Outdoor furniture is exposed to the harsh elements day in and day out. From the beating sun, to rain, snow, and wind, outdoor furniture takes a real beating over time. One of the best ways to protect and extend the life of patio furniture is by applying a protective spray coating which acts as a shield against weathering and normal wear and tear.
But with so many furniture sealers and protectants on the market, how do you know which is the best spray for outdoor furniture? This article will discuss the leading types of sprays available for outdoor furniture and evaluate the pros and cons of each to help determine the ideal protective coating for your patio set.
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Types of Outdoor Furniture Sealers and Protectants
There are three main categories of sealers and protectants for outdoor furniture:
- Oil-Based Products
- Water-Based Acrylics
- Urethanes
Each has their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to protecting patio furniture. Here is an overview of each type:
Oil-Based Products
Oil-based sprays for outdoor furniture use linseed oil, tung oil, or other natural oils as a sealer. These penetrate into the pores of the wood and impart water resistance. Oil-based formulas often contain UV blockers as well to filter out harsh sun rays.
**Pros:**
- Penetrate deeply into wood pores
- Contain UV inhibitors
- Allow wood to breathe naturally
- Easy application with brush or cloth
- Enhance natural look and feel of wood
**Cons:
- Require more frequent reapplication than other sealers
- Can feel sticky in hot, humid weather
- Do not create a surface film or shell
Water-Based Acrylics
Acrylic formulas use water-based acrylic polymers to seal and protect wood furniture. They penetrate the surface and seal the pores with a protective coating.
**Pros:**
- Create a surface film for good splash protection
- Allows surface to breathe
- Contain UV blockers
- Relatively affordable
- Water cleanup
**Cons:**
- Can feel tacky or sticky initially
- Do not penetrate deeply into wood pores
- Require reapplication every 1-2 years
Urethanes
Polyurethane sprays use synthetic urethane polymers to coat the furniture. Urethanes leave a hard shell-like finish.
**Pros:**
- Create a durable surface barrier
- Provide excellent water resistance
- Block UV rays
- Typically last 2-3 years between applications
**Cons:**
- Do not allow wood to breathe well
- Can crack or peel over time
- Give a plastic-like coated feel
- Require stripping for removal
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Furniture Protector Spray
When selecting the ideal protective coating, consider these factors:
Type of Wood
The wood species impacts the best sealer choice. For dense woods like teak that have natural oils, a penetrating oil-based sealer is ideal. For open-grained porous woods like pine, an acrylic film-forming sealant works better.
Desired Finish
Do you want to showcase the wood’s natural look or prefer a polished finish? Oils enhance the natural grain while urethanes create a smooth surface film.
Application Environment
What is the climate like? Oils are better for dry climates and acrylics for damp humid environments. Urethanes work in any setting.
Maintenance Level
Some people don’t mind frequent reapplication while others want a long-lasting protector. Oils require more regular maintenance than acrylics and urethanes.
Budget
Oils and acrylics are more affordable than urethanes. Factor in cost for the initial product and long-term maintenance.
Best Spray Sealers for Specific Furniture Types
Here are top sealer recommendations based on specific outdoor furniture materials:
Wood Furniture
| Furniture Type | Best Protective Spray |
|---|---|
| Teak | Teak Oil |
| Cedar | Tung Oil |
| Pine | Spar Urethane |
Wicker Furniture
UV-resistant clear acrylic spray
Metal Furniture
Rust-oleum Clear Enamel Spray
Plastic Outdoor Furniture
Krylon Clear Polyurethane Spray
Tips for Applying Outdoor Furniture Sealant Sprays
Follow these best practices when using protective sealers for your patio furniture:
- Clean furniture thoroughly before application
- Lightly sand to improve adhesion
- Apply in thin, even coats
- Allow proper drying time between coats
- Spray when temps are between 50-90°F
- Work in a well-ventilated area
- Wear protective equipment like gloves and eye protection
- Read all label safety precautions
Conclusion
Outdoor furniture takes a beating and needs a protective barrier against the elements. Oil-based, acrylic, and urethane sprays all make excellent sealers, with oil-based products providing the deepest protection for wood surfaces. Consider the wood type, climate, desired finish, and budget when selecting the ideal outdoor furniture spray. Follow proper preparation and application instructions to get the best performance from the sealer. Reapply as needed to keep your patio furniture looking like new for many seasons.