How to Paint an Outdoor Wooden Bench
Wooden benches in your yard or garden bring a certain charm to the landscape. However, when they become worn or their paint starts chipping paint, they can become an eyesore. Caring for outdoor wood furniture is not difficult but can be a bit time-consuming. With proper maintenance, your outdoor wooden bench can give you a lifetime of use. Prepare to spend at least a weekend preparing and painting your bench, and then sit back and enjoy the results. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Electric sander
- Medium- and fine-grained sandpaper
- Soft bristle brush
- Soft cotton rag
- Enamel primer paint
- Exterior enamel paint
- Paintbrush made for exterior enamel paint
- Dust or face mask
Instructions
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Remove old paint, if needed, by sanding the wood with medium-grain sandpaper. In areas where the sander won't fit, such as between slats, fold the sandpaper, slip through and work from both side of the slat.
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Sand any areas that can easily be reached again with fine grain sandpaper. This will ensure a smooth finish to the wood.
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Brush off any sawdust that is left on the wood with a soft bristle brush. Then wipe off any leftover residue with a clean, soft, cotton rag.
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Paint on a coat of enamel primer. Make sure to paint between slats and all ends of the wood. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's directions.
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Lightly sand the primer with medium-grain sandpaper after it has completely dried. This will help the paint to adhere to the wood better. Wipe off any sand residue with a soft, cotton rag.
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Paint the bench the color of your choice with exterior enamel paint. Enamel hardens and gives the wood a protective coating from the elements. Follow manufacturer's directions as to drying time and number of coats of paint.
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Tips & Warnings
Make repairs and check for splintered wood and mildew before starting to paint the wood.
Wear a dust mask when sanding, as the sawdust, paint dust or mildew on the wood can cause respiratory irritation when breathing it.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
