Selecting the right paint for outdoor wood furniture in the UK is key to preserving its beauty and durability. As an expert in outdoor furnishings and coatings, I’ve tested various paints, considering factors like longevity, ease of application, and environmental impact. This article provides concise, well-researched recommendations to help you choose a paint that enhances and protects your outdoor wood furniture effectively.
Our Picks
We have compiled a comprehensive list of the top paints for outdoor wood furniture available in the UK, ensuring your furniture stays protected and looking fresh.
Furniture Clinic Wood Stain (Dark Oak)
No products found.
A highly concentrated, fast-drying, and easy-to-apply wood stain that can enhance and protect your outdoor wooden furniture.
Pros
- One coat colour with 12 available shades
- Quick drying in just 10 minutes
- Environmentally friendly and non-toxic
Cons
- May require multiple coats on MDF
- Potential for brush marks if not applied thinly
- Colour outcome may be darker than expected
This Furniture Clinic Wood Stain is an excellent choice for anyone looking to revamp their outdoor wood furniture. We recently used the Dark Oak shade on our garden chairs and were delighted with the rich colour and quick drying time the product provided. The water-based and non-toxic formula made it comfortable to work with, as well as feeling good about its eco-friendly aspects.
The application process was straightforward, with one coat providing an even colour coverage to the wooden surfaces. However, upon using it on MDF, we noticed that it might require a few more coats compared to real wood. Be sure to apply this wood stain thinly, as it could leave brush marks if not done carefully.
It is worth mentioning that the final colour might be slightly darker than anticipated, so it’s always a good idea to test it on a scrap piece of wood beforehand. Overall, we highly recommend the Furniture Clinic Wood Stain (Dark Oak) for its efficient, eco-friendly, and easy-to-apply features, making it a fantastic product for breathing new life into your outdoor wooden furniture.
Roxil Wood Waterproofing Liquid (5L Clear)
We highly recommend Roxil Wood Waterproofing Liquid for its effectiveness in protecting outdoor wood furniture.
Pros
- Waterproofs wood and maintains appearance
- Reduces mould and algae growth
- Long lifetime (10+ years on softwood)
Cons
- Slightly sticky consistency
- May require multiple coats for better coverage
- Might not suit all types of wood
We recently used Roxil Wood Waterproofing Liquid on our garden furniture and were quite impressed with its performance. This silicone-based product effectively waterproofs wood, protecting it from warping and discolouration. This feature is crucial in maintaining the appearance of outdoor wood furniture which is constantly exposed to harsh weather conditions.
What we appreciated most about Roxil was its ability to reduce organic growth, such as mould and algae, on our furniture. This not only keeps the items looking clean and fresh, but also limits any damage caused by these organisms. We found that the product lasts for an extended period, with its protection estimated to last over 10 years on softwood. This long-lasting effect makes it a cost-effective solution for outdoor wood furniture preservation.
However, Roxil had a slightly sticky consistency that might not appeal to everyone, but it didn’t bother us once it dried. We also noticed that painting multiple coats provided improved coverage, which may not be ideal for those in a hurry but it ultimately depends on your specific needs. Lastly, while it worked well on softwood, results may vary on other wood types, so be sure to test it out on a small area before applying it to the entire furniture piece.
Overall, Roxil Wood Waterproofing Liquid is a reliable and durable solution for protecting outdoor wood furniture in the UK. Give it a try if you want to keep your wooden items looking their best for years to come.
Ronseal 750 ml Satin Finish Quick Dry Woodstain – Natural Oak
The Ronseal Quick Dry Woodstain is an excellent choice for those seeking a fast-drying and protective stain for their outdoor wood furniture.
Pros
- Easy to apply and waterproofs wood effectively
- Suitable for both soft and hardwood surfaces
- Quick-drying – rainproof in just 30 minutes
Cons
- Colour might appear differently on various wood types
- Coverage may be limited, potentially requiring multiple coats
- Colour range might be insufficient for some preferences
We recently used the Ronseal Quick Dry Woodstain on our outdoor wood furniture, and we remain impressed by its appearance and performance. The stain is simple to apply, providing waterproof protection to both soft and hardwood surfaces. We appreciated that it was highly water repellent and became rainproof in just half an hour.
However, we noticed that the colour appeared slightly different on some wood types, so it’s essential to conduct a patch test before applying it to your entire furniture piece. Additionally, depending on the size and condition of your furniture, you may require multiple coats to achieve proper coverage, which can affect the overall cost of the project.
Nevertheless, the Ronseal Quick Dry Woodstain serves its purpose well, offering both colour and protection to our outdoor wood furniture. Although the available colour range may not cater to every preference, this quick-drying stain earns our recommendation for those seeking a reliable and efficient option for their outdoor wood surfaces.
Rust-Oleum Hessian Gloss Furniture Paint
This Rust-Oleum Hessian Gloss Furniture Paint is an excellent choice for those looking to rejuvenate their outdoor wooden furniture with a high-quality, long-lasting finish.
Pros
- Easy application with no primer or sanding needed on most surfaces
- Quick-drying and stain-resistant
- Certified Toy Safe and eco-friendly packaging
Cons
- May require multiple coats for full coverage
- Glossy finish might not suit all personal preferences
- Limited colour options
We recently used Rust-Oleum’s Hessian Gloss Furniture Paint to bring new life to our worn-out garden table and chairs. The application process was a breeze, as there was no need for primer or sanding on our wooden surfaces. The water-based formula had a high pigment content, which meant that it provided an outstanding colour payoff.
The paint dried quickly, allowing us to apply additional coats in a short amount of time. We were pleased to find that the finish was stain-resistant, which will be a huge advantage in our often unpredictable UK weather. Moreover, it is reassuring to know that the product is certified Toy Safe and comes in eco-friendly packaging, demonstrating Rust-Oleum’s commitment to sustainability.
One drawback we noticed was that the glossy finish might not be to everyone’s taste; however, this ultimately comes down to personal preference. Additionally, the colour options available were somewhat limited, which may be a concern if you are looking for a specific shade. It’s worth noting that for optimal coverage, multiple coats might be necessary, particularly on less-absorbent surfaces.
In conclusion, Rust-Oleum’s Light Brown Furniture & Skirting Board Paint in Gloss Finish – Hessian 750ml is an excellent option for anyone looking to revive their outdoor wooden furniture. The ease of application, stain-resistant finish, and sustainability factors make it a reliable and eco-conscious choice.
HQC Barn Paint 5L – Racing Green
We recommend this paint for its excellent coverage, environmental-friendliness, and protective capabilities, though it might be slightly costly.
Pros
- Easy to apply and quick-drying
- Safe for plants and animals
- Reduces moss and algae growth
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Some may experience uneven paint distribution
- Limited colour selection
After using the HQC Barn Paint on our outdoor wooden furniture, we were impressed by its ease of application and quick drying time. As a water-based acrylic paint, it’s safe for both plants and animals, giving us peace of mind when using it on our garden furniture.
What sets this paint apart is its anti-fungicidal additives, which help reduce the buildup of moss and algae on surfaces. This is an essential feature for outdoor furniture in the UK, where damp conditions are common. Though it’s billed as a barn paint, this product works well on a wide range of surfaces, such as wood, concrete, and brick.
However, there are a few drawbacks we noticed when painting our furniture. The paint is slightly expensive compared to other options, but the quality and durability make it worth the investment. Additionally, there might be some unevenness in the paint distribution, requiring an extra coat in some areas. Finally, the colour selection is limited, but if you appreciate the Racing Green shade, this might not be an issue.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, environmentally-friendly paint for your outdoor wood furniture, HQC Barn Paint 5L is worth considering. Its protective features and ease of use make it a suitable choice for garden enthusiasts across the UK.
Ronseal 10 Year Weatherproof Wood Paint Black Satin 750ml
Ideal for achieving a satin finish on outdoor wood furniture, this Ronseal paint provides long-lasting protection without the need for a primer.
Pros
- No primer required, even on bare wood
- Weatherproof in just 1 hour
- Drip resistant, and prevents cracks, peels, and blisters for 10 years
Cons
- Colour: Limited to black
- Slightly tacky finish for some users
- Potential inconsistencies in different batches
This Ronseal 10 Year Weatherproof Wood Paint provides a satin finish for outdoor wood furniture, making it an attractive and functional option. We’ve found that it is quite easy to apply, even on unpainted wooden surfaces, without the need for any primer. The water-based formula ensures a quick one-hour weatherproofing, which is quite impressive.
The paint boasts a drip-resistant property, which prevents messy drips and runs during application. Additionally, it prevents any cracks, peels, and blisters for up to 10 years, giving you peace of mind that your furniture will look its best for years to come.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that the colour choice is limited to black, which may not suit everyone’s style preferences. A few users have reported experiencing a slightly tacky finish, which could potentially be due to inconsistencies in different batches. However, the majority of customers seem to have a positive experience with this paint.
In conclusion, if you’re after a durable and easy-to-apply paint for your outdoor wood furniture, the Ronseal 10 Year Weatherproof Wood Paint in black satin is a reliable option. Just keep in mind that there could be small variations in the finish, and the colour choice is limited to black.
Johnstone’s Quick Dry Satin – Brilliant White
A versatile and cost-effective paint option for refreshing your outdoor wood furniture with a stylish and durable finish.
Pros
- Quick-drying and easy to apply
- Resistant to cracking, peeling, and heat up to 120°C
- Wide range of colours and finishes available
Cons
- May require multiple coats for even coverage
- Possibly not as long-lasting as oil-based paints
- Colour may differ slightly from the advertised shade
We recently tried Johnstone’s Quick Dry Satin and found it to be an excellent choice for giving a fresh lease of life to our exterior wood and metal furniture. The paint’s unique formula made it resistant to a variety of elements, including rust, scratches, and dust, which ensured our furniture remained looking pristine.
The quick-dry feature was one of the aspects we loved about this paint. As soon as we applied it to the surfaces, it dried to the touch within just 1-2 hours, meaning no time was wasted waiting for the paint to dry before moving on to other tasks. Additionally, the water-based paint had a low odour and was easy to apply, making it a hassle-free option for interior use as well, with a coverage of 13m2 per tin.
One downside we noticed was that, on certain surfaces, the paint required multiple coats to achieve an even coverage. However, this was a minor issue considering the reasonable price of the product and its overall performance. It is also worth noting that the final colour might slightly differ from the advertised shade. Overall, we can confidently recommend Johnstone’s Quick Dry Satin for anyone looking to revamp their outdoor wood and metal furniture with a touch of style while enjoying the benefits of durability and resistance that this paint has to offer.
Ronseal 10 Year Weatherproof Paint, Duck Egg Blue, 750ml
If you’re looking for durable and easy-to-apply paint for your outdoor wood furniture, this Ronseal paint is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- No primer needed
- Weatherproof in just 1 hour
- Drip resistant and lasts up to 10 years
Cons
- May require multiple coats for even coverage
- Stirring well before use is necessary
- Slight difficulty when applying to untreated surfaces
This Ronseal 10 Year Weatherproof Paint in Duck Egg Blue, with a satin finish, has truly impressed us. We found that it was weatherproof within just an hour of application, which is a huge advantage, especially in the unpredictable UK weather.
One of the best things about this paint is that it doesn’t require a primer, even on bare wood. We did, however, notice that the paint needed some thorough stirring before use, and that it occasionally took multiple coats to get complete, even coverage.
Despite the minor hiccups, the final results were more than satisfactory. The paint had a lovely satin finish and was crack-resistant and long-lasting. We tested it on various wooden surfaces, both bare and previously painted, and it held its own in terms of durability.
In conclusion, the Ronseal 10 Year Weatherproof Paint offers a great option for outdoor wood furniture protection. It’s easy to apply, dries quickly, and provides long-lasting protection. If you can look past stirring it well and potentially needing extra coats for full coverage, this paint is well worth considering.
Johnstone’s Garden Colours – White Orchid Exterior Wood Paint
This paint is an exceptional choice for outdoor wood furniture, providing vibrant colour and durable protection.
Pros
- Fade-resistant and long-lasting
- Allows the natural grain of the wood to show through
- Easy application and dries quickly
Cons
- May require multiple coats for optimal coverage
- Colour may vary slightly from expectations
- Limited to wood surfaces
We recently used Johnstone’s Garden Colours in White Orchid on our garden furniture and were delighted with the results. The paint was easy to apply and dried relatively quickly, allowing us to complete the project in a single day. This paint really brought our outdoor space to life, giving our furniture a fresh and appealing look.
The paint did require a couple of coats to achieve a full and even coverage, but it was a small price to pay for such an impressive outcome. We were particularly impressed by how the natural grain of the wood remained visible, giving the furniture a polished yet natural appearance. It is also important to note that this paint is specially designed for outdoor wood surfaces, so it may not be suitable for other surfaces or materials.
Overall, we were thrilled with the final results of our outdoor furniture makeover using Johnstone’s Garden Colours. If you’re seeking to revitalise and protect your outdoor wood furniture, we highly recommend giving this paint a try. Just be prepared to apply a few coats for optimal results, and keep in mind the colour may differ slightly from your expectations.
HQC Fence Paint and Garden Shed Paint 0.5L
An excellent choice for those in need of durable, versatile paint for outdoor wood furniture with appealing colour options.
Pros
- Waterproof and provides UV protection
- Suitable for wood, brick, and terracotta surfaces
- Quick-drying with a matte finish
Cons
- Slightly higher price than some alternatives
- Colour might appear different in the tin
- Could require more than one coat for full coverage
Having recently used the HQC Fence Paint and Garden Shed Paint extensively on our garden furniture, we were genuinely impressed with its performance. Our wooden patio set didn’t just receive a new lease of life, but it also benefitted from the paint’s waterproof properties and UV protection, ensuring its longevity.
This paint’s versatility was a significant advantage as well, given that we could apply it to wood, brick and terracotta surfaces. Due to this, we even managed to spruce up some decorative brick planters in our garden. Moreover, the quick-drying formula meant we could complete our garden revamping in just a short time, leaving us ample opportunity to admire and enjoy the results.
Despite being slightly pricier, HQC Fence Paint and Garden Shed Paint offered a rich and diverse colour range that we found quite appealing. The matte finish provides an elegant and stylish look to our outdoor space, though it’s important to note that you might need more than one coat for complete coverage.
In summary, the quality, versatility, and array of stylish colours found in the HQC Fence Paint and Garden Shed Paint makes it a superb choice for those looking to protect and enhance their outdoor wood furniture in the UK. Just be prepared to potentially apply more than one coat and pay a little extra for these benefits.
Buying Guide
As you search for the perfect paint for your outdoor wood furniture, there are various factors to consider ensuring that the chosen product offers the desired look and protection. In this Buying Guide, we will discuss the important features to look for when choosing the best paint for outdoor wood furniture.
Weather Resistance
The primary purpose of using paint for outdoor wood furniture is to protect it from the elements. When selecting a paint, it is crucial to choose one with high weather resistance. Look for paints that offer protection against UV rays, mould, and moisture, as these factors can cause the wood to fade, warp, and rot over time.
Durability
The durability of the paint is an essential factor, as it directly impacts how long the paint will last on your outdoor wood furniture. Choose a paint that is designed to withstand wear and tear from everyday use and maintain its appearance for a longer period. Quality paints often state their durability through the years of protection they offer.
Finish Type
Different types of finishes serve various purposes and suit diverse preferences. Common finishes for outdoor wood furniture include matte, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Matte finish provides an understated, natural look, while satin and semi-gloss finishes offer a slight sheen for a more refined appearance. Gloss finishes provide the highest level of shine and are easier to clean, making them practical for frequently used furniture.
Application Method
Consider the ease of application when selecting a paint for outdoor wood furniture. Some paints come as ready-to-use products that can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed directly onto the surface. Others require a primer beforehand for additional adhesion and protection. Be sure to choose a paint that suits your level of expertise and the available tools to ensure a successful and lasting paint job.
Drying Time
The drying time of the paint is an important consideration, as it affects the overall project duration. Opt for paints with quicker drying times if you wish to complete your project swiftly. Nevertheless, bear in mind that some fast-drying paints might not offer the same level of protection as slower-drying alternatives.
By carefully considering these factors, you can confidently choose the best paint for your outdoor wood furniture, ensuring a stunning look and long-lasting protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most durable paint for outdoor wooden furniture?
For outdoor wooden furniture, we recommend using a paint that has high durability and resistance to weather elements. Acrylic latex paint is a popular choice for its long-lasting and protective qualities. But for optimal protection, always ensure you use a high-quality paint brand specifically designed for outdoor wood furniture.
Which type of paint is best for exterior wood furniture?
Acrylic latex paint is considered the best type of paint for exterior wood furniture due to its excellent durability and weather resistance. It’s easy to clean, dries quickly, and provides UV protection, which prevents the colour from fading due to sun exposure.
Is oil-based or water-based paint better for outdoor wood?
While both oil-based and water-based paints have their advantages, water-based paints (such as acrylic latex paint) are generally preferred for outdoor wood furniture. They offer better UV protection, dry faster, and are more resistant to mould and mildew growth. However, oil-based paints can provide exceptional durability and a smooth finish, but they generally take longer to dry and might require more maintenance.
Which brands offer high quality garden furniture paint in the UK?
Several brands in the UK offer high-quality garden furniture paint. These brands offer a wide selection of colours and finishes that cater to various outdoor wood furniture types and styles.
How do I choose the right colour for my outdoor wood furniture?
When choosing a colour for your outdoor wood furniture, consider the theme and overall aesthetic of your outdoor living space. Think about the colour schemes of your garden or patio, as well as the surrounding foliage and flowers. It’s also essential to consider how the paint will look under different lighting conditions. Test a sample of the paint colour on a small portion of the furniture before committing to it.
What is the best way to apply paint on metal garden furniture?
To ensure a smooth and even finish when painting metal garden furniture, begin by cleaning and sanding the surface to remove dirt, rust, and any flaking paint. Apply a metal primer to help the paint adhere to the surface. Once the primer is dry, use a high-quality paintbrush or spray paint specifically designed for metal surfaces to apply thin, even layers of paint. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next one, and finish with a clear sealer if necessary for added protection.
