When it comes to elevating your outdoor living space with the timeless beauty of Brazilian hardwood, it’s essential to ensure your investment stands the test of time. Brazilian Wood Depot, headquartered in Georgia, is your go-to source for premium Brazilian hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, Massaranduba, Tigerwood, Purpleheart, and Brown Balau. In this guide, we’ll delve into the art of weatherproofing your outdoor Brazilian wood furniture, whether it graces your deck, porch, or backyard.
Prepping and Gathering Supplies
Before embarking on the weatherproofing journey, gather the following essentials:
- Fine-grit sandpaper.
- A high-quality penetrating or top coat sealant, such as polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer.
- Solid color stain.
- Semi-transparent stain and sealer.
- Soft rags (an old T-shirt can serve this purpose).
- A paintbrush for precision.
- A sturdy cleaning brush.
- Wood stain, if you choose to enhance the wood’s natural beauty.
- A respirator mask for safety.
- Protective gloves to shield your hands during the process.
Keep in mind that proper ventilation is crucial while working with sealants to protect your health. Opt for the type of sealant that aligns with your desired finish, whether it’s a glossy or matte look.
Preparing the Brazilian Wood
If your Brazilian wood furniture has a prior coat of paint, initiate the process by giving it a thorough cleaning with wood-safe detergent, a cleaning brush, and water. Ensure at least three hours of drying time before applying any weatherproofing agents. In cases where the wood remains damp, exercise patience and allow for complete drying. Unpainted wood requires a simple cleaning with warm water and a cleaning brush, followed by overnight drying. A light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper comes next.
Whether or not you intend to stain the wood before sealing is a choice you’ll make at this stage. If staining is in your plan, apply the wood stain with a synthetic bristle brush after cleaning and sanding. Allow ample drying time before proceeding with sealants.
The Importance of Wood Sealants
Wood sealants are your secret weapon in preserving the natural allure of Brazilian wood. Unlike paint, they seal the wood, safeguarding it against rain and moisture. Some sealants also offer a degree of UV protection.
Varieties of Brazilian Wood Sealants
Different sealants are available, catering to specific project requirements and wood types:
- Polyurethane sealant, typically used for painted surfaces.
- Urethane sealants, available in oil or water-based variants, ideal for use with stains.
- Hardening oils, such as teak or tung oil, ensure longevity for your furniture.
Tips for Weatherproofing Brazilian Wood
Before applying sealants, ensure a clean, dust-free wood surface. Remove any loose paint or prior stains if your furniture had undergone previous treatment. While it’s not always necessary to strip the wood down to its bare form, uneven surfaces may demand additional sanding. If you wish to paint over a sealant, ensure the selected brand explicitly states compatibility with painting.
Select appropriate applicators for your chosen sealant, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Solid stains often negate the need for a separate sealant coat, while semi-transparent stains offer some protection but fall short of serving as robust sealants.
Moisture Control and Environmental Considerations
Before applying sealants, assess the moisture level of your Brazilian wood using a moisture meter. Ensure the moisture content remains below 15%, as higher levels can impede the absorption of stain and penetrating sealers. Additionally, high humidity or excessively dry conditions may affect the application process.
Choosing the Right Tools and Preparing Sealants
In most cases, applying sealants with a brush is the best approach. Synthetic brushes suit most sealers, while natural bristle brushes complement stain applications. Always stir the sealant before and during application to maintain its consistency. Avoid vigorous stirring to prevent bubbles from forming, which can mar the finish.
Applying the Final Touch
When applying sealant, work swiftly and consistently in one direction, refraining from back brushing as the product dries. Sanding between coats is often unnecessary unless imperfections demand attention. Avoid applying sealant under direct sunlight, and allow the wood to fully cure before placing heavy items or other painted materials on it. Confirm the effectiveness of your sealant by performing a water droplet test; properly sealed and dry wood will cause the water to bead on the surface.
