My Experience With Painting Outdoor Wood Furniture

Last summer, I decided to revamp my backyard and give my old wooden furniture a new look. I was excited to tackle this DIY project, but I soon realized that choosing the right paint for outdoor wood furniture was not an easy task. After some research and trial and error, I finally found the perfect paint that not only gave my furniture a fresh look but also protected it from the harsh weather conditions. In this article, I will share my experience and guide you on what paint is best for outdoor wood furniture.

What Paint Is Best For Outdoor Wood Furniture?

Painting outdoor wood furniture requires a specific type of paint that can withstand the elements and protect the wood from rotting and fading. The best paint for outdoor wood furniture is an oil-based paint that contains a high percentage of solids. The solids provide a thick and durable coat that can withstand rain, sun, and other outdoor conditions. Some of the best oil-based paints for outdoor wood furniture include:

1. Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint

This paint is specifically designed for boats but can also be used on outdoor furniture. It is durable, waterproof, and can withstand extreme weather conditions. The Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint comes in a variety of colors and has a glossy finish that gives furniture a sleek and elegant look.

2. Behr Premium Plus Ultra Exterior Paint

This is another excellent paint for outdoor wood furniture. It is a 100% acrylic paint that is resistant to mildew, fading, and cracking. The Behr Premium Plus Ultra Exterior Paint comes in a variety of colors and has a satin finish that gives furniture a smooth and polished look.

3. Benjamin Moore Regal Select Exterior High Build Paint

This paint is a high-quality exterior paint that is perfect for outdoor wood furniture. It is a water-based paint that contains high solids and provides excellent coverage. The Benjamin Moore Regal Select Exterior High Build Paint comes in a variety of colors and has a semi-gloss finish that gives furniture a classic and timeless look.

Step-By-Step Guide for Painting Outdoor Wood Furniture

Now that you know what paint is best for outdoor wood furniture, here is a step-by-step guide on how to paint your furniture:

Step 1: Prep the Furniture

Clean the furniture with a mild detergent and water to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. Sand the furniture with a fine-grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots and create a smooth surface. Wipe the furniture with a clean cloth to remove any dust or debris.

Step 2: Prime the Furniture

Apply a coat of primer to the furniture to help the paint adhere and provide a smooth finish. Use a brush or roller to apply the primer and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 3: Apply the Paint

Apply a coat of paint to the furniture using a brush or roller. Start at the top of the furniture and work your way down. Use long, even strokes to apply the paint and make sure to cover all surfaces. Let the paint dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 4: Apply a Second Coat (Optional)

If necessary, apply a second coat of paint to the furniture to provide additional protection and coverage. Let the paint dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 5: Seal the Furniture

Apply a coat of sealer to the furniture to protect it from the elements and help the paint last longer. Use a brush or roller to apply the sealer and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Painting Outdoor Wood Furniture

Here are some tips and ideas to make your outdoor wood furniture painting project a success:

Choose the right paint for your furniture based on the type of wood and the weather conditions in your area.
Make sure to prep the furniture properly by cleaning and sanding it before painting.
Use a primer to help the paint adhere and provide a smooth finish.
Apply the paint using long, even strokes to ensure full coverage.
Consider using stencils or patterns to add a decorative touch to your furniture.
Use a sealer to protect the furniture from the elements and help the paint last longer.
Try using multiple colors to create a unique and colorful look.
Consider using a spray gun to apply the paint for a smoother and more even finish.
Let the paint dry thoroughly before using the furniture.
Store the furniture in a covered area during the winter months to protect it from the elements.

Pros and Cons of Painting Outdoor Wood Furniture

Here are some pros and cons of painting outdoor wood furniture:

Pros:

Painting the furniture can give it a fresh and updated look.
Paint can protect the furniture from the elements and help it last longer.
Paint can be customized to match your outdoor décor.

Cons:

Paint can be more expensive than other types of finishes.
Paint requires more preparation and work than other types of finishes.
Paint can chip or peel over time, requiring touch-ups or repainting.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

After trying out different paints on my outdoor wood furniture, I found that the Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint provided the best results. The paint was easy to apply, provided excellent coverage, and gave my furniture a sleek and polished look. The furniture has held up well over the past year and still looks great. My suggestion would be to choose a paint that is specifically designed for outdoor use, contains a high percentage of solids, and provides a durable and long-lasting finish.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Can I use indoor paint for outdoor wood furniture?

A: No, indoor paint is not designed to withstand the elements and will quickly fade, crack, and peel when exposed to outdoor conditions.

Q: Do I need to use a sealer after painting outdoor wood furniture?

A: Yes, a sealer will protect the furniture from the elements and help the paint last longer.

Q: How long does it take for paint to dry on outdoor wood furniture?

A: It depends on the type of paint and the weather conditions. Generally, it takes 24-48 hours for paint to dry on outdoor wood furniture.

Q: Can I use a brush or roller to apply paint to outdoor wood furniture?

A: Yes, a brush or roller can be used to apply paint to outdoor wood furniture. However, a spray gun may provide a smoother and more even finish.