Picnic tables are an essential part of many outdoor activities, from family gatherings and barbecues to games and social events. Whether your picnic table is made of wood or metal, it’s important to protect it from the elements. Using a sealer on your picnic table can help extend its life and keep it looking great for years to come. But what exactly is a picnic table sealer? And how do you go about using it? Read on to learn more about the benefits of using a picnic table sealer and how to apply one correctly.
Types of Sealers Used on Picnic Tables
When sealing a picnic table with a sealant there are two main types available: water-based or oil-based sealants. Water-based sealants provide good protection against moisture but tend to be less durable than oil-based products; however, they also dry faster and are easier to clean up afterward. Oil-based sealants provide superior protection against UV rays but take longer to dry completely. Ultimately, the type you choose will depend on your preferences – both offer excellent protection for your picnic table!
Advantages of Using a Sealer on a Picnic Table
Sealing your picnic table with either water or oil-based sealant has several advantages: it protects against moisture damage such as warping or cracking; helps repel dirt particles; preserves color by preventing fading; prevents staining from food spills; and protects against UV rays which can cause discoloration over time. Additionally, applying a sealant makes cleaning much easier – simply wipe away dirt with no harsh scrubbing required!
Disadvantages of Not Using A Sealer On A Picnic Table
Not using a sealant on your picnic table can lead to several problems down the line – without proper protection against moisture damage like warping or cracking can occur due to exposure to rain or snow which could shorten its lifespan significantly depending on weather conditions where you live. Additionally, stain prevention is key – without sealing food spills may soak into the wood leading them to become difficult (or impossible) to remove if left untreated for long periods causing discoloration that would otherwise be prevented had you used a product beforehand! In general not sealing leaves your furniture vulnerable so always consider investing in this simple yet effective solution before enjoying those summertime BBQs!
Steps Involved In Applying A Sealer To A Picnic Table
The first step in applying a sealant to your picnic table is to prepare the surface. Clean away any dirt, dust or debris from the wood using a soft cloth and mild cleaner such as dish soap, then allow it to dry completely before proceeding. Once the surface has been cleaned, you’re ready to apply the sealant. Depending on which type of sealant you choose – water-based or oil-based – follow manufacturer instructions for application. Generally speaking, it’s best to use a foam brush or roller for even coverage and avoid over-brushing which can cause streaks.
Once applied, allow sufficient drying time before placing items back on top of the table (check product instructions for specific drying times). After this point it’s important to re-apply every year or two depending on how often you use your picnic table – this will ensure maximum protection against moisture damage and other issues that can arise if left untreated!
Different Types Of Cleaning Products For Preparing The Surface For Sealing
When prepping the surface of your picnic table before applying a sealer there are several different types of cleaning products available depending on what type of material it’s made from:
- Wood tables: Use a mild detergent mixed with warm water and scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth before rinsing off with clean water and allowing time for drying.
- Metal tables: Start by wiping down the metal with soapy water using an old toothbrush for stubborn areas before rinsing off all residue and allowing time for drying too.
- Plastic tables: Begin by rubbing plastic surfaces with soapy water using either an old toothbrush or cloth – be sure not to rub too hard as this could cause scratches! Rinse off all residue afterward then let dry fully before sealing.
Types Of Stains That Can Be Prevented By Using A Sealer On A Picnic Table
A sealed picnic table offers superior protection against staining due to food spills, grease buildup and more – perfect for those summertime barbecues when things can get messy quickly! Common stains that can be prevented include BBQ sauce, ketchup/mustard/mayo, drink spills, cooking oil/grease build-up, bird droppings and much more – just wipe them away easily without fear they’ll seep into wood grain permanently!
Directions For How To Apply The Sealant Correctly And Safely
Applying sealant correctly is essential in ensuring your outdoor furniture lasts longer – follow these steps carefully to get optimal results:
- Start by preparing the surface according to the directions above then wait until fully dry before moving on to the next step;
- Shake the product vigorously before application as this helps disperse any solids that may have settled at the bottom during storage;
- Using either a foam brush or roller begin working the product into the wood in a circular;
- motion until the entire area is evenly covered;
- Allow product to dry according to manufacturer directions before using furniture and re-apply every 1-2 years depending on how often it’s used;
- Store any leftover sealant in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight – this helps prevent spoilage;
Conclusion: Summary And Importance Of Sealing Your Picnic Table
Picnic tables are an essential part of many outdoor activities, from family gatherings and barbecues to games and social events. Whether your picnic table is made of wood or metal, it’s important to protect it from the elements. Using a sealer on your picnic table can help extend its life and keep it looking great for years to come. There are two main types of sealers available – water-based or oil-based – both offering excellent protection against moisture damage, dirt particles, fading colors, staining and UV rays. Applying a sealant correctly is key in ensuring optimal results – use a foam brush or roller in a circular motion until the entire area is evenly covered then allow sufficient drying time before placing items back on top. Re-apply every year or two depending on usage for maximum protection!
