Outdoor cedar furniture is both beautiful and durable, making it a popular choice for patios, decks, and gardens. However, like any outdoor furniture, it requires proper care and maintenance to preserve its natural charm and longevity. Cedar is known for its resistance to decay and insect damage, but exposure to harsh weather conditions and sunlight can cause it to fade or weaken over time.
By following a few simple steps, you can ensure your cedar furniture remains in excellent condition and continues to enhance your outdoor space for years to come. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to treat outdoor cedar furniture so that you can get back to using it in no time! So grab your tools, and let’s get started!
Importance of Treating Outdoor Cedar
Cedar is a durable and aesthetically pleasing wood, often chosen for outdoor furniture due to its natural resistance to decay, moisture, and pests. However, even cedar is not completely immune to the effects of weather over time. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading or discoloration, while rain and humidity might lead to warping or weakening of the wood.
Treating your outdoor cedar furniture not only enhances its natural beauty but also extends its lifespan, ensuring it remains functional and visually appealing for years to come. Regular maintenance and proper treatment can guard against damage, preserve its rich color, and retain the wood’s luxurious texture, protecting your investment and allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space worry-free.
Characteristics of Cedar Wood
Cedar wood is prized for its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to decay. It features a rich, warm color palette that ranges from pale honey to deep reddish-brown, making it a popular choice for outdoor furniture and decorative pieces. One of its most notable characteristics is its natural resistance to moisture, which helps prevent rotting and warping even in damp conditions.
Additionally, cedar has a built-in ability to repel insects, thanks to the natural oils within the wood. This aromatic property not only adds a pleasant scent but also acts as a natural defense against pests. Furthermore, cedar is lightweight yet sturdy, making it easy to work with while remaining resilient under various environmental conditions. These qualities combine to make cedar wood a versatile and highly sought-after material for both functional and aesthetic applications.
10 Methods How to Treat Outdoor Cedar Furniture
Method 1: Clean the Furniture Regularly
The first and most important step in treating cedar furniture is thorough cleaning. Dirt, pollen, and mildew can accumulate on outdoor surfaces, gradually degrading the wood. Use a soft brush or broom to remove loose debris, then wash the furniture with a mixture of mild soap and water.
A soft sponge or cloth works well for gentle scrubbing, while a garden hose can rinse the surface afterward. Avoid using harsh chemicals or high-pressure washers, as they can damage the cedar’s fibers. Dry the furniture completely before applying any treatment to prevent trapping moisture under protective coatings.
Method 2: Sand the Surface for Smoothness
Over time, cedar furniture can develop rough spots, splinters, or weathered areas. Light sanding with fine- or medium-grit sandpaper smooths these surfaces and opens the wood grain, preparing it for protective finishes. Always sand along the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches. After sanding, wipe the furniture with a tack cloth or damp rag to remove dust. Sanding not only improves the texture but also ensures that stains, oils, or sealants adhere evenly for maximum protection.
Method 3: Apply Cedar Oil or Penetrating Oil
Cedar oil or other penetrating oils are excellent for maintaining the wood’s natural color and repelling moisture. Apply the oil generously with a clean cloth, brush, or sponge, ensuring it soaks into all surfaces, including joints and crevices.
Allow the oil to penetrate for the recommended time, then wipe off any excess to prevent a sticky residue. Oils nourish the wood, enhance its natural scent, and provide a protective barrier against weathering while preserving the rich tones of fresh cedar.
Method 4: Use Exterior Wood Stain
If a specific color or shade is desired, an exterior wood stain can be applied. Choose a stain designed for outdoor use, which penetrates the cedar and resists fading from UV rays. Apply the stain evenly with a brush, following the grain of the wood, and avoid over-application, which can result in streaks or uneven color.
Multiple thin coats often produce a deeper, more uniform hue than a single thick layer. Staining also adds a level of protection against moisture and sunlight, reducing the risk of cracking or splitting over time.
Method 5: Seal with a Clear Wood Sealer
A clear wood sealer provides an additional layer of defense against rain, sun, and humidity. After the furniture has been cleaned, sanded, and optionally stained, apply the sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to achieve even coverage. Sealers prevent water absorption and UV damage, maintaining the cedar’s integrity while extending the life of any applied oils or stains. Reapplying the sealer annually ensures continued protection, especially in harsh climates.
Method 6: Protect Against Mold and Mildew
Outdoor cedar furniture is prone to mold and mildew growth, especially in damp or shaded areas. To combat this, occasionally clean the furniture with a solution of water and white vinegar, which naturally inhibits fungal growth. For more severe cases, specialized mildew cleaners designed for outdoor wood can be used. Ensure the furniture dries thoroughly after cleaning, and position it to allow air circulation. Preventing mold not only preserves the wood but also keeps the furniture safe and pleasant to use.
Method 7: Cover or Store During Extreme Weather
Even treated cedar benefits from protection during extreme weather conditions. Use breathable outdoor furniture covers to shield pieces from heavy rain, snow, or prolonged direct sunlight. Covers prevent moisture buildup and reduce UV exposure, slowing the graying and drying process.
If possible, store smaller cedar items indoors during the winter months or periods of heavy storms. This method reduces the frequency of maintenance and prolongs the lifespan of the furniture.
Method 8: Repair Damaged Sections Promptly
Outdoor cedar furniture can develop cracks, splits, or loose joints over time. Addressing these issues promptly prevents further deterioration. Fill small cracks with an outdoor wood filler or putty, sand smooth once dried, and apply oil, stain, or sealer over the repair.
Tighten loose screws or replace corroded hardware to maintain structural integrity. Regular inspection and timely repair protect both the appearance and function of cedar furniture, preventing minor problems from turning into major repairs.
Method 9: Maintain the Natural Cedar Patina or Color
Some homeowners prefer the natural weathered gray patina that cedar develops over time. If this is the desired look, limit the use of stains and simply maintain the furniture with regular cleaning, light sanding, and occasional oiling to prevent drying or splintering. Alternatively, to preserve the fresh golden-brown hue of new cedar, use UV-blocking finishes in conjunction with oiling or sealing. Understanding the desired outcome guides the choice of treatment and ensures consistent results over time.
Method 10: Regular Maintenance Schedule
Finally, establishing a consistent maintenance routine is essential for long-lasting outdoor cedar furniture. Clean the furniture at least once or twice a year, inspect for damage, sand rough areas, and reapply oil, stain, or sealer as needed. Seasonal touch-ups keep the wood nourished and protected, while routine inspections catch issues like mold, mildew, or hardware wear early. A disciplined schedule of care preserves both the beauty and function of cedar furniture for decades, making it a worthwhile investment.
Maintenance and Upkeep
To ensure the longevity of outdoor cedar furniture, proper maintenance practices are vital. Regular cleaning with a mild soap solution and a soft brush helps remove dirt, debris, and environmental buildup, preventing long-term damage. It’s also important to store or cover cedar furniture during harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, to protect it from excessive moisture or exposure.
Additionally, refinishing the surface with a protective sealant or oil every 6–12 months helps maintain its natural luster and guards against wear. Paying attention to these small upkeep measures will ensure your cedar furniture remains a timeless and durable part of your outdoor space.
Conclusion
In conclusion, treating outdoor cedar furniture involves a combination of cleaning, sanding, oiling, staining, sealing, and routine maintenance. Each method contributes to the furniture’s durability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to environmental stressors. Whether preserving the natural look, enhancing color, or protecting against moisture and UV damage, careful treatment ensures that cedar furniture remains functional, comfortable, and visually pleasing for many years.
By following these ten methods, cedar furniture owners can enjoy beautiful, well-maintained pieces that retain their charm and longevity in any outdoor setting. Hopefully, this article gave you some helpful tips about how to treat outdoor cedar furniture successfully, so now that you have the proper knowledge on how to get the job done, why not give it a try today?
