wood, lightly sand with 220 or higher grit sandpaper and wipe it down thoroughly.

Thoroughly mix the product before and during application. The first coat should be very light, and don’t be concerned about how it appears at this point. Just keep it thin and avoid overbrushing.

Wait at least two hours before applying the next coat. You will notice that each coat goes on easier as it builds, and any spots you may have missed will now vanish.

The sealer is one of the best exterior penetrating wood sealers because it requires no special skills to use it and it does not disappoint.

What I Liked Most

• Easy to apply and effortless to clean
• Safe for pets and the environment
• Dries up quickly

What Could Be Improved

• It yellows

7. Best Outdoor Furniture Stain and Sealer – THOMPSONS WATERSEAL TH.042851-16

Thomson’s Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Stain is the perfect way to seal and protect your deck, fence, or other outdoor furniture.

This wood sealant will keep out all of those elements that might cause damage if left unattended.  Apply it when the wood is clean and dry for optimal results. 

When facing a big project like protecting a large amount of deck railing from water damage, you need a product that will get the job done effectively in one coat – this outdoor wood stain and sealer does just that.

But don’t worry about being limited to just sealing your exterior wood – this waterproofer also protects against fading from sun exposure on patio furniture as well.

This patio furniture sealer is easy to apply and dries beautifully. It is effortless to use; you won’t battle with runs or dripping. You only need one coat to get a professional look on your outdoor furniture, but you can apply several coats if you wish. 

In any case, you were asking if you can put Thompson water seal over stained wood , then you got your answer.

What I Liked Most

• Has superb coverage
• One coat is enough to get pro results
• Easy to use and requires no special skills
• Transparent, so it lets the natural beauty of the wood shine through
• The best clear wood fence sealer

What Could Be Improved

• The color may not be very accurate

8. Best Outdoor Wood Table Sealer – Rain Guard Water Sealers SP-8002

This outdoor wood sealer does not alter the surface’s appearance, does not leave a white residue, and helps prevent efflorescence. Even better, it contains advanced UV stabilizers to ensure long-lasting, non-yellowing performance.

You can apply it on dry wood, untreated wood, natural wood, and other outdoor wood furniture to give them maximum UV protection.

You can also use it on vertical and horizontal surfaces. It dries clear with an unnoticeable natural finish and does not affect the surface’s appearance. 

The wood stain and sealer are simple to use and will offer you the best value for your hard-earned money. Above all, the sealer is environmentally friendly, and once applied, it requires no maintenance.

The sealer safeguards, restore, and prolong the life of your outdoor wood. Using this product, you save money, keep moisture, mold, and mildew away from your wooden structures and other surfaces, and protect the environment, pets, and humans.

What I Liked Most

• Aid in the prevention of thaw damage
• Protects against wind-driven rain
• A strong, long-lasting finish that won’t yellow
• Simple to clean with soap and water
• Helps to keep efflorescence, mold, and mildew at bay

What Could Be Improved

• You may need to apply several coats, but the results will be satisfactory

9. Best Eco-friendly Outdoor Wood Sealant – ANCHOR SEAL 2 Hybrid Log

Achor Seal 2 is a plant-derived polymer and wax mixture that prevents end checking and splitting on green logs and lumber. It regulates the moisture loss rate during air drying of hardwood, tropical hardwood decking, and softwood.

It’s a top-performance, low-cost option for sealing greenwood and freshly cut lumber.  You can use it on any hardwood or softwood species.

Since it’s water-based, it does not threaten pets, people, and the environment. It is simple to clean using soap and water and is available in clear and over thirty-five different colors.

Winterized formulas are also yours for the asking.  Coverage per gallon is 100 sq. ft. but may differ based on application method and wood type.

ANCHOR SEAL 2 is the best for protecting tropical hardwood deck end cuts. AS2 inhibits up to 90percent of end checking when applied generously to newly cut ends of exotic hardwoods such as ipe, Brazilian cherry, mahogany, teak, cumaru, and tigerwood.

So, it safeguards your valuable investment and prolongs the life of your outdoor wood. This eco-friendly stain is better than most oil-rubbed blends and it resists fungal decay, salt rot, insects, and worms. 

What I Liked Most

• Does an excellent job of sealing end grain checking
• No need for touch-ups after multiple coats have been applied

What Could Be Improved

• Slow to dry
• Not suitable for massive projects such as a deck or interior furniture

10. Best Spar Finish for Outdoor Wood – Varathane Exterior Water Based

Varathane Exterior Water Based Semi-Gloss Quart is an exterior wood sealant that comes in various finishes ranging from matte to glossy.

This wood sealant is a  water-based, non-yellowing Spar Varnish designed to provide exceptional UV protection, serviceability, and resistance to unforgiving elements.

It is a beautiful outdoor finish for picnic tables, potting benches, wooden furniture,  Adirondack chairs, and other outdoor wood projects.

It is simple to apply, easy to clean up with water, and dries quickly. You can rely on this product not to yellow over time.

It’s fantastic, even if it does require several coats based on the finish you want. It is very durable and weather resistant. You can use it on metal, and it will work excellently.

It produces no upsetting odor when applying, and you do not have to wear any mask during application. It’s safe for your pets and the environment. The sealant gives you a deep, rich color that will last for some time. It is scuff-resistant. 

What I Liked Most

• Friendly to the environment
• Usable on multiple surfaces
• Does not yellow
• Holds up to the weather

What Could Be Improved

• It’s expensive, so most people can’t afford it, especially if their project is enormous
• There might be white spotting when wet

11. Best End Grain Sealer – DeckWise Ipe Seal Hardwood

DeckWise’s Ipe Seal is a wax emulsion sealer that has been shown to improve the structural stability of hardwood decking. It is formulated to stop end checking in newly sawn logs, turning blanks, face grain, and other exposed lumber. 

Ipe Seal forms a bond that increases the lifespan of each deck board. One quart of end sealer will cover about 500 square feet of decking.

The sooner you apply this sealer to the exposed end grain, the more impactful the coating. It is highly recommended that you use the sealer within 24 hours of cutting.

Depending on the wood species, dryness, handling, and some other natural factors, the end sealer could cause color and shading changes in wood.

If this possibility concerns you,  perform a test on the ends of the sample pieces and leave them to stand for two days.

The sealer is a wax emulsion sealer intended only for exposed end grain or cuts. Its seal is too thick and grippy for surface application.

What I Liked Most

• Has an excellent coverage
• Straightforward to use
• Works as advertised
• One quart is more than enough to coat all-new cuts generously

What Could Be Improved

• Takes longer to dry, so you may not like the wait time.

Sealer For Outdoor Wood Furniture Comparison Table

Preview Product Rating 1 gal Ready Seal 112 Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer... 401 Reviews See Today's Price STAR BRITE Premium Golden Teak Oil - Preserver, Stain,... 4,423 Reviews See Today's Price Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer - Waterproof Sealant -... 1,039 Reviews See Today's Price Thompsons Waterseal 41851 Gl STN Tran Woodlnd Cedr 293 Reviews See Today's Price Waterlox TB 3809 25F Original Marine Sealer Qt, Clear 169 Reviews See Today's Price Minwax Water Based Helmsman Spar Urethane, Quart, Semi-Gloss 7,651 Reviews See Today's Price THOMPSONS WATERSEAL TH.042851-16 Semi-Transparent... 454 Reviews See Today's Price Rain Guard Water Sealers - Wood Sealer - Penetrating Water... 1,004 Reviews See Today's Price ANCHORSEAL 2 Hybrid Log Lumber end Grain Sealer -... 1,465 Reviews See Today's Price Rust-Oleum 250141H Ultimate Spar Urethane Water Based,... 1,571 Reviews See Today's Price DeckWise Ipe Seal Hardwood End Grain Sealant for Fresh Cut... 142 Reviews See Today's Price

How to Chose the Best Sealer for Outdoor Furniture

When shopping for a sealant for outdoor furniture, go for one that provides the best UV protection for wood .

The sun’s ultraviolet rays are one of the primary causes of your paint job cracking, peeling, and flaking away. Some claim that UV radiation degrades the finish at the molecular level, but that’s not the case.

UV rays deteriorate the paint and finish by drying out the resin component. To tell if the sealer will completely waterproof the wood, perform a water drop test.

If the water beads up and rolls away, know that your wooden surface is safe from water or moisture damage. When buying wood sealant, consider your budget, quantity, coverage, application method, and the sealer’s VOC levels.

Other factors to keep in mind include the following:

Type of Wood Sealer for Outdoor Furniture

Three types of wood sealers exist, namely:

1. Opaque finish

Opaque Wood Finish is a high-quality, low-maintenance alkyd acrylic wood finish suitable for interior and exterior applications.

It has a satin, nanoporous finish that is water repellent and UV resistant. You can use it on rough sawn and smooth planed wood surfaces.

2. Semi-transparent stain

Semi-transparent stains add subtle color to the wood’s surface. These wood sealers have the thinnest pigmentation and highlight natural wood grain and character.

The type and age of wood determine which wood sealers you use to get superb results.

Read Also: Can Acacia Wood be Left Outside?

3. Clear sealer for wood

A water-based varnish made entirely of acrylic intended to seal, protect, and brighten up wood and other surfaces. It is a non-yellowing formula that contains no hazardous solvents or odors.

Clear finishes offer a long-lasting finish that is resistant to almost all household chemicals when thoroughly dried. You can also opt for latex wood sealers, solid wood stains, or solid stains.

Other Consideration When Picking Wood Sealer for Outdoor Furniture 

When buying an outdoor wood sealer, keep in mind the following factors:

Project size

To get a suitable sealer for your project, determine how big or small your task is to save money and avoid wastage. For example, if you want to seal a few outdoor chairs, one gallon may be enough.

If you are working on a vast deck, three or more gallons based on the wood species. 

Drying time

The time a sealant takes to dry is key to getting exceptional results. It determines how soon you can finish your paint job and move on to something else.

Using a fast-drying sealant allows you to apply a topcoat soon and minimize the room for errors. 

UV blockers

Go for a sealer with super UV blockers to protect your surfaces from harmful UV rays. Remember, Uv rays from the sun are one of the primary causes of problems in your outdoor wood as they make the wood warp and split. 

Water-resistant

Buy a sealant that can keep moisture away from your outdoor furniture.

Water and moisture make the wood rot and decay, necessitating costly replacement.  A sealant’s primary goal is to protect the wood from sun, water, snow, and insect infestation. 

Type of Wood

The type of wood can affect the choice of sealer used because different types of wood have different porosity, density, and natural coloration, which can impact how well the sealer will penetrate and adhere to the wood surface.

Here are some considerations for three different types of wood:

Wood with existing stain

If you have wood that has already been stained, it’s important to choose a sealer that is compatible with the existing stain. For example, if you have a water-based stain, you’ll want to use a water-based sealer.

Additionally, some sealers may have pigments or tinting that could alter the color of the existing stain, so it’s important to choose a clear or neutral sealer that won’t affect the color of the wood.

New wood

New wood is typically more porous and absorbent than older, weathered wood, so it’s important to choose a sealer that will penetrate deeply and provide long-lasting protection.

A penetrating oil-based sealer is a good choice for new wood, as it will soak into the pores of the wood and provide excellent protection against moisture and weathering.

Weathered wood

Weathered wood that has been exposed to the elements for a long time can be more difficult to seal, as it may be more porous and uneven in texture.

A thicker, film-forming sealer, such as a polyurethane-based sealer, maybe a good choice for weathered wood, as it will form a protective layer on the surface of the wood and help to fill in any cracks or gaps.

It’s also important to clean and prepare weathered wood properly before sealing to ensure that the sealer will adhere properly.

How to Seal Outdoor Furniture

You can use interior wood outside,  but it won’t last forever! To help your masterpiece last for decades, use exterior wood sealers to protect them from elements.

You can use stain sealant combos to cut down the cost and reduce waiting time. Here’s how to seal outdoor wood furniture.

Step 1: Pick the best outdoor wood protector/sealer

Just as a long-sleeved shirt protects against sunburn, several coats of an exterior finish safeguard furniture from intense UV rays and moisture. 

Because paint inhibits UV rays more effectively than clear finishes, applying a high-quality exterior primer followed by an exterior oil-based paint is your best option.

Apply several coats of exterior spar varnish with UV blockers for an organic-wood appearance. Spar varnish creates an established finish that is more durable than oil. 

Step 2: Sand Down The Wooden Surface

Before putting on the sealer, sand the wood surface down to remove existing stains, dirt, and debris. You can use chemical wood strippers to ensure that the sealer adheres well to the surface.

Step 3: Completely Seal the Wood

Leave no part of the wood unfinished. That includes the joints, beneath, and even the legs bottoms. Use a tiny brush or a sprayer to get to the hard-to-reach areas. 

Step 4: Recoat Frequently

To keep your outdoor sealed surfaces looking great, apply a maintenance coat regularly because even the top sealants in the market will wear out with time.

It’s cheaper to recoat than to use a new sealant. So recoat your outdoor wood after every two or three years.

What is the Best Protection for Outdoor Wood Furniture?

Although there are several options for protecting outdoor wood, the primary choice for an excellent exterior wood sealer is between water-based and oil-based polyurethane. 

Water-based remedies have a few benefits for wood products.  But For outdoor wood furniture,  the most prudent option is oil.

Oil-based formulas protect outdoor wood by preventing water, dirt, and UV rays from destroying wood authenticity.

Second, the oil penetrates deep into the wood, providing maximum protection throughout your wooden structure.

Since protective oil for outdoor wood furniture has a higher viscosity than its water-based counterparts, it dries much slower, resulting in a more uniform finish. 

It is also more resistant to the elements, including extended exposure to UV rays – mainly when tinted. There are numerous factors to consider when purchasing an oil-based exterior wood sealer.

For example, is it essential to preserve your wood’s natural appearance and characteristics? If this is the case, it makes sense to use an oil-based formula to protect the wood furniture from the elements.

If color and UV protection for wood are more crucial considerations, selecting a color tint or opaque protective oil that allows for a bolder natural color choice would be sensible.

It depends on your preferences since some water-based wood sealants offer unmatched protection from the sun, water, insects and are equally durable. 

It’s a brilliant idea to seal untreated wood with polyurethane sealants and other finishes to give it an upper hand against the elements.

So the best wood protector for outdoor furniture is any top-quality oil-based poly.

Benefits of Sealing Outdoor Wood

Sealing exterior wood is important for several reasons.

First, it helps to protect the wood from moisture, which can cause it to warp, rot, or decay over time. Sealing the wood creates a barrier that prevents water from penetrating the surface, which can significantly extend the life of the wood.

Second, sealing exterior wood can help to prevent damage from UV radiation. Exposure to the sun can cause wood to fade or discolor over time, and UV radiation can also cause the wood to become brittle and more prone to cracking or splitting. A quality wood sealer with UV inhibitors can help to prevent this damage.

Third, sealing exterior wood can improve its appearance and make it easier to maintain. A well-sealed wood surface is easier to clean and less likely to become stained or discolored.

Various Ways to Protect Outdoor From Elements

1. Seal

Sealing your outdoor wood furniture is one of the best ways to protect it from harsh elements. Sealing helps protect the wood from water, UV rays, and other environmental damage.

The sealant also forms a protective barrier that prevents dirt and contaminants from seeping into the wood’s grain.

Sealing also helps preserve the wood’s natural color and hue, ensuring that it looks great even after years of exposure.

Pros of sealing outdoor wood furniture

• Provides an extra layer of protection against water, UV rays and other environmental elements.
• Forms a protective barrier to prevent dirt and contaminants from entering the wood grain.
• Preserves the wood’s natural color and hue.

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to keep the sealant in good condition.
• Can be time consuming and difficult to apply correctly.
• Not all types of sealants are suitable for outdoor use, so it’s important to choose one that is designed specifically for outdoor wood furniture.

2. Varnish

Varnishing your outdoor wood furniture is another great way to protect it from the elements.

Varnishes are more durable than sealants and provide an extra layer of protection against water, UV rays and other environmental damage.

They also help preserve the natural color and hue of the wood, making sure that it looks great for years to come.

Pros:

• More durable than sealants, providing an extra layer of protection against water and UV rays.
• Helps preserve the natural color and hue of the wood.
• Can be easily applied with a brush or roller.

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to keep the varnish in good condition.
• Can be time consuming and difficult to apply correctly.
• Not all types of varnishes are suitable for outdoor use, so it’s important to choose one that is designed specifically for outdoor wood furniture.

3. Paint

Painting your outdoor wood furniture is a great way to protect it from the elements and add an extra layer of protection against water, UV rays and other environmental damage.

Painting also helps brighten up your outdoor space, as you can choose from a wide range of colors to suit your personal taste.

Pros:

• Provides an extra layer of protection against water and UV rays.
• Can be used to brighten up an outdoor space with a wide range of colors.
• Easy to apply and can be done with a brush or roller.

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to keep the paint in good condition.
• Can be time consuming and difficult to apply correctly.
• Not all types of paints are suitable for outdoor use, so it’s important to choose one that is designed specifically for outdoor wood furniture.

4. Outdoor Covers

Using an outdoor cover to protect your wood furniture from the elements is another great option. Outdoor covers provide an extra layer of protection against water, UV rays and other environmental damage.

They also help keep dirt and debris from accumulating on the furniture, making it easier to clean and maintain.

Pros:

• Provides an extra layer of protection against water, UV rays and other environmental elements.
• Keeps dirt and debris from accumulating on the furniture surface.
• Easy to put on and take off.

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to keep the cover clean and in good condition.
• Less moisture resistant

No matter what protection method you choose, it’s important to make sure that your outdoor wood furniture is kept clean and well maintained.

Regularly cleaning and inspecting the furniture will help ensure that it lasts a long time and stays looking great for years to come. Following this advice will help prolong the life of your outdoor wood furniture, no matter what harsh elements come its way.

How to Waterproof Your Outdoor Furniture using a sealant

Protecting your outdoor furniture from the elements is essential for preserving its lifespan and overall quality. With a sealant, you can waterproof your furniture quickly and easily to keep it looking good as new.

Supplies

• Sealant
• Cleaning supplies (e.g., dish soap, cloths, etc.)
• Paint scraper or sandpaper (optional)
• Masking tape (optional)
• Drop cloths to protect surfaces from overspray and spills
• A soft brush to apply the sealant
• Gloves
• Protective eyewear
• Paper towels
• A putty knife (optional)

Step by Step process

Step 1: Clean the furniture surface using dish soap and a damp cloth. Remove any peeling paint or rust with sandpaper or a paint scraper.

Step 2: Mask off areas you do not want to seal, such as cushions or any fabrics on the furniture. Step 3: Put on gloves and protective eyewear. Shake the sealant can for one minute.

Step 4: Apply the sealant with a soft brush in even, thin layers. Overlap your strokes to ensure complete coverage.

Step 5: Allow the sealant to dry completely before applying a second coat if desired.

Step 6: Clean up any spills or overspray with a damp cloth and paper towels.

Step 7: Remove the masking tape and admire your work.

Recommend Reading:

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Waterproofing Your Outdoor Furniture using Linseed Oil Or Tung Oil

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When it comes to protecting outdoor furniture from harsh elements, nothing beats waterproofing with linseed oil or tung oil. This treatment provides superior protection while maintaining a natural look and feel.

Supplies

1. Linseed oil or tung oil
2. Clean cloths
3. Sandpaper

Steps

Step 1. Clean the furniture with a cloth and wire brush, removing any dirt or debris.

Step 2: Sand the furniture to ensure a good surface for oil absorption.

Step 3: Apply a thin layer of linseed oil or tung oil and spread evenly with a soft cloth.

Step 4: Allow the oil to dry completely before applying another coat.

Step 5: Once two coats have been applied, allow the furniture to fully cure before using it outdoors.

FAQs

If you’re wondering the best way to seal outdoor wood furniture, here are some questions you might have.

Should I seal my outdoor furniture?

Yes. You should seal your outdoor furniture to protect it from rain, moisture, snow, mold and mildew, and insect infestation. You also seal it to make it more durable. If you leave it unsealed, it will rot, and it’s more expensive to replace it than to seal it. 

How to seal an outdoor wood table

First off, get an exterior wood sealant with exceptional UV protection and water-resistant abilities. The sealant should also protect the outdoor wood table from mold and moss growth. That said, here’s how to go about it.

Sand the table using 180- 220 grit sandpaper to remove the existing finish.  Using a  clean, lint-free cloth, wipe off the table and remove the dirt and debris. 

With a high-quality nylon or polyester brush, apply the sealant in the direction of the wood grain. Apply one small part at a time to avoid lap marks.

Wipe off the excess sealant and wait for it to dry before applying another coat. Ensure you seal all table parts, including crooks and corners, to protect them from elements.  

What is the difference between wood stain and wood finish?

A wood stain penetrates the wood deeply,  while a finish forms a protective shield on the outside surface. Some finishes contain colors to highlight or change the color of your wood.

Finishes make the wood more durable, so you use them in areas that see a lot of wear and tear. Here are types of wood finishings .

Do you seal or stain the wood first?

The order in which you apply wood stains and sealants depends on what you’re working with at the time.  But generally, we recommend staining first, sealing second, and using topcoat third for the best results.

This will ensure the best possible protection for your outdoor wood furniture.

Do I need to seal the wood after staining?

Yes. You should seal the wood after staining it because it is still porous, meaning it’ll absorb water and moisture, which causes it to rot. However, using a standard stain will give the wood some level of protection compared to completely untreated lumber.

How long after staining can I seal?

The majority of wood stains dry entirely in a day or two. Some colors, such as general finishes stains, can take three or four hours to dry. You can then apply the sealer.

However, to be on the safe side, wait for three days before sealing.  

Do you sand after staining wood?

Yes, sand between stain coats. Lightly sand the surface several times with finer grit sandpaper. Remember that you will most likely need to apply several coats of stain to achieve the desired level of protection for your outdoor project.

As you apply each coat, be sure to wipe away any excess stain.

Can you seal wood without darkening the color?

Yes, there are clear wood sealers available that do not contain any pigments or dyes that could darken the wood.

These sealers are designed to provide protection to the wood without altering its natural color or appearance. It is important to choose a clear sealer that is specifically designed for your type of wood and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.

How long do wood sealers take to dry

The drying times of wood sealants vary depending on the type of sealer, the weather conditions, and the surface of the wood being sealed.

Water-based sealers usually dry within a few hours, while oil-based and polyurethane-based sealers can take up to 24 hours or longer to dry completely. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the recommended drying time before applying a second coat or using the sealed surface.

What is the Best Sealer for Outdoor Wood Furniture?

When buying the best sealer for outdoor wood furniture, it’s a good idea to stick with wood sealants with an impeccable reputation to avoid making costly mistakes.

Our overall best outdoor wood sealer is Ready Seal 112 1-Gallon Sealer for Wood . It has good coverage, can be used in any temperature range, and protects the outdoor wood furniture from sun, water, and other elements.