Protect Your Outdoor Wooden Furniture in Autumn

As autumn arrives, changes in temperature, humidity, and environmental conditions can significantly affect wooden furniture.

At Balear Invest, we explain how to preserve the beauty and longevity of your wooden furniture throughout the autumn season.

Protection Against Humidity

One of the main factors to consider in autumn is humidity. Both inland and coastal towns in Mallorca experience increased humidity with the arrival of rain and the drop in temperatures. Wood is a material that tends to absorb moisture from the environment, which can cause it to swell, warp, or crack depending on the type of wood and its exposure.

To prevent these issues, it’s essential to protect wooden furniture from excessive humidity. If you have outdoor furniture outdoors - on a terrace or in a garden, consider moving it indoors or covering it with breathable waterproof tarps. For furniture indoors but near windows or doors where moisture can enter, ensure adequate ventilation to avoid moisture build-up.

Temperature Control

Sudden temperature changes are another enemy of wood. In autumn, Mallorca can have warm days and cool nights, causing fluctuations that can affect wooden furniture. These changes may cause the wood to contract and expand, leading to cracks or warping over time.

One way to avoid such damage is to maintain a consistent temperature in the spaces where your wooden furniture is located. While controlling the outdoor climate is challenging, indoors, it’s advisable to avoid sudden temperature shifts.

Regular and Proper Cleaning

Cleaning is an essential step in maintaining wooden furniture during autumn. With the change of season, dust, dirt, or dry leaves may accumulate on furniture surfaces, especially for those near windows or outdoors. To prevent these elements from damaging the wood or its finish, regular cleaning is crucial.

For cleaning wooden furniture, it’s recommended to use a soft, slightly damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemical products, as they can damage the wood’s finish or strip away its natural protective oils. Instead, opt for specific wood cleaners with gentle, non-abrasive ingredients.

If your furniture has stubborn stains, try homemade solutions like a small mix of warm water and vinegar, applied with a soft cloth. After cleaning, ensure the furniture is thoroughly dried to prevent moisture from being trapped in the wood.

Hydration and Nourishment for the Wood

Wood, being a natural material, requires nourishment to maintain its elasticity, shine, and durability. In Mallorca, wooden shutters are a common sight in village houses and are increasingly popular in cities as well. During autumn, when the air becomes cooler and drier, it’s essential to apply moisturizing products to help keep the wood nourished.

This type of treatment not only protects the furniture but also enhances its natural beauty, bringing out the grain and original color of the wood.

Timely Repairs

Autumn is a great time to inspect your wooden furniture and make necessary repairs before winter arrives, when the weather conditions in Mallorca, particularly humidity levels, can become even more challenging.

If you enjoy working around your house with a terrace or garden, check for splinters, cracks, or loose joints and make repairs as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

For small cracks or indentations in the wood, you can use wood filler, which comes in various shades to match your furniture’s color. Apply the filler to the damaged area, let it dry, and then sand gently to smooth the surface.

If any furniture has lost its shine or the finish is worn, consider sanding it and applying a fresh coat of varnish or protective wax. These steps will not only restore the furniture’s appearance but also protect it during the colder months.

Proper Storage

If you have outdoor wooden furniture, it’s advisable to consider storing it in a protected area during autumn to avoid weather damage. Look for a dry, well-ventilated space, such as a garage or shed, where the furniture won’t be exposed to rain, wind, or humidity.

Before storing, make sure to clean the furniture and apply appropriate protective treatment, such as oils or varnishes, so they are well-prepared for winter.

If storage isn’t an option, cover the furniture with breathable traps that protect it from the elements while allowing air to circulate and prevent moisture build-up.

Looking for a home with a terrace or garden in Mallorca to place your wooden furniture? Contact us.