How To Prepare Outdoor Furniture For Oiling

How to prepare outdoor furniture for oiling

Outdoor furniture is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it can take a beating from the elements. The sun, rain, and wind can all fade and damage furniture, making it look old and worn. Oiling your outdoor furniture is a great way to protect it from the elements and keep it looking its best. However, before you can oil your furniture, you need to prepare it properly. Here are a few steps on how to prepare outdoor furniture for oiling.

1. Clean the furniture

The first step is to clean the furniture. This will remove any dirt, dust, or debris that could prevent the oil from penetrating the wood. Use a mild soap and water solution and a soft cloth to clean the furniture. Be sure to rinse the furniture thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

2. Sand the furniture

If the furniture is old or has been damaged, you may need to sand it before oiling it. This will help to smooth out any rough spots and create a surface that the oil can easily penetrate. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and sand the furniture in the direction of the wood grain. Be sure to remove all of the sanding dust before moving on to the next step.

3. Apply a wood cleaner

A wood cleaner will help to remove any remaining dirt, dust, or debris from the furniture. It will also help to open up the pores of the wood, allowing the oil to penetrate more deeply. Apply the wood cleaner according to the manufacturer's instructions and allow it to dwell for the recommended amount of time. Be sure to rinse the furniture thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

4. Apply a wood conditioner

A wood conditioner will help to prepare the furniture for oiling. It will help to protect the wood from the elements and make it more resistant to fading and damage. Apply the wood conditioner according to the manufacturer's instructions and allow it to dwell for the recommended amount of time. Be sure to wipe off any excess conditioner before moving on to the next step.

5. Apply the oil

Now you are ready to apply the oil. Use a soft cloth or brush to apply the oil evenly to the furniture. Be sure to work the oil into the wood grain. Allow the oil to penetrate the wood for the recommended amount of time. Be sure to wipe off any excess oil before the furniture is dry.

6. Allow the furniture to dry

Allow the furniture to dry completely before using it. This will give the oil time to penetrate the wood and dry properly. The drying time will vary depending on the type of oil you used and the weather conditions. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times.

By following these steps, you can prepare your outdoor furniture for oiling and protect it from the elements. Oiling your furniture regularly will help to keep it looking its best for years to come.