Watching your beautiful garden benches succumb to rot from ground moisture is frustrating. Fortunately, with some proactive steps, you can shield those wooden legs and enjoy your outdoor furniture for years longer. The key is creating a barrier between the wood and the damp soil.
First, consider elevation. Never let your bench legs sit directly on the earth. Use durable, non-absorbent materials like concrete pavers, brick, or specially designed plastic or metal furniture risers. This simple step improves air circulation and prevents constant wicking of moisture into the wood grain.
The most crucial step is applying a protective finish. Start by ensuring the legs are clean, dry, and sound. For optimal protection, use a high-quality, exterior-grade waterproofing sealant, wood stain with sealant, or a penetrating wood preservative like copper naphthenate. Pay special attention to the end grain at the bottom of the legs, as it absorbs moisture like a sponge. Apply multiple coats according to the product instructions, and reapply this finish every one to two years as part of your regular maintenance.
For added defense, you can install physical barriers. Metal or plastic leg caps or sleeves are available that fit over the bottom of the legs. Alternatively, a DIY approach involves brushing a thick, waterproof epoxy resin onto the bottom several inches of each leg to create a hardened, impermeable shell.
Regular inspection is your best maintenance habit. Check your bench legs periodically for signs of softening wood, mold, or new cracks. Address any issues immediately by allowing the wood to dry thoroughly and reapplying your chosen sealant. By combining elevation, a robust sealed finish, and consistent care, you create a powerful defense system that keeps your garden benches stable, beautiful, and dry season after season.