Exterior Guide

How to Stain Outdoor Wood Furniture

Outdoor wood furniture can fade, weather, and show signs of aging from sun, rain, and everyday use. Instead of replacing it, you can refresh the look and help protect the wood with exterior stain.

Whether you want the natural grain to show through or prefer a more opaque solid colour, Woodluxe® Exterior Stain gives outdoor wood furniture a fresh finish while helping protect it from UV exposure and mildew.

Before You Start

Staining outdoor wood furniture is a manageable weekend project when the surface is clean, dry, smooth, and properly prepared. Work in a well-ventilated area and always follow the label and Technical Data Sheet for the stain and prep products you choose.

Do not cover drying furniture with plastic or a tarp. It needs proper air circulation so the wood can dry thoroughly.

Tools and Materials

  • Plastic sheeting or surface protection
  • Tarp or drop cloth for the work area
  • Painter’s tape
  • Damp cloth
  • Coarse sandpaper, 40- to 80-grit
  • Fine sandpaper, 180- to 220-grit
  • 6.4 cm or 2.5-inch angle sash brush
  • 3.8 cm or 1.5-inch angle sash brush
  • Paint tray
  • Woodluxe® Exterior Stain
  • Woodluxe® exterior stain prep products

Choosing Stain Opacity

The right opacity depends on the condition of the furniture and how much natural wood grain you want to see.

Translucent

Allows the full beauty of the wood to show through. Best for newer wood in good condition and hardwoods such as mahogany, teak, and ipe.

Semi-Transparent

Allows most of the grain pattern and texture to show through. A strong option for softer woods such as cedar and pine.

Semi-Solid

Allows the wood texture and some grain pattern to show through. Useful when older wood needs a little more colour and coverage.

Solid

Allows texture to show while covering the grain. Best when you want more colour change or need to hide imperfections.

1

Prepare the Surface

Before staining, make sure the wood is completely dry and free of mould, mildew, dirt, and residue.

  • Check all visible surfaces and the underside of the furniture.
  • Clean mildew or mould stains before staining.
  • Use Woodluxe® All-in-One Wood Cleaner for stubborn staining or heavier buildup.
  • For mild mildew, use a solution of one part household bleach to three parts water.
  • Rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
  • Allow the furniture to dry completely before staining.

Tip: In cooler weather, move furniture indoors or into a garage, carport, or covered shelter so it can dry properly.

2

Sand the Wood Furniture

A smooth surface helps the stain apply more evenly and improves the final look.

  • If the old finish is in fair condition, sand with the grain.
  • Start with coarse 40- to 80-grit sandpaper.
  • Move to finer 180- to 220-grit sandpaper for a smoother finish.
  • An orbital hand sander can make the job easier on larger flat areas.
  • Remove sanding dust with a damp cloth and let dry.
  • If the old finish is in poor condition, remove it down to bare wood with Woodluxe® Wood Stain Remover.
3

Apply Exterior Wood Stain

The recommended method for staining outdoor wood furniture is by brush.

  • Apply stain in the direction of the wood grain.
  • Use a 2.5-inch angle sash brush for larger areas.
  • Use a 1.5-inch angle sash brush for smaller details, arms, legs, slats, and corners.
  • Work stain into the surface evenly.
  • Avoid heavy buildup, puddles, or missed areas.
  • Follow the product label for the correct application rate and number of coats.
4

Dry and Maintain

Let the stained furniture dry in a clean, dust-free, well-ventilated area.

  • Do not leave freshly stained furniture outside where wind can blow dust or debris onto the wet surface.
  • Check the can label or Technical Data Sheet for exact dry times.
  • Return furniture to use only after it has dried properly.
  • Place furniture away from roof or tree drip lines when possible.
  • Occasionally wash with Woodluxe® All-in-One Wood Cleaner to help maintain the finish.

Stain or Paint Outdoor Furniture?

If the furniture is wood, stain is often the best choice because it can protect and enhance the natural material. Translucent and semi-transparent stains show more grain, while solid stain gives more colour coverage and helps hide imperfections.

If the furniture is wicker, wrought iron, aluminum, plastic, vinyl, or metal, painting may be the better option. Visit Colour Land for surface-specific prep and product recommendations.

Quick Outdoor Furniture Staining Checklist

  • Make sure the wood is dry.
  • Clean mould, mildew, dirt, and residue.
  • Rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
  • Allow the furniture to dry completely.
  • Sand with the grain, starting coarse and finishing fine.
  • Remove sanding dust before staining.
  • Choose the right Woodluxe® colour and opacity.
  • Apply stain by brush in the direction of the grain.
  • Let the furniture dry in a clean, well-ventilated area.
  • Maintain occasionally with Woodluxe® All-in-One Wood Cleaner.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you prepare outdoor wood furniture for staining?

Make sure the wood is dry, clean, and free of mould or mildew. Clean with Woodluxe® All-in-One Wood Cleaner or a mild bleach-and-water solution for light mildew, rinse thoroughly, and let dry completely.

Do you have to sand outdoor furniture before staining?

Yes. Sanding helps create a smoother surface. Start with coarse sandpaper, then move to finer sandpaper before applying stain.

What is the best stain for outdoor wood furniture?

Woodluxe® Exterior Stain is a strong option because it protects and beautifies wood while offering a range of colours and opacities.

Is it better to stain or paint outdoor furniture?

For wood furniture, stain is often recommended because it enhances and protects the wood. For non-wood materials like metal, plastic, vinyl, or wicker, painting may be the better option.

Need Help With Outdoor Wood Furniture?

Visit Colour Land and we can help you choose the right Woodluxe® stain, colour, opacity, prep products, sandpaper, brushes, and maintenance products for your outdoor furniture.