Is your outdoor chair and table set looking tired but you don’t want to, or can’t afford to, replace them? There are many amazing things you can do to revitalize them and make them last at least one more year. And it doesn’t need to cost a lot.
First of all, if you have plastic furniture there are now amazing spray paints that can brighten them up. Wash them good first and then rough up the surfaces with sanding paper so the paint will stick to it. Put the pieces in a well-ventilated location some distance from any walls or other furniture and spray outside on a calm day. If you have a respirator or mask it is a good idea to wear it over your nose and mouth. Cover the ground surface with newspapers. Be sure you have purchased paint that is made specifically for plastic. Spray back and forth slowly and evenly, then let it dry. You may not need a second coat but if you do be sure to allow plenty of time between applications.
Wooden furniture may be of pine, cedar or acacia, and also needs to be washed thoroughly before being painted. Use a soft-bristled brush if there are traces of stain or mildew. Don’t leave your wood unfinished or it will grey with age and be unattractive, so plan to apply a semi-transparent stain, varnish or oil to protect the surface and keep them in the shade most of the time.
Wicker furniture can also be revitalized. Vacuum it thoroughly, then wash it down gently. It needs to be kept in a covered place away from the sun and rain as it ages badly when exposed to the elements.
Metal furniture may have developed rust spots which need to be removed with a steel brush or sandpaper. There are many paints on the market today that protect wrought iron or steel furniture and make it look good.
If you do buy any new patio tables or chairs, remember teak is naturally waterproof because it has a high oil content. They do need to be cleaned with a specially formulated cleanser and they should be oiled at the beginning of each season.
Purchasing bright new covers and cushions – or making them yourself if you are sewing-savvy – is another way to breathe new life into old furniture. More helpful tips can be found at www.styleathome.com/outdoorliving.
Sit outside and analyze what you have before tossing it in the garbage or charity donation box. With a little ingenuity and effort, you might be able to put off the expense of purchasing new outdoor furniture until the end-of-season sales in the fall, or even for many years to come.
