It's incredibly frustrating to find your beautiful wooden benches gnawed by squirrels. Don't worry, you can stop this behavior with a mix of humane, effective strategies. First, understand the "why": squirrels chew to wear down their ever-growing teeth and may be attracted to salts or finishes on the wood.
Start with immediate, non-toxic deterrents. Apply a taste repellent spray made from capsaicin (hot pepper) or bitter apple directly to the bench arms. Reapply after rain. Sprinkling cayenne pepper powder can also work. For a physical barrier, wrap the affected arms with flexible metal flashing, aluminum foil, or hardware cloth (wire mesh). Squirrels dislike chewing on metal.
Make the area less appealing. Remove nearby food sources like bird feeders. Use motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic devices to startle them away. Consider placing a sacrificial piece of wood or a squirrel feeder stocked with nuts and corn away from your bench to divert their chewing instinct.
For long-term care, sand away old finish and apply a protective sealant like polyurethane. Planting mint, daffodils, or marigolds around your seating area may help, as squirrels dislike these smells. Consistency is key—combine several methods for the best results. With patience, you can enjoy your benches squirrel-free.