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How to make old outdoor timber furniture look new again

Rejuvenate your outdoor setting quick-smart! - by Gavin Kirk
  • 15 Jun 2021

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Make use of your outdated tables, chairs, benches, and sun lounges by giving it a second life!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.

...

Before: Looking drab

Supplied
...

After: Just like new!

Supplied

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: 

5 ways to upcycle glass jars

How to upcycle an old dresser into a desk

How to upcycle a wardrobe door mirror

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