Yes, varnish can be used on outdoor furniture, specifically marine varnish can be applied.
Based on the provided reference, if your outdoor furniture does not already have a protective coating – which is stated to be unusual – you can apply a marine varnish directly over the stain. The reference notes that outdoor furniture often comes with oil finishes rather than hard coatings like varnish because oil is generally simpler for maintenance. However, marine varnish is presented as a viable option for protection, particularly when applied over a stained surface that lacks a pre-existing protective layer.
Key Considerations for Using Varnish Outdoors
Drawing from the reference, here are some points to consider regarding varnish and outdoor furniture:
- Type of Varnish: The reference specifically mentions marine varnish. This type of varnish is designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including exposure to sun, rain, and temperature changes, making it suitable for outdoor applications.
- Application Surface: The reference suggests applying marine varnish directly over the stain, assuming the furniture does not have an existing protective coating. Ensure the surface is properly prepared (cleaned, stained if desired, and dry) before application.
- Comparison to Oil: The reference points out that oil finishes are more commonly found on outdoor furniture. This is because maintenance is much simpler with oil finishes compared to hard coatings like varnish. Varnish, being a hard film, can potentially chip or crack over time due to weather exposure, requiring more complex maintenance or refinishing than simply reapplying oil.
- Existing Coating: The reference implies that applying varnish might be most relevant if your furniture doesn't have a protective coating already. If it has an existing finish, proper preparation (like stripping or sanding) may be necessary before applying a new coat of varnish, although the reference focuses on applying it when no prior coating exists.
While oil might be the more common choice due to ease of upkeep, marine varnish offers a protective layer that can be applied to stained outdoor furniture, according to the reference, especially if it's currently unfinished.
