Introduction
In this article, we will discuss the process of finishing outdoor cedar furniture builds with teak oil. Cedar wood is a popular choice for outdoor furniture due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. By allowing the furniture to naturally weather and gray out, it develops a beautiful patina over time. Once the desired aging process is achieved, applying teak oil provides protection and enhances the appearance of the furniture.
Key Points
Overview of Cedar Furniture Builds: The video creator enjoys making furniture out of cedar two by fours and fence pickets due to the contrasting sizes of the wood and its affordability. Cedar wood is known for its durability, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Allowing the Furniture to Age: Instead of finishing the furniture right away, the video creator prefers to let it sit and naturally gray out over time. This aging process gives the furniture a rustic and weathered look, which pairs well with the color palette in the backyard.
Importance of Teak Oil: Teak oil is chosen as the finishing product for the cedar furniture due to its ability to enhance the appearance, provide long-lasting protection, and repel water. Unlike polyurethane, teak oil allows for easy refinishing over time without the need for extensive prep work.
Initial Preparation: Before applying teak oil, it is essential to remove any excess dust and debris from the surface of the furniture using a broom or brush. Light sanding is also recommended to eliminate any burrs or rough spots that may catch on clothing.
Application Process: Teak oil is applied using a two-coat method. The first coat is applied heavily, allowing the oil to soak into the wood. It is crucial to ensure that all crevices are adequately saturated, especially in older and drier wood. After a 10-minute wait, a second coat is applied to cover any dry spots and ensure full saturation. The furniture is then left to sit for a short period before being wiped down.
Benefits of Teak Oil: The use of teak oil provides a beautiful sheen to the furniture, making it look brand new. Additionally, the oil acts as a water repellent, allowing rainwater to easily slide off the surface. This protection helps to maintain the furniture’s sturdiness and appearance for a longer duration.
Longevity of the Furniture: With proper care and maintenance, the cedar furniture can last for 15 to 20 years. However, the durability of the furniture may be affected by factors such as usage and spills, particularly in the case of the table. Regular oiling and periodic refinishing can help extend the lifespan of the furniture.
Step-by-Step Process
Prepare the Furniture: Remove any excess dust and debris from the furniture using a broom or brush. Lightly sand the surface to eliminate burrs or rough spots.
Apply the First Coat: Use a brush or rag to apply a heavy coat of teak oil to the furniture. Pay special attention to crevices and ensure that the wood absorbs an adequate amount of oil.
Allow Soaking: Let the first coat of teak oil sit for approximately 10 minutes to allow it to soak into the wood.
Apply the Second Coat: After the waiting period, apply a second coat of teak oil to cover any dry spots and ensure full saturation of the wood.
Let it Sit: Allow the furniture to sit for a short period to let the teak oil fully penetrate and enhance the wood’s appearance.
Wipe Down: Use a cloth or rag to wipe off any excess teak oil from the furniture’s surface.
Conclusion
Finishing outdoor cedar furniture builds with teak oil is a simple yet effective way to protect and improve the appearance of the furniture. By allowing the wood to age naturally and applying teak oil, the furniture develops a rustic and beautiful patina that adds character to any outdoor space. With regular maintenance and refinishing, these pieces of furniture can last for many years, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
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