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Maintaining garden furniture

Maintaining garden furniture Posted on 25 June 2025

Photograph of a person varnishing wooden furniture.

Now is the time for renovating garden furniture. Peter Wells, Technical Director and Founder of Polyvine, shares some top tips. 

Polyvine is at the forefront of timber protection technology, combining advanced UV filters with waterproof binders in its clear oils and varnishes. While weathering of exterior wood cannot be entirely prevented, the process can be dramatically slowed with the correct protective finish. The two primary threats to outdoor wood are sunlight and water. UV radiation, a component of sunlight, is particularly harmful, breaking down lignin – the substance that gives wood its strength – through a process known as photo-oxidation. This leads to discolouration, surface greying or silvering and degradation over time. Water, in the form of dew and rain, further accelerates deterioration by encouraging mould and fungal growth.

UV filters in protective coatings absorb ultraviolet rays, reducing the amount that reaches the wood. Opaque finishes such as paints and solid stains offer maximum UV protection, while transparent stains allow the wood’s character to show through while still offering a level of defence. Since wood’s natural grain and texture are highly valued, especially in garden furniture, maintaining its appearance requires regular protection against moisture, fungi and sunlight.

Effects of weather on wood

The rate at which wooden furniture ages depends on its exposure and the quality of treatment applied. Furniture left outside all year ages much faster than pieces only used in spring and summer. Untreated or poorly treated wood absorbs and releases moisture, which, combined with temperature fluctuations, can cause cracking and warping. Different types of wood respond differently to these environmental stresses. In addition to fading and splitting, moisture creates a breeding ground for moss, mildew and mould, which can cause staining, surface erosion, and, eventually, rot.

Steps to restore garden furniture

The restoration process begins with a thorough cleaning. A stiff bristle brush should be used to remove surface dirt and debris. A product like Polyvine’s Mouldguard Fungicidal Cleaner is recommended to eliminate moss, mildew and mould. After scrubbing, the furniture should be rinsed with clean water and left to dry completely.

Once dry, any cracks or holes should be filled with a wood filler that matches the original colour. Once cured, the surface should be sanded in the direction of the grain using progressively finer grits of sandpaper. Sanding smooths the surface and prepares it for refinishing. If old varnish or paint is present, it can be removed using something like Polyvine’s ultra-low VOC Varnish and Paint Remover. Safe for both indoor and outdoor use, this product is effective across a variety of surfaces.

After sanding, all surfaces should be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove any dust.

Finishing and weatherproofing

Once prepared, the wood can be treated with a suitable finish such as Polyvine Wood Dye, Exterior Wood Varnish, Exterior Extreme Varnish for heavy wear areas, or Wood Oil. Wood Oil can also be tinted using Polyvine’s oil colourants. The chosen product should be applied evenly, following the direction of the grain, by brushing or spraying, taking care not to over-apply. A second coat may be applied if required, following product drying guidelines.

For a high-sheen look, varnish is ideal; for a more natural finish, Wood Oil is recommended.

Long-term maintenance

While outdoor furniture cannot be permanently protected, it can be maintained to last several years between restorations. Covering furniture during the winter months reduces damage from rain, frost and wind. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and oiling, helps preserve both appearance and durability.

  • Different woods offer varying levels of resilience:
  • Teak naturally resists rot and weathers to a silver-grey patina.
  • Mahogany has rich colour and high durability.
  • Ipe (Brazilian walnut) is extremely dense and long-lasting.
  • Eucalyptus offers sustainability and natural oil resistance.

Routine cleaning with mild soap, regular inspections for cracks, and occasional reapplication of oil or varnish will help keep garden furniture in top condition throughout the year.  

See polyvine.com