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How to
Stain Outdoor Furniture

Choosing expertly crafted furnishings designed to withstand both rain and shine is key to creating an outdoor space that's stylish, comfortable and enduring. One of our favorite things about hardwood outdoor furniture is the warm, rustic patina that it develops over time. But even with this natural color variation, you may want to give your outdoor pieces an occasional touch–up. These simple steps for refreshing the wood will keep your furniture looking vibrant and beautiful for years to come.

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Outdoor furniture
crafted of
hardwood
will naturally
develop a rustic,
timeworn patina.

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First, carefully clean the wood using soapy water and a clean brush. Then sand it with 120–grit sandpaper — easy to find at your local hardware store — to remove any loose paint and create an even surface.

Choose a semi–transparent stain like Benjamin Moore® Abercoat® Semi–Solid Stain in Chesapeake — specially designed to work beautifully with our Chesapeake Collection — and carefully apply a single coat in long strokes. Because the stain is formulated to sink deep into the wood, it protects and revives the furniture while still letting the wood's natural grain show through. Allow the stain to dry for 48 hours.

To prolong your furniture's durability and beauty, we recommend refreshing your weatherproof stain using these simple steps every three to five years. Between these refreshes, proper day–to–day care is key. Simply keeping furniture clean, using durable covers to protect it from harsh weather, and storing it indoors during the winter will keep it in beautiful condition for summer after summer of outdoor enjoyment.

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