In the world of furniture manufacturing, there are companies that specialize in indoor furniture, outdoor furniture, and between the two there is a limited amount of crossover. Outdoor furniture is built differently than the indoor variety, and while you can always use outdoor furniture inside, the reverse isn’t always the case. If you’re debating moving some furniture outside for a party or a much longer period of time, learn what should and shouldn’t be used, and what can be done to better manage the elements.
Be a Material Girl:
You don’t have to be a Madonna to realize that some materials are better suited outdoors than others, depending on the type of furniture. Exterior materials must be strong enough to withstand varying temperatures, a certain amount of moisture from rain, dew, etc. and humidity
Common sense dictates that there are certain materials that should never be taken outside unless you are absolutely sure the weather will be perfect. For example, carpets are a mess when they get wet. It takes forever to dry and can mold, and also gets very stiff when cold. That’s why rugs that aren’t designed for the outdoors should stay indoors. Similarly, materials like suede, fleece, and dry materials should also not be brought outside. Companies make deep seat and cushion fabrics that mimic the feel of more luxurious materials, but are fully waterproof.
Then there are certain pieces that can be out in the open for limited periods of time before you need to worry. Wicker, for example, while technically considered patio furniture, is not as strong and holds up much better in sunrooms and away from prolonged exposure to sun and rain. Then there are things like fine pottery, ceramic and plastic pieces that are waterproof but not suitable as furniture, neither indoors nor outdoors. They are not strong enough to withstand extreme temperature changes or strong, inclement weather. Untreated metal is also fine to get wet for short periods, but for much longer you risk rusting.
Then there are those materials intended for use as outdoor furniture. Exterior materials are especially plentiful, but still look easy on the eye. You can see examples of tables, chairs, planters and more made from the following: treated wood and hardwoods, galvanized metal, powder coated metal (aluminum, wrought iron, zinc hardware), stone and cement (such as tables, benches and umbrella stands), marbles, clay, and reinforced ceramics (as planters), polyresin plastics, and waterproof nylon (used in canopies and as cushion covers).
This list only begins to scratch the surface of the multitude of materials that make up our lives. In general, use your best judgment about whether something can go outdoors. Be aware of weather patterns. If it’s really nice outside, you can be more forgiving with what you take outside as furniture. However, outside conditions can change quickly, so be vigilant.
wood treatment
The best thing you can repurpose to use as indoor furniture/outdoor furniture is wood. It’s no more difficult than adding a bit of varnish, and it could save you unnecessary purchases of new furniture. To get started, take a look at the wood you’re working with. Stay away from old wood that is in poor condition, as it will deteriorate at an even faster rate once it is brought outdoors. Next, check what species of wood you have. Some of the naturally strongest woods, such as teak, pine, cedar, and cypress, are excellent for the outdoors. These woods are already strong and durable on their own and require little additional protection. More delicate woods will require additional sealer and even then probably won’t last as long outdoors as hardwoods.
To begin the waterproofing process, you’ll need to coat the wood with a UV-resistant, fade-proof finish. Sand down any lacquer that may already exist on your furniture. Whatever the finish, it’s most likely meant for the interior, and while it will give furniture a rich shine, it’s not the right type of varnish to protect it from moisture and the elements outside. Once the surface is smooth, even and clean, you can apply a sealer, usually an oil-based varnish, unless you’re working with a wood that produces its own oils, such as teak and cedar furniture. Outdoor weather will dry out wood more quickly than furniture kept indoors, so it’s important to protect the surface and heartwood from cracking, rotting, and warping. Once it’s complete, you’re ready to go. From then on, simply oil and clean your wood furniture once or twice a year to keep it healthy.
