Is your old picnic table looking kinda sad? Nothing to worry about, you don’t have to throw it out. You can give it new life with a little elbow grease.
A little cleaning, sanding, and painting is all it takes to give it a total makeover. But, how to Refinish a Picnic Table With Simple Steps? The cost of refinishing it is much lower than the cost of buying a new one. Plus, it’s a fun way to put your twist on your outdoor space. Whether you want a cozy, natural vibe or something bright and bold, these simple steps will help you get there.
Materials and Tools Needed for the Job
Using the right products, like the best paint for picnic tables or a durable outdoor stain, makes a big difference in how long your refinished table will last. You should have all the following supplies before you begin:
- Medium and fine-grit sandpaper (80- and 120-grit)
- Orbital sander (optional, but speeds up the job)
- Wood cleaner or mild soap
- Paintbrushes, foam rollers, or sprayers
- Outdoor wood stain or exterior paint
- Polyurethane sealant or outdoor sealer
- Protective gear (gloves, mask, and eye protection)
- Drop cloths or tarps
Step 1: Clean the Table Thoroughly
The first thing you should do is scrub your picnic table. Dirt, mildew, and old finishes can prevent new paint or stains from sticking properly. Alternatively, you can use a specialized wood cleaner. To remove tougher grime, a pressure washer set on low works wonders. Nevertheless, you should avoid splintering the wood.
After cleaning, let the table dry completely, ideally overnight.
Step 2: Sand Away the Old Finish
Next, it’s time to smooth things out. Sanding removes old paint, stains, and surface imperfections, helping your new finish adhere better.
What kind of sandpaper do you use on a picnic table?
You can start with a medium-grit (around 80-grit) to strip the old finish, and then move onto a finer grit (120-grit or 150-grit) to smooth the surface. If you’re using a power sander, it’ll save a lot of elbow grease, but hand sanding works for smaller tables or intricate areas.
Always sand with the grain of the wood and wear a dust mask during this step.
Step 3: Repair Any Damage
Before you move forward, inspect your picnic table carefully. Look for cracks, splinters, and loose nails or screws. Make sure there are no gaps in the wood and tighten or replace any hardware that needs replacing. You can make repairs look seamless by sanding them with fine sandpaper.
Step 4: Apply Stain or Paint
It’s now time for the fun part, which is all about color! The first question you might have is:
Is it better to paint or stain a picnic table?
Both options have their perks:
- Staining enhances the wood’s natural beauty and generally lasts longer with less peeling.
- Painting offers more vibrant color choices and provides a strong barrier against UV rays and moisture.
A stain is the best option if you prefer a natural, rustic look. If you want to get creative with colors, painted picnic tables can brighten up a backyard.
Best way to paint a picnic table:
- Use a primer made for exterior wood before applying the paint. You should use an exterior acrylic latex paint if you want durability. Apply thin coats with a brush or roller, allowing each coat to dry before adding another.
- For staining, use a brush or cloth to apply evenly, wiping off any excess. Let it dry fully as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 5: Seal and Protect
No matter if you choose stain or paint, sealing your picnic table is crucial, especially if it lives outside year-round.
How do you weatherproof a wooden picnic table?
Apply a clear outdoor polyurethane, spar urethane, or a marine-grade sealer. These products repel water, block UV rays, and prevent mold and mildew. If you want maximum protection, apply two to three coats, sanding lightly between coats for the best results.
This extra step extends the life of your beautiful new finish, protecting it from rain, sun, and temperature changes.
Bonus Tips
- Maintenance: Regularly clean your picnic table and reapply a fresh coat of sealer every 1–2 years.
- Creative Touches: Add personal flair with stencils, two-tone colors, or even a checkerboard for built-in games!
- Location Matters: Placing your table under a shade structure or using a table cover can add even more protection against the elements.
Can you refinish a picnic table?
Absolutely, with these simple steps, you’ll have a refinished table that looks great and lasts for many more summers.
Conclusion
You can refinish your picnic table yourself with a little planning and the right materials. Staining or painting your old picnic tables is an easy way to give them a new lease of life. Giving them a new look is easier than you think.
Now that you know the best way to paint a picnic table and how to weatherproof it, why not start this weekend? Your outdoor gatherings are about to get much more stylish and inviting! You can share your refinished table with us!
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