How to protect PE rattan wicker furniture?

[dreeped]

   

I love these lounge pieces and the cat bed I bought from Bunnings. These will sit on my balcony and get the morning sun. Is there a product I can use to give the rattan UV protection and possibly moisture proof?

[MitchellMc]

Hi @dreeped,

Unless stipulated otherwise, these furniture pieces are typically a synthetic wicker-look product designed for outdoor use. As such, they don't require sealing or protection, unlike natural rattan. The will, over the years, break down like any resin/plastic furniture, so the best form of protection is to cover them when not in use with outdoor furniture covers. This not only keeps the sun off the furniture, which is the number one cause of degradation, but it also protects the furniture from dust and mildew growth.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[dreeped]

Thank you!

I do have one or two other pieces made with natural wicker. Is there any I can specifically for them?

[MitchellMc]

Are they painted or raw wicker @dreeped? Traditionally, natural wicker is protected with either a clear varnish or an oil, depending on whether you want a glossy sealed finish or a more natural look.

If the pieces are going to stay outdoors, even under cover, a clear exterior varnish provides the strongest protection because it creates a sealed barrier against moisture and UV. An exterior-grade marine varnish is often used for natural wicker because it flexes slightly and copes well with changes in temperature and humidity. It keeps the fibres from drying out and becoming brittle, which is one of the biggest problems with outdoor wicker.

If you prefer the wicker to look completely natural rather than glossy, you can use a penetrating oil. Raw linseed oil has been used for decades. It helps keep the fibres supple and slows the rate of UV damage, but it does not provide the same level of waterproofing as varnish. You will need to reapply oil more often, usually once or twice a year.

Before applying either product, make sure the wicker is clean and fully dry. Dust and dirt stop the finish from soaking in or bonding properly. Whichever option you choose, it will extend the life of natural wicker outdoors and help prevent cracking, fraying or fading.

Mitchell

[dreeped]

 This is the rattan product. The materials Rattan, Clear acrylic lacquer. I also have a light shade. I’ll look into the exterior-grade marine varnish