Refinishing Old Outdoor Furniture

Rejuvenating Old Outdoor Furniture: A Step-by-Step Guide to Restoration

Tired of your old, weathered outdoor furniture rusting away? It's time to embark on a refreshing restoration journey to reinvigorate your patio or garden with renewed beauty. Refinishing old outdoor furniture might seem like a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and some elbow grease, you can transform your old pieces into stunning showstoppers.

Before getting started, assess the condition of your furniture. Determine the type of material it's made of, such as wood, metal, or resin. Each material requires specific cleaning and refinishing techniques.

Step 1: Cleaning

Remove all dirt, debris, and mildew from the furniture using a mild cleaning solution and a soft-bristled brush. For stubborn stains, consider using a pressure washer at a low setting to avoid damaging the surface.

Step 2: Sanding

For wooden furniture, sanding is essential to remove old paint or varnish and smooth out any imperfections. Start with coarse sandpaper (80-grit) and gradually move to finer grits (120-grit and 240-grit) to create a smooth finish.

If your furniture is made of metal, you can lightly sand the surface to remove any rust or corrosion using fine-grit sandpaper.

Step 3: Repair

Inspect your furniture for any damaged pieces, such as loose screws or broken slats. Use wood glue to secure loose parts and replace damaged ones if necessary.

For metal furniture, repair any rust spots using a rust converter. This will prevent the rust from spreading and create a smooth surface for painting.

Step 4: Priming

Priming is crucial for wooden furniture to create a base for the paint or stain. Choose a primer specifically designed for outdoor use and apply it evenly using a paintbrush or roller.

Priming is not typically necessary for metal furniture as paint can adhere directly to the surface.

Step 5: Refinishing

For wooden furniture, you can choose between painting or staining. If painting, apply two or three coats of exterior-grade paint in your desired color. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

For staining, apply one or two coats of outdoor-grade stain using a brush or sponge. Use a cloth to remove any excess stain and allow it to penetrate the wood.

For metal furniture, apply two or three coats of exterior-grade paint or use a spray-on rust-resistant finish specifically designed for outdoor use.

Step 6: Sealing

Once the paint or stain has dried, apply a clear sealant to protect the finish from the elements. Choose a sealant specifically designed for outdoor use and apply it evenly using a brush or sponge.