When you create your timber project, you want to imagine that it will stand around forever! However, you can only make sure it’s long-lasting if you’re sure to treat and protect the wood that you use. Before you go to the timber merchants and stock up, let’s run through five common ways to ensure your wood is properly treated for sitting outside.

Wood oil

Wool oils are natural oils that are typically painted onto the surface of a wooden item,and then allowed to sink in. This will replace the oils that the wood had before it became weathered, and functionally protect the timber from the inside out.

Because oil is hydrophobic, wood oil also has the benefit of repelling any rain that may fall onto your items. This means that the wood will typically last longer. If you want to ensure that your wood is waterproof, opt for a blend of oil and resin.

Wood stain and dye

Wood stain and dye are essentially the same thing. Applying either of these options to your external wood will ensure that it’s protected both from weather and from foot traffic. You can also ensure that you select a stain or dye that compliments your wood, making it appear richer and warmer overall. You may also choose to opt for a wax-enriched stain for added waterproofing.

Stain and dye typically both offer quite long-lasting durability, making them a great choice for touch points in a garden, such as the edges of a raised bed.

Wood preserver

A wood preserver is something that isn’t used as commonly nowadays as in the past, but it’s still an impressive and functional product. It works very similarly to oils, whereby you add the preserver to the outside of the wood with the aim of soaking it.

Then, once the preserver is absorbed throughout the wood you’re treating, it will protect the whole product. For instance, it can make wood more resistant to mold, algae, and woodworms. It can also include UV protectors, which stop natural wood from fading and greying in sunlight.

Wood varnish

Wood varnish is the best choice for external wood which has previously been stained or otherwise treated. Essentially, it functions in much the same way as paint does, forming a layer on the outside of the wood. This varnish layer then provides high-performance protection against both light and water, ensuring the strength and coloration of the wood.

To get the best out of wood varnish, it’s wise to sand down the wood you’re working on ahead of time and fill in any cracks or divots with wood filler. That will lead to a smooth and even application.

Wood paint

Exterior wood paints are the best way to infuse a potent dash of color into your surfaces. A lot of external wood paint tones err on the side of natural earth tones, but you can also get bright colors if that’s what you’d prefer.

External wood paint is typically thick and should be applied to the outside of a fence panel with a large brush. The brush will be needed to squash the paint into the fence panels, which may take several coats. With each coat, the fence will absorb the paint similarly to oil and preserver, with a layer of pigment remaining on the outside. If you’re drastically changing the color of your fences, adding several layers of paint may be necessary before the color truly resembles the color you’re aiming for.

Treating the timber in and around your home is vital to ensure it lives a long life and stays as beautiful as it was when you completed the project. Consider the benefits of different wood treatment options and give your woodwork a boost!