How To Stain Outdoor Wooden Table - Outdoor Lighting Ideas

How to Stain Outdoor Wooden Table: A Guide for Beginners

Outdoor wooden tables are a great addition to any patio or garden, but they can take a beating from the elements. Sun, rain, and wind can all cause the wood to fade, crack, and rot. Staining your outdoor wooden table is a great way to protect it from the elements and keep it looking its best.

With a little planning and preparation, you can easily stain your outdoor wooden table yourself.

1. Choose the Right Stain

The first step is to choose the right stain for your table. There are two main types of stains: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based stains penetrate the wood more deeply and provide a more durable finish, but they can be more difficult to apply and take longer to dry. Water-based stains are easier to apply and dry quickly, but they don't penetrate the wood as deeply and may not last as long. In addition, oil-based stains are more likely to fade in the sun, while water-based stains are less likely to do so.

Choose a stain that is specifically designed for outdoor use. Exterior stains are formulated to resist the sun, rain, and other elements.

2. Prepare Your Table

Before you can apply the stain, you need to prepare your table. First, clean the table with a mild detergent and water. Be sure to rinse the table thoroughly and let it dry completely before you proceed.

If your table is new, you may need to sand it lightly to remove any rough spots.

3. Apply the Stain

When you're ready to apply the stain, follow these steps:

Stir the stain thoroughly before you begin.
Apply the stain evenly to the table with a brush or roller.
Work in small sections, and be sure to apply the stain in the direction of the grain.
Allow the stain to dry completely before you apply a second coat.

The number of coats of stain you need to apply will depend on the type of stain and the desired finish. In general, you should apply at least two coats of stain.

4. Protect Your Table

Once you've applied the stain, you need to protect your table from the elements. You can do this by applying a sealer. A sealer will help to keep the stain from fading and will also protect the table from the sun, rain, and wind.

Apply the sealer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

5. Maintenance

To keep your outdoor wooden table looking its best, you should clean it regularly with a mild detergent and water. You should also apply a sealer every year or two.

By following these steps, you can easily stain your outdoor wooden table yourself and keep it looking its best for years to come.