Cypress is a popular choice in construction and is often seen in outdoor patio furniture. Although classified as a softwood, the wood found in cypress tables is extremely strong and durable. That said, a little effort can go a long way in keeping the original brilliance and beautifully colored grain 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 oils, which not only preserve the wood from the inside out, but also help prevent fungal and insect infestation. To add to that, the oils combined with a naturally tight 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, keep in mind that the wood will turn gray if left untreated. This is due to the natural patina effect of the sun, which is not detrimental to the wood, and in fact some people prefer its mature, weathered look. On the other hand, if the furniture is kept indoors, the wood won’t produce as many natural oils, and too much hand oil can actually turn it 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 brands of oil. When applying oils, most types are brushed on or sprayed on. Then let it absorb completely, then wipe off any excess and let the cypress boards dry. Furniture will usually be ready for use the next day, but because cypress is a particularly dense wood, it can sometimes take longer.

to paint

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 sealants and paints. And of all the exterior finishes, paint offers the best protection, though even it’s subject to peeling and blistering. On average, painting jobs last between 1 and 3 years, depending on the exhibition. For starters, 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’re also harder to clean and more toxic to you and the environment.

Cleaning

People disagree on the best method for cleaning wood furniture in general, but the general consensus is that expensive cleaners are unnecessary in most cases. Murphy’s oil soap or even plain old soap and water applied with a soft brush will usually do the trick. For more difficult stains or mold, a mixture of water and bleach is recommended. Power washers are another route, but care must be taken not to remove parts of the wood. Please note that whatever the use, be sure to thoroughly clean the treated areas. Failure to do so will create an unsightly buildup. After cleaning the furniture, don’t forget to reapply oil.

Storage

Cypress table and furniture storage is always a pressing concern, especially for those with limited space. If you can’t afford to make room indoors for winter yard games or extended exposure to stormy weather, covering your furniture with tarps is the next best thing. These are made of vinyl or reinforced canvas and can often mean the difference between buying a new patio set every few years and never having to buy another set ever again. A little word of warning with the covers: the tarps are positioned so that they rest snugly on top of the furniture and create a kind of wet-bed effect. If the cypress tables are not completely dry when the cover is put on, there could be a nasty case of mildew developing the next time you go to uncover them. Some paints and sealants actually come with a mildew inhibitor for those who live in humid climates.