I have a question about a bench?

Question

I got a bench at a yard sale that is wooden and it is solid and the wood is hard. I want to know if ti would stand up to the weather outside. I have the perfect spot for it in my garden but I don't know if it would stand up outside. What do you think?

Answer 1

Wood will degrade outside. Adding a preservative and finish will help keep it nice longer, but eventually.. it will either need refinishing or replacement.

Look at it from this standpoint: If it lasts a year, is it worth what I paid for it? Will I get a year's worth of enjoyment by placing it in that "perfect" spot??? probably so-

For the longest life, I'd recommend putting blocks or bricks, buried in the soil under the wooden legs of the bench. Be sure that they are all level with one another. This will stabilize the bench and keep moisture from the soil from wicking into the wood.

Moisture in wood tends to create rot. Everything you can do to keep the wood dry will make it last longer.

Answer 2

How well the wooden bench will weather outside will depend on the type of wood and if any preservatives have been added. As a precaution, paint the bench with a clear wood preservative.

Answer 3

Any kind of outdoor furniture needs protection from the elements otherwise the wood will deteriorate very quickly. To preserve wood use a penetrating oil based stain. For a bench its important that the stain does not discolor clothing when sitting on it. I used a stain from Sikkens ' Cetol 1'. The bench stands in pouring rain but the water just sits on top. This stain comes in various colors.

Answer 4

Try it...what else will you do with it??