How to Refinish a Patio Bench

If your patio bench is taking on a worn, faded look, breathe new life into its appearance by refinishing it with the appropriate coatings. Before you rush into this type of do-it-yourself project, know the potential risks involved: Because patio benches are coated with a protective layer of varnish, they will not accept new stain unless they are thoroughly sanded prior to application. Know the proper way to sand the patio bench, or you will induce rampant splintering that will ultimately leave the bench ruined.

• 1

  Remove the bench from the patio and place it on grass.

• 2

  Wash the patio bench using a pressure washer stocked with a low-pressure tip. Wait 24 hours for the bench to dry.

• 3

  Sand the patio bench using a palm sander equipped with 120-grit sandpaper. Sand along with the bench's wood grain. Stop when the finish on the patio bench appears dull.

• 4

  Exchange the 120-grit sandpaper for 220-grit. Sand the patio bench using the palm sander. Stop when the bench feels smooth. Wipe all dust from the bench with a rag.

• 5

  Coat the bench with stain, using a paintbrush, made for use with oil-based paints. Wipe excess stain from the patio bench, using cloth rags. Wait 6 hours for the stain to dry.

• 6

  Wash the brush with mineral spirits.

• 7

  Coat the stained wooden bench with varnish, using the clean paintbrush. Wait 6 hours before sitting on the bench.