Maybe you have a beautiful patio set, a sturdy garden bench, or a relaxing lounge chair. Now, the big question is: how do you keep it looking fantastic and protected from the elements? If you’ve been researching natural wood finishes, you’ve probably come across tung oil. But can tung oil be used on outdoor furniture effectively?
The short answer is: Yes, absolutely! Tung oil is a fantastic choice for protecting outdoor wood, but there are a few things you need to know to get the best results.
Why Tung Oil is a Top Contender for Outdoor Wood Protection
An oil that is naturally derived from plants is tung oil, which is obtained from the seeds of the tung tree. It penetrates deeper into wood fibers than other finishes. This gives it several key advantages for outdoor use:
- Excellent water resistance: Outdoor furniture must have excellent water resistance. Tung oil finishes are flexible, water-resistant, and help repel moisture. And this makes it great for waterproofing outdoor furnitureand preventing water damage.
- Natural Look and Feel: If you love the natural beauty of wood, tung oil is a winner. It enhances the wood’s grain and color without creating a plastic-looking layer.
- Flexibility and Durability: Tung oil responds to changes in humidity and temperature as wood expands and contracts. This means it’s less likely to crack, peel, or chip compared to some surface finishes. It contributes to tung oil outdoor durability.
- Mildew and Fungus Resistance:T ung oil naturally resists mildew and fungus growth, which is a big plus for items exposed to damp conditions.
- Easy to Repair: It is often possible to repair tung oil finishes instead of stripping them and applying a new coat. This makes maintaining outdoor furniture with tung oil relatively simple.
Tung Oil vs. Teak Oil: What’s the Difference for Outdoor Use?
You might also hear about teak oil in discussions about outdoor furniture. It’s important to understand the distinction:
- Tung Oil: The pure form of tung oil is a natural, drying oil.
- Teak Oil: Often, teak oil is not pure oil but a blend of linseed oil, solvents, and sometimes varnish. However, its effectiveness and longevity can vary widely based on the specific blend.
You can take outdoor wood protection with tung oil by using 100% pure tung oil. This ensures you’re getting the full benefits of the oil’s natural properties.
Does Tung Oil Withstand Rain and Sun?
There is a legitimate reason for this concern, and it is a common one for good reason! Your outdoor furniture faces a constant barrage from the elements.
- Rain: As mentioned, tung oil excels at providing waterproofing outdoor furniture. As a result of its deep penetration, it prevents water from soaking into the wood. This reduces swelling and rot.
- Sun :Although tung oil provides good UV protection, it doesn’t offer strong protection on its own. Over time, constant exposure to direct sunlight can still cause wood to gray. For enhanced UV resistance, some people choose to use a tung oil blend that includes UV inhibitors or a topcoat with a spar varnish that offers UV protection. Most people prefer, however, to just reapply tung oil periodically to maintain the look and protection.
So, can tung oil withstand rain and sun? In general, it provides good sun and moisture protection, but reapplication is necessary for prolonged exposure.
How Long Does Tung Oil Last Outside?
The longevity of a tung oil finish on outdoor furniture depends on several factors:
- Climate: Furniture in harsh, exposed climates will need more frequent reapplication than furniture in a sheltered area.
- Usage: The frequency with which the furniture is used and handled affects its wear and tear.
- Preparation: Proper wood preparation before application is crucial for adherence and longevity.
- Number of Coats: More coats generally mean better and longer-lasting protection.
Generally, you can expect a tung oil finish on outdoor furniture to last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years before needing a refresh. You’ll know when to replace it if you inspect it regularly.
Applying Tung Oil to Outdoor Furniture: Tips for Success
Have you thought about giving your outdoor furniture the tung oil treatment? Here are some tips for ensuring a great finish:
- Clean the Furniture: Check to see that your furniture is clean, dry, and free of dirt, grease, and old finishes. Lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 220-grit) for best adhesion.
- Apply Thin Coats: This is key! When applying tung oil, it should be applied in thin, even coats. You can use either a lint-free cloth or a foam brush.
- Wipe Off Excess: After 20-30 minutes, wipe off any excess oil. This is crucial to prevent a gummy, sticky finish. If you leave excess on, it won’t cure properly.
- Allow Drying Time: Let each coat dry completely before applying the next. This can take 24-48 hours, or even longer in humid conditions. Patience is a virtue here!
- Adding multiple coats is best for outdoor furniture. If you are applying for the first time, think about 3 to 5 applications or even more. This builds up durable protection.
- Maintain: Regularly inspect your furniture. When it starts to look dry or dull, clean it and apply another thin coat of tung oil. This proactive tung oil treatment for weatherproofing wood will protect your furniture for years.
Best Finish for Teak or Cedar Outdoor Furniture?
Both teak and cedar are naturally rot-resistant woods, often chosen for outdoor furniture. Using tung oil for garden furniture made from these woods is an excellent choice. Tung oil will enhance their natural beauty and provide additional protection against moisture and wear without masking their inherent qualities.
In Conclusion
So, is tung oil good for outdoor furniture? Absolutely! Tung oil’s natural water resistance, durability, and beautiful finish make it the perfect protector for outdoor investments. You can enjoy your outdoor furniture for many seasons to come by understanding its properties and following proper application techniques. It will remain beautifully maintained at all times and ready to withstand the elements.