Key Takeaways -

• Cedar and Teak furniture are durable and weather-resistant but more expensive.
• Softwoods are affordable but require frequent maintenance to withstand outdoor conditions.
• Protective treatments and regular maintenance extend the life of outdoor wooden tables.
• The right care ensures outdoor wooden furniture remains attractive and functional over time.

Using wooden furniture outdoors is a great way to add charm and warmth to your garden or patio. But it's not as simple as picking and placing any table outside. The weather can really affect your wooden table, from the sun's rays to rain and humidity.

That's why it's key to know not all wood is the same. This article will cover the basics of choosing the right wooden table for outdoor use and help you understand how weather affects wooden tables and how long you can leave them outside.

Whether you have a teak, cedar, or redwood table, you want to ensure it lasts and looks good for as long as possible. So, let's look into the factors determining how long you can leave a wooden table outside.

The Essentials of Wooden Outdoor Furniture

Types of Wood Used in Outdoor Furniture

The durability and maintenance of outdoor furniture heavily depend on the type of wood used. Hardwoods, such as Teak, Cedar, Eucalyptus, and Redwood, are favoured for their resilience against weather conditions and pests, making them ideal for outdoor tables.

These woods have natural oils that protect them, marking them as high-quality wood furniture, but they also come at a higher price.

In contrast, softwoods like Pine, Spruce, and Fir are more affordable but less resistant to the elements and require more upkeep to prevent decay and damage.

Factors Affecting Wooden Furniture Longevity Outside

Several factors influence how long wooden furniture can last outdoors:

• Weather Conditions: Sunlight can fade and warp wood, while rain and humidity can cause rotting. Temperature fluctuations further stress the wood, potentially leading to cracks.
• Insects and Pests: Certain woods are prone to insect damage, which can compromise the furniture's structure and appearance.
• Maintenance and Care: Regular cleaning, applying protective finishes, and conducting timely repairs can significantly extend a piece's life.
• Selection of Durable Wood and Quality Construction: Choosing the right type of wood and ensuring it's well-constructed are crucial. Good quality wooden furniture craftsmanship withstands the elements better and offers longer-lasting use.

Can You Leave Your Wooden Table Outside Indefinitely?

The Resilience of Different Wood Types

Not all woods can withstand being left outside indefinitely. Teak, Redwood, and Cedar stand out for their high durability and natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage, making them excellent choices for garden furniture.

With the right care and maintenance, these hardwoods can age gracefully, potentially lasting 20 to 30 years before showing significant signs of wear (1).

On the other hand, softwoods, such as Pine, Spruce, and Fir, are more budget-friendly but less resistant to weather and pests, necessitating more frequent maintenance and protective treatments to last outdoors.

Enhancing the Durability of Your Outdoor Wooden Table

Applying weather-resistant finishes to wooden tables, regardless of the wood type, is a proactive measure to enhance their durability. Sealants like oil-based finishes, latex exterior paint, spar varnish, or polyurethane can protect the wood from UV damage and moisture, extending its life.

The Impact of Leaving Wooden Tables Outside

Leaving a wooden furniture outside exposes it to elements that can cause gradual wear and alter its appearance. Sunlight can fade the wood, while rain and humidity can lead to swelling, warping, or rotting.

Temperature changes can cause the wood to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks. To reduce these effects and avoid damage, it's vital to use suitable finishes that protect against UV rays and moisture.

Refinishing the table every one to two years, based on exposure and finish type, will maintain its condition and function (2).

Maintenance Tips for Wooden Tables Left Outside

Regular Cleaning and Care

Regular cleaning is essential to ensure your wooden table stays in good condition. Use mild soap and water or specialised wood cleaners to remove dirt and grime gently. This routine cleaning is crucial to prevent the growth of mould and mildew, which can damage the wood over time.

Additionally, regular inspections should be conducted to catch any signs of damage or wear and tear early on. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further deterioration.

Protective Treatments and Covers

Applying the right finishes can greatly extend the life of your outdoor wooden table. Options include oil-based finishes, latex exterior paint, spar varnish, or polyurethane. Each provides a layer of protection against UV rays and moisture, two of the main culprits of outdoor wood damage.

Additionally, using furniture covers during bad weather or when the table is not in use can protect it from rain, snow, and sun. Place the hardwood furniture in shaded areas to minimise exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause fading and drying out.

Winter Care for Wooden Tables

Winter poses additional challenges for outdoor wooden furniture in colder climates. If leaving your table outside is not feasible due to severe weather, consider storage options to protect it from snow and freezing temperatures.

If storage isn't an option, ensure the table is sealed properly and covered with a waterproof cover (important for creating weather-resistant furniture). Also, clear snow off the furniture regularly to prevent moisture damage.

These steps during the winter months will help maintain your table's condition and readiness for use when warmer weather returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Wood Preservative on My Outdoor Table?

Yes, you can use a wood preservative on your outdoor table to extend its life and maintain its appearance. Wood preservatives protect against rot, decay, and insect damage.

Choosing a preservative suited for the specific type of wood your table is made from and intended for outdoor use is important. Regular application, as per the manufacturer’s instructions, can significantly enhance the durability of your outdoor wooden furniture.

Can Bird Droppings Damage My Outdoor Wooden Table?

Bird droppings can indeed damage your outdoor wooden table. The acidity in bird droppings can erode the finish on your table and, over time, damage the wood. It’s advisable to clean bird droppings off as soon as possible with mild soap and water.

Applying a protective sealant to your table can also help protect its surface from such damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right wooden table for the outdoors and keeping it up can greatly increase its life. Hardwoods like Cedar and Teak garden furniture are tough and weather-resistant but costlier. Softwoods cost less but need more upkeep.

Protecting your table from weather, pests, and damage requires protective treatments and regular care. With the right approach, your patio furniture can remain a beautiful and functional part of your outdoor living space.

Sources -

1. https://www.fcilondon.co.uk/blog/can-you-leave-a-wooden-table-outside/
2. https://todayshomeowner.com/painting/guides/how-to-finish-wood-furniture-for-use-outdoors/