Nature Sign Design’s collection of outdoor wooden benches are designed to allow you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. This means they are designed to be able to withstand the elements, and can be left outside all year round. However, to keep your garden bench in pristine condition for as long as possible. There are some actions you should undertake to keep it looking its best for longer. You may also have a bench or other piece of wooden furniture which is not as durable as our offerings. And if that is the case then it is essential you know how to protect a wooden bench.
Maintenance is Essential
Prevention is the aim of the game with outdoor wooden furniture. This is especially true if your benches are in ares where vegetation can gather on the surface of it. The biggest culprits for this are usually the trees in your garden.
If this is a problem you have. Then regular cleaning of you bench can stop the sap, moss, dirt and grime accumulating on your furniture. Fortunately the required actions are simple. All you need is a scrubbing brush, which is not too abrasive, and warm soapy water.
Give all surfaces a thorough once over, ensuring all dirt has been removed. Then following this rinse with cold water to remove any soap with has been left behind. A quick clean doesn’t take long, doesn’t cost much, but ensures the life span of your bench is as long is it can be.
We would not recommend using any products more abrasive than soapy water to clean your wooden furniture. However, if there is a stain or mark you want removed, try the cleaning product on a surface on the underside of the furniture first. This will allow you to test whether or not the product strips the finish from the furniture before committing to its use.
Invest in a Cover
Wooden benches are designed to be kept outside. Even though they can be left exposed to the elements. If you are someone who wants to keep your bench looking as good as the day it arrived, then investing a cover for your bench is a great idea.
Our benches are designed to withstand the wind and the rain, but we can’t vouch for furniture purchased from other places! If you aren’t lucky enough to have somewhere to store your furniture through the winter months, or you don’t want the hassle of moving it in and out your shed or garage regularly, then purchasing a cover will give your furniture some added protections from the elements when it is not in use.
Treating the Wood
Another great way to increase the lifespan of your garden furniture is to treat it will oil or varnish. This process will create a protective barrier between the wood and the weather. What product you will use to treat the bench will depend on the type of wood your furniture is made from. Ensure you throughly research which product is best before undertaking any work. But if you’re stuck for ideas, read our basic guide on how to varnish a garden bench.
If you would like more detailed information on wooden furniture, get in contact with us. We can provide the hand carved wooden benches bespoke to your specifications.