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How to restore outdoor table & chairs?

Hi, I have an old outdoor table & two chairs bought from Bunnings many years ago. It’s still strong but looks terrible. Could anyone suggest a stain, preferably to lighten it (although not totally necessary)

so that it fits in with our other furniture. I’ve tried sanding it unsuccessfully. I’ll be looking for something new if it’s beyond help! Thanks.

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Comments

Jason

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @AnnieH1. We're pleased to have you join us and look forward to reading about all your projects and plans for around the house and garden.

Can you please tell us about your "unsuccessful" sanding attempt? Were you trying to sand by hand or using a sander? What grit paper were you using? Sanding is definitely the key to reviving timber furniture and will be a lot easier with an electric sander. You would start with something like 80 grit to get back to the bare wood and then move onto something like 120 to ensure a smooth finish.

Have a look at the helpful advice from resident Bunnings D.I.Y. expert Mitch in the Best Advice article How do you restore timber outdoor furniture? and let us know how we can help further with some outdoor furniture oil recommendations. You might also like to share a photo of what you are trying to match.

Thanks,

Jason

AnnieH1

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/45368#Comment_45368

Thanks for your reply. I was using an old orbital sander & 80 grit paper (photo attached). The paper came off & wedged itself between the slats so I thought it wasn’t the right thing to use. I’ll give it another go.

My other outdoor furniture is the same colour as our wooden shed which is stained in Ultra Deck Cedar Cypress. I was hoping to go for something more this shade but the table & chairs are very dark so

maybe not possible.
Anne

EricL

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/84799#Comment_84799

Hello @AnnieH1

Thanks for sharing your question about restoring your furniture. It appears that the original seal of the timber has given way Jason's advice is very sound regarding sanding the surface down. However, I noticed your orbital sanders backing pad has lost its Velcro surface. I suggest bringing your sander to the store and speaking to the tool specialist and seeing if three is a compatible backing pad for your sander. You also have the option of ordering a proper replacement part from DeWalt.

Technically your sanding pad is supposed to anchor onto the backing pad of your sander. This will prevent it from flying off or getting stuck in your furniture. Once you've sanded your furniture, I suggest visiting your local store and having a look at the stain and varnish sealers for furniture.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

AnnieH1

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/107478#Comment_107478

Thanks Eric. I’ll take it into the shop & ask.
Anne

EricL

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/120991#Comment_120991

Hi @AnnieH1

Please keep us updated with your progress, we look forward to seeing your furniture restored.

Eric

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