Caring for exterior wood. Tips to maintain its beauty and durability

Wood is a noble and warm material that provides shelter and a sense of refuge and security in any indoor or outdoor space. Whether in the form of porches, fences, floors or furniture, wood harmonizes with nature. However, as it is an organic material, it is exposed to the effects of the climate, such as humidity, sudden changes in temperature, sun, or snow and frost. That is why proper maintenance is essential. In this article, we offer practical tips for caring for outdoor wood and ensuring its durability and strength. 

1. Choosing the right wood

When you decide to install a wooden structure outside, such as a tool shed or if you decide to extend the porch, for example, try to choose highly durable woods that are weather resistant. Some of the best options are oak (with high density and moisture resistance), chestnut (high tannin content, making it resistant to insects and fungi), teak (with natural oils that repel water) or woods such as iroko and ipé (tropical woods that withstand prolonged exposure to sun and rain).

2. Inspection and maintenance

To avoid major problems, it is important to act quickly and treat the wood to prevent the damage from spreading to signs such as:

• The presence of mould or fungi, which appear as whitish spots.
• Cracks or deformations, caused by moisture or the sun.
• Signs of insect attacks, which appear as small holes or accumulated sawdust. 

3. Proper cleaning and treatment

Cleaning is essential for keeping wood in good condition and is recommended once a year. To do this, we must remove dust and dirt with a string brush or a dry cloth, wash the surface with water, neutral soap and a little white vinegar and finally, rinse with plenty of water before applying treatment. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or high-pressure cleaners, which can damage the wood. 

When it comes to proper treatment, by applying protective products, we can extend the useful life of the wood. There are different options for this, such as:

• Natural oils such as linseed, teak or tung, which nourish the wood and enhance its natural colour.
• Lasures, which form a semi-transparent protective film that protects against moisture and UV rays.
• Special varnishes for exteriors.

To prevent the wood from drying out quickly, it is advisable to install awnings to reduce direct exposure to the sun, elevate furniture with rubber blocks to avoid direct contact with damp floors and use protective covers during the winter months. 

Taking care of wood outdoors not only improves its appearance, but also extends its useful life and avoids costly repairs. With a good choice of wood type, regular inspections, proper cleaning and protective treatments, you can enjoy the warmth of this material for many years to come. If you would like advice on which wood to install or how to install it, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will put you in touch with trusted, competent professionals who can help you through the process.