If your outdoor timber furniture is looking drab out in the backyard, but it’s still in sturdy condition, don’t ditch it because it’s looking weathered.
WATCH: How to upcycle old furniture
Make use of your outdated tables, chairs, benches, and sun lounges by giving it a second life!
Restoring your weathered furniture to like-new, richly coloured condition doesn’t have to be time consuming or hard work. Just clean and coat – you’ll be wowed by the transformation. So, why not set aside a little time this weekend to show your old furniture some love.
Gather your supplies
- Garden hose or pressure washer
- Sikkens Cetol BL Garden Furniture Cleaner
- Stiff bristle brush
- Drop sheet
- Paintbrush
- Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro in Teak (used here) or colour of your choice
Note: This water-based finish allows re-coating within two hours compared to oil-based stains that need up to 24 hours.
Here’s how
Step 1 Wet the timber to delay drying out during the cleaning process. Avoid working in extremely hot conditions.
Step 2 Following the product directions, apply Cetol BL Garden Furniture Cleaner to the timber and work it in with a stiff bristle brush. Leave cleaning product to activate for 15 to 30 minutes.
Step 3 Rinse away the residue with garden hose and brush or pressure washer. Let dry completely.
Step 4 Lay out drop sheet. Using paintbrush, apply a liberal coat of Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro, working in the direction of the timber grain. Let dry for 2 hours.
Step 5 Repeat Step 4 to apply two more coats. Let dry after each coat.
Tip: While this coating is long lasting and durable, a regular maintenance plan will keep it looking schmick. Once a year, give the timber a light sand with fine-grit sandpaper. Wipe away dust. Apply 1-2 coats of Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro. Let dry after each coat.
Looking for more ways to upcycle old furniture? Why not give these a go:
How to upcycle an old dresser into a desk
How to upcycle a wardrobe door mirror