A faded bench When people buy a bench from us they usually ask how long the finish will last, and what they have to do to maintain it. The answer to the first question is about a year. Here’s what we recommend regarding the the second question.
After a good scrubbing About once a year your bench should be cleaned. Mix 1/4 cup of TSP all purpose cleaner with 1 gallon of warm water. Set the bench on a driveway or patio and, using a stiff-bristle brush scrub all of the surfaces thoroughly. The bench seat and back typically take the worst beating from the elements, so give them an especially good brushing. Rinse the bench with a strong spray from your garden hose (you can also use a pressure washer, but don’t overdo it). Finally, set it in the sun to dry.
When your bench is completely dry, coat it with an exterior penetrating oil finish. There are numerous commercial products available from brands like Cabot, Penofin and Sikkens, and they run from the $35 per gallon range and up. If you can find a product in quarts, one quart will give you three rounds of refinishing. These products also come in various tints. Your bench was originally finished in Cabot Woodtone Deck and Siding Finish, with the tint labeled “natural”. We suggest that you talk to a local paint retailer about your options, then follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for applying their product to your bench.
When your bench is completely dry, coat it with an exterior penetrating oil finish. There are numerous commercial products available from brands like Cabot, Penofin and Sikkens, and they run from the $35 per gallon range and up. If you can find a product in quarts, one quart will give you three rounds of refinishing. These products also come in various tints. Your bench was originally finished in Cabot Woodtone Deck and Siding Finish, with the tint labeled “natural”. We suggest that you talk to a local paint retailer about your options, then follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for applying their product to your bench.
A restored bench After refinishing let the new finish dry completely. This usually takes about 24 hours. This is a good time to snug up the 1/2 inch nuts that hold the leg assemblies together, but again, don’t overdo this.
With regular maintenance your Leopold bench from Pleasant Lake Hardwoods should give you many years of comfortable outdoor seating.
With regular maintenance your Leopold bench from Pleasant Lake Hardwoods should give you many years of comfortable outdoor seating.
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