WINTERIZING OUTDOOR LIVE EDGE PINE, OAK, FIR AND REDWOOD FURNITURE

Winterizing outdoor furniture made from live edge pine, oak, fir, and redwood is crucial to protect it from the elements. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Materials Needed:

Soft-bristled brush or cloth
Mild soap or wood cleaner
Sandpaper (medium grit)
Exterior wood sealant or finish
Paintbrush or applicator pad
Plastic sheeting or tarp
Rubber gloves (if using sealants)

Steps:

Clean the Furniture:
- Brush off any debris using a soft-bristled brush or cloth.
- Use a mild soap or wood cleaner mixed with water to gently scrub the surface. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely.
Sand Rough Surfaces:
- Inspect the furniture for any rough patches or splinters.
- Lightly sand these areas using medium-grit sandpaper until smooth.
Choose a Sealant or Finish:
- Select an exterior-grade sealant or finish suitable for the wood type (pine, oak, fir, or redwood).
- Make sure it provides protection against UV rays, moisture, and temperature changes.
Apply the Sealant:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the chosen sealant or finish.
- Use a paintbrush or applicator pad to evenly apply the sealant on the entire surface of the furniture.
- Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat for better protection. Allow proper drying time between coats.
Cover or Store:
- When not in use during winter, consider covering the furniture with plastic sheeting or a tarp.
- Store the furniture in a sheltered area if possible to protect it further from harsh winter conditions.
Regular Maintenance:
- Throughout the winter, periodically check the furniture for any damage or wear on the finish.
- Touch up any areas that show signs of wear by lightly sanding and reapplying the sealant as needed.

Recommended Sealants or Finishes:

Wood Type	Sealant/Finish
Pine	Spar urethane or marine varnish
Oak	Teak oil or polyurethane
Fir	Tung oil or outdoor wood sealer
Redwood	Linseed oil or clear penetrating sealer

Remember, proper maintenance and periodic reapplication of sealants will help preserve the beauty and longevity of your outdoor live edge wood furniture, especially during winter when it’s exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Custom Milled Slabs

Request A Quote

About The Author

Toby Bachara

putting slabs together with the domino tool

Toby is the master carpenter and creative force behind Mountain Dog Millworks. With decades of experience in woodworking, Toby has honed his craft to perfection, combining traditional techniques with modern innovation. His deep passion for working with wood began at a young age, and over the years, he has developed a keen eye for detail and a profound respect for the natural beauty of timber. Toby is dedicated to sustainability, sourcing all his materials from responsibly harvested timber on his mountain estate in Tehachapi, California. Every piece he creates reflects his commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and environmental stewardship. Whether it’s crafting custom furniture, unique woodworks, or sharing his knowledge through ‘Toby’s Toolshed,’ Toby’s expertise and love for the craft are evident in every project. Through his blog posts, Toby shares his extensive knowledge of woodworking, offering insights into the intricacies of the craft, the importance of sustainable practices, and the stories behind each creation at Mountain Dog Millworks.

At Mountain Dog Millworks, we specialize in custom millworks, handmade timber creations, and artisan wood products crafted from local sustainably harvested wood. Whether you’re looking for live edge slabs for sale, custom dining tables, or reclaimed wood creations, our Tehachapi woodworking shop delivers exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Serving Tehachapi, Southern California, and beyond, we offer kiln-dried timber slabs, personalized timber creations, and made-to-order wood products to elevate your space. Explore our range of sustainable pine slabs, redwood mantels, and custom furniture designs for your home or business. Let us create something extraordinary for you today!