Understanding the Natural Characteristics of Wood

Our wooden outdoor furniture, including selected Bali, Martinique and Porto collections, features a light PU protective coating for added protection against everyday outdoor conditions.

However, wood is a natural material that responds to changes in temperature, moisture and humidity. As it naturally expands and contracts, small cracks, splits and variations in the wood may develop over time.

These natural characteristics are part of the ageing process of solid wood and do not ordinarily affect the structural integrity or durability of the furniture.

Important Warranty Information: Natural splitting and cracking caused by the normal expansion and contraction of wood are not covered under the manufacturer's warranty. By purchasing wooden outdoor furniture, you acknowledge and accept these natural characteristics of the material.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning helps maintain the appearance of your wooden outdoor furniture and prevents dirt and debris from accumulating on the surface.

• Wipe wooden surfaces regularly using a soft, damp cloth.
• Remove dirt, food residue and spills promptly to help preserve the finish.
• Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaning products and scouring pads.
• For deeper cleaning or additional protection, use a suitable wood-care product specifically designed for outdoor wooden furniture.

Always follow the instructions supplied with any wood-cleaning or treatment products before use.

Seasonal Maintenance & Wood Oiling

To help maintain the appearance and longevity of your wooden outdoor furniture, we recommend treating the wood twice a year with a suitable outdoor wood oil.

Regular treatment can help nourish the timber, maintain its natural appearance and minimise the effects of weather exposure.

• Twice-Yearly Treatment: Apply a suitable wood oil designed specifically for outdoor wooden furniture approximately twice per year.
• Surface Preparation: Ensure the wood is clean and dry before applying any treatment.
• Light Sanding: In some cases, lightly sanding the surface may be necessary before treatment to encourage even absorption and achieve the best finish.
• Suitable Products: Use wood oils specifically formulated for outdoor furniture, following the manufacturer's application instructions.

Please note: Where your furniture has an existing PU coating, ensure any treatment or preparation method is compatible with that finish and the furniture manufacturer's guidance before applying it.

Avoid Using Furniture Covers

We do not recommend using protective furniture covers on wooden outdoor furniture.

Although covers may appear to offer additional protection, they can trap moisture and condensation against the wooden surfaces, particularly during periods of changing temperatures or damp weather.

Trapped moisture can contribute to:

• Mould and mildew developing on wooden surfaces.
• Excess moisture being retained against the furniture.
• Warping, swelling or other moisture-related deterioration.

Important Warranty Information: The manufacturer's care guidance states that using covers will void the warranty and that damage resulting from their use will not be covered, subject to your statutory consumer rights.

Regular cleaning and appropriate seasonal maintenance are the recommended ways to preserve your wooden furniture.

Natural Colour Changes & Weathering

As a natural material, wood may gradually change colour when exposed to sunlight, rain and varying outdoor temperatures.

Untreated or naturally finished wood may develop lighter, darker or more weathered tones over time. These natural changes contribute to the individual character of each piece of furniture.

To help minimise changes in appearance:

• Clean the furniture regularly to remove dirt and environmental deposits.
• Maintain a suitable twice-yearly wood treatment routine.
• Use appropriate outdoor wood-care products to help maintain the natural finish.

Some natural colour variation and weathering should be expected as part of the normal ageing process of outdoor wooden furniture.

Important Care Information

Following these care and maintenance recommendations will help preserve the appearance and condition of your wooden outdoor furniture.

Please always refer to any product-specific care instructions supplied by the manufacturer. Natural characteristics of wood and normal weathering should be distinguished from manufacturing defects, and nothing in this guidance affects your statutory consumer rights.