Cypress table care

Cypress is a popular choice in construction and is often seen in outdoor patio furniture. Although classified as softwood, the wood found in cypress tables is extremely durable and long-lasting. That said, a little effort can go a long way in maintaining the original shine and beautifully colored streak of this exotic species looking great year after year.

Oils and Sealants

Cypress tables and other cypress furniture are blessed by the fact that the wood creates its own oils, called cypress trees, which not only preserve the wood from the inside out, but also help prevent fungus and insect infestation. In addition, the oils combined with a naturally firm and straight grain make the wood resistant to cracking and warping. Regardless, a little oil once a year on your part will further preserve the natural shine of the wood. Those who live in sunnier and warmer environments could get away with lubrication twice a year. If cypress furniture is kept outdoors year-round, be aware that the wood will turn grayish if left untreated. This is due to the natural patina effect of the sun, which does not damage the wood and, in fact, some people prefer its mature and weathered look. On the other hand, if the furniture is kept indoors, the wood will not produce as many natural oils and too much manual oil can turn the wood black. Sealants typically contain UV inhibitors to repel sun damage, as well as waterproofing agents to keep out moisture, mold and mildew. Some also contain linseed oil to keep the wood fibers strong. Olympic Maximum and Calbot’s Australian are two popular oil brands. When applying oils, most types are brushed or sprayed. Then let it soak completely, then wipe off any excess and allow the cypress tables to dry. Furniture will generally be ready for use the next day, but because cypress is a particularly dense wood, it can sometimes take longer.

Painting

Cypress has a naturally rich color that matches most color schemes, but if you insist on painting it, the wood is especially well suited to sealers and paints. And of all exterior finishes, paint offers the best protection, yet is even subject to peeling and blisters. On average, paint jobs last between 1 and 3 years, depending on the exposure. To get started, make sure the wood is clean and dry before you begin, then use an oil-based primer on the bare wood. Once it has dried, choose a finish. Oil-based finishes tend to last longer than their water-based counterparts, but they are also harder to clean and more toxic to you and the environment.

Cleaning

People disagree on which is the best method for cleaning wooden furniture in general, but the general consensus is that, in most cases, expensive cleaners are unnecessary. Murphy’s oil soap or even regular old soap and water applied with a soft brush will usually suffice. For tougher stains or mold, a mixture of water and bleach is recommended. Pressure washers are another route, but care must be taken not to remove parts of the wood. Keep in mind that whatever is used, be sure to thoroughly clean the treated areas. Failure to do so will create an unsightly build-up. After cleaning the furniture, do not forget to reapply oil.

Storage

Storing cypress tables and furniture is always an urgent concern, especially for those with limited space. If you can’t afford to make room inside for patio games during the winter or prolonged exposure to storms, the next best option is to cover your furniture with water-repellent tarps. These are made from reinforced vinyl or canvas and can often mean the difference between buying a new patio set every few years and never having to buy another set again. A little caveat with the covers: the tarps are arranged so that they rest comfortably on the furniture and create a kind of wet seedbed effect. If the cypress tables are not completely dry when the cover is put on, there could be an ugly case of mold developing the next time you go to find out. Some paints and sealers come with a mold inhibitor for those who live in humid climates.