Wood shelters and sheds, they look gorgeous outdoors, but how many winters do you think they will last? They sure complete the functionality and look of your landscape, and you want them to last.
Here in Black Beards Woodworking & Sawmill, we make premium and custom woodwork creations. With an eye for the environment and art, we take inspiration from nature in our woodwork.
The winter season is almost here. Here are the steps you can do to protect exposed outdoor wood structures.
Wood Pergolas
Beautiful pergolas add a nicely rustic, arts-and-crafts charm in your outdoors or in the patio. They are a perfect shady retreat for socializing and adding a focal point in your space.
Since they are huge, wood pergolas are often exposed to the outside weather. They do need maintenance as debris accelerates development of rot. Use a soft-bristle brush or a power washer (on a low setting) to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Mild soap and water work well. This should be done at least once a year, especially after the winter months.
Next, check for any signs of wear, such as cracks, loose screws, or rotting wood. Repair or replace damaged parts as soon as you notice them. Tighten any loose bolts or fasteners to ensure the structure stays sturdy.
See and buy Douglas Fir Pergola Kit
To protect the wood, apply a wood sealant or stain every two to three years. This helps the pergola resist moisture and prevents UV damage from the sun, which can cause the wood to fade and crack. Make sure to use a product designed for outdoor wood structures.
While it looks nice, you should remove any vines or plants growing on the pergola. Live plants can add weight and retain moisture, which might damage the wood over time.
Wood Shelters
Wood shelters add shade and character to any outdoor space. Like pergolas, they need to be cleaned. What we mean is, using a power washer plus soap and water once in a while.
In addition to cleaning, wood shelters and pergolas also need periodic wood sealant or weatherproofing stain. This will protect the wood from moisture, ice, and snow. Make sure to use a product that is made for outdoor wood. A good sealant helps prevent water from seeping into the wood, which could freeze and cause it to crack.
Lastly, if possible, cover or shield your wood structures from snow or ice buildup. Even temporary covers can help reduce exposure to harsh weather. With a little prep, your wood structures will withstand winter and be ready for spring!
See this link to buy Wood Shelters – Custom Sizing
Wood Tables
The addition of a beautiful wood table is something needed like when you got a large yard with lots of greenery. It is good in a gazebo. How nice it is to spend time on it during a sunny date and lay a spread on there.
Now comes the winter. And you just cannot bring that huge wood table inside. Well, now how can you protect them?
See this link to see and buy a Rustic Natural Wood Outdoor Patio Table
The best thing you can do to a wood table, when the weather is still fair, is to air them so moisture gets out. Aside from regular washing and drying, it is best to apply a good-quality wood polish or wax. This creates a protective layer that keeps moisture in the wood, helping it stay healthy through the winter months.
If your wood table is outdoors, it faces more challenges. Snow, rain, and freezing temperatures can cause serious damage if the table isn’t protected.
One of the most important steps is sealing the wood. Use a weatherproof sealant or outdoor wood varnish to protect the table from moisture and cold. Apply at least two coats, following the product instructions, and make sure to cover every surface, including the legs and underside. A good sealant will prevent water from seeping into the wood, where it could freeze and cause cracking.
The Choice of Wood Matters
Make sure to carefully select woodwork according to the local climate and weather patterns. For outdoors, cedar is among the best. It has natural oils that act as a protective barrier. These oils help the wood resist moisture, rot, and decay, which are common problems for outdoor structures like decks, fences, and pergolas. It is also naturally resistant to insects like termites and other wood-boring pests.
For durability, we highly recommend Douglas fir for outdoor projects. It’s a strong, durable wood that can withstand tough weather conditions. Whether you’re building a deck, pergola, or outdoor furniture, Douglas fir is an excellent choice.
One of the main reasons it works so well outdoors is its natural resistance to decay and insects. Douglas fir has a tight grain pattern, making it less prone to absorbing water. This means it holds up well against rain, snow, and humidity, which are common issues in outdoor environments.
So there you have it. Have beautiful wood structures to complete your landscape with Black Beards Woodworking & Sawmill. Our sawmill is located near Calgary, Canada, and we deliver. We hope that you can do steps to protect your outdoor wood shelters in all types of weather, including winter.