Paint can add a custom touch to unfinished outdoor furniture. But how can you make sure the paint will hold up to the elements?
Prep for Success. The key to a long-lasting finish lies in the prep work. It takes a little extra time, but the results will be well worth the effort.
Raw wood furniture is usually very smooth when you buy it, so start by roughing up the surface for better adhesion. We recommend using 120-grit sandpaper for this step.
After wiping off the dust with a tack cloth, apply oil-based primer and let it dry thoroughly. Oil-based primer protects the wood and serves as a good base for the paint.
Follow up the primer with an exterior latex paint in the color of your choice. Lightly sand the surface before applying a second coat.
If you follow these steps, you should be left with a painted finish that will hold up well to the elements. Then you’re ready to enjoy your stylishly updated outdoor furniture!
