Absolutely! Most scratches on outdoor bench finishes can be successfully touched up, restoring both protection and appearance. The specific method depends on your bench's material and finish type.
For wooden benches with protective coatings, start by cleaning the scratched area thoroughly. Light surface scratches often only need a fresh coat of the original sealant. For deeper scratches that expose bare wood, you'll need to sand the area gently, apply a wood stain that matches your bench, then seal with outdoor-grade polyurethane or teak oil. Always follow the wood grain when applying products.
Metal benches with powder coatings require different approach. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the scratch edges, then apply matching touch-up paint specifically designed for outdoor metal furniture. For wrought iron benches, consider using rust-inhibiting primer before painting to prevent corrosion.
Modern composite benches often have color-through materials, making scratches less noticeable. Simply clean with appropriate solutions and apply UV-protective sealants if recommended by the manufacturer.
Regular maintenance including cleaning and periodic resealing can prevent minor scratches from worsening. Always test any repair products on inconspicuous areas first. With proper care, your outdoor benches can maintain their beauty and durability for years, even after accidental scratches.