The Impact of Weather on Wooden Outdoor Furniture and Care Solutions

Wooden outdoor furniture isn't just a pretty face; it's a sturdy, stylish companion for your garden or patio. While plastic might seem like a cheaper option, wood's natural beauty, durability, and quality make it a standout. But don't let the weather dampen your outdoor joy! We'll dive into the challenges wooden furniture faces and share expert tips to keep it looking and feeling its best, rain or shine.

The Effects of Weather on Wooden Outdoor Furniture

A study published in the Elsevier Journal in 2021 highlighted wood's exceptional qualities, including its high strength, low weight, and reliability. These characteristics make wooden furniture an ideal choice for outdoor applications.

1. Sunlight (UV Rays)

Prolonged exposure to UV rays can have a detrimental impact on wooden furniture. Sunlight can cause the wood to fade, discolor, and lose its natural luster. Over time, the beautiful hue of the wood can become dull and unattractive. Sunlight can also dry out the wood, making it brittle and more likely to crack or break. Beyond the visual effects, structural damage can also occur. Wood that is constantly exposed to sunlight is at risk of losing its natural moisture content, making it more susceptible to cracking. While plastic furniture is more resistant to UV rays, it is prone to aesthetic damage such as fading or cracking due to the degradation of the plastic from heat.

2. Rain and Humidity

High levels of rain and humidity pose another challenge for wooden furniture. Wood has a natural tendency to absorb water, which can lead to swelling, warping, or even rotting if left wet for extended periods. Water penetrating the wood's pores can cause the furniture to deform, resulting in an uneven or damaged appearance. Moreover, high humidity can promote the growth of mold and mildew, which not only damages the aesthetics but also weakens the structural integrity of the wood. Although plastic furniture may be more resistant to rain, it is generally more brittle and less durable than wood in the long run.

3. Temperature Fluctuations

Extreme temperature changes, especially between day and night, can significantly impact wooden furniture. As the temperature fluctuates, wood naturally expands and contracts. This cycle can cause the wood to crack or loosen the joints of the furniture. For instance, during hot summer days followed by cool nights, wood can experience repeated stress, leading to small cracks that eventually compromise its strength. Unlike wooden furniture, plastic furniture may be more stable in fluctuating temperatures but is prone to deformation and cracking over time, especially when exposed to extreme temperatures.

4. Strong Winds

Strong winds can cause physical damage to wooden furniture, particularly if the furniture is not placed in a sheltered area. High winds can displace, topple, or even break parts of wooden furniture. Additionally, wind carries dust and sand particles that can scratch the surface of the wood, diminishing its beauty. While plastic furniture is lighter and easier to move, this also makes it more susceptible to being blown away by the wind, posing a risk of damaging the furniture or surrounding objects.

Caring for Wooden Outdoor Furniture

To ensure the longevity and beauty of your wooden outdoor furniture, proper care is essential.

1. Apply Protective Finish

Using a protective finish such as paint, varnish, or wood oil can help shield the wood from UV rays, moisture, and airborne debris. This protective layer acts as a barrier, preventing water from penetrating the wood's pores and reducing the risk of the wood drying out from sunlight.

2. Regular Maintenance

Regular cleaning and reapplication of the protective finish are crucial for maintaining the quality of your wooden furniture. This also involves repairing minor cracks or deformations caused by weather conditions.

3. Cover When Not in Use

Covering the furniture with a protective cloth or storing it in a sheltered area when not in use can significantly extend its lifespan. Shielding it from direct sunlight and rain will help prevent damage.

4. Place in a Sheltered Area

Positioning the furniture in a shaded area or under a roof can minimize exposure to the elements.

5. Proper Drying

After exposure to rain, promptly dry the furniture with a clean cloth to prevent water accumulation that can lead to rotting. This will also reduce the risk of mold or mildew growth.

6. Regular Repair and Renewal

Wood that shows signs of damage should be repaired promptly. Replacing damaged sections and renewing the finish periodically will help maintain the furniture's strength and aesthetic appeal.

In conclusion, while wooden outdoor furniture faces challenges from extreme weather conditions, it offers unmatched aesthetic appeal and durability when properly cared for. By following these care tips, you can ensure that your wooden outdoor furniture remains beautiful and functional for years to come. 

Recommendations for Teak Wood Furniture Stores

Now that you understand the impact of weather on outdoor wood furniture and its maintenance solutions, it's time to invest wisely. Find a wide selection of quality teak wood furniture at Kusuma Furniture, a trusted store that meets all your needs.

Registered: Jl. Dr. Susanto No. 81 Pati, Indonesia.
Operational: Jl. Penjawi 459A Pati, Indonesia
Factory: Ds. Ngabul RT.2 / RW.7 Ngabul Jepara, Indonesia
Office Phone: (+62) 295 383411
Factory Phone: (+62) 291 4260088
Web: https://www.kusumafurniture.com/