Painting outdoor wood might seem like a breeze, but trust me, using the wrong paint can leave your furniture at risk of fading, mold, and weather damage.
I’ve chatted with some woodworking pros to compile the best paints to keep your outdoor pieces looking fresh and protected.
Reviews of the Top Paint for Outdoor Wood Furniture
1. Rust-Oleum 1974502 Painter's Touch
When you don’t have many tools in your arsenal, the Rust-Oleum 1974502 Painter’s Touch is an option you can use with a brush. It dries rapidly, has a glossy finish, and is long-lasting. It outlasts the majority of exterior paints in terms of longevity.
When working on woodworking projects, I often reach for this paint. It’s fantastic because it’s usable on so many things: wood, metal, plaster, bricks, and even raw ceramic. What I really love about it? It has this “double cover” quality that makes it top-notch.
The varied mixtures instantly refresh your outdoor pieces while also restoring worn-out surfaces. It’s non-toxic, pleasant-smelling, and long-lasting.
What I Like
- Available in many colors
- Can cover surfaces well with a small amount
- Dries quickly
- Works well with various surfaces
What I Don't Like
- Applying the next coat can take time
- Sanding is required before application on wood surfaces
2. Montage Signature Interior/Exterior Eco-Friendly Paint
Montage Signature is an amazing outdoor wood paint that’s ideal for painting unfinished wood. There’s a good reason why this is such excellent paint for outdoor furniture. For one, it is environmentally safe and pollutant-free.
It’s also great for exterior and interior professional painting. You were able to use it seamlessly with various wooden surfaces, including walls, ceilings, trims, and more for both residential and commercial projects.
It can effortlessly repel moisture, mildew, and mold on outdoor surfaces, owing to its sealing technology. All you need to do is use high-quality brushes for an immaculate finish.
What I Like
- Available in low sheen and semi-gloss finishes
- Available in many neutral colors
- Paint does not fold while smoothing out the surface
- Eco-friendly formula
What I Don't Like
- Big size
- Not available in brighter colors
3. KILZ Low-Lustre Enamel Porch & Patio Latex Floor Paint
If you’re looking to refurbish your patio or porch, this Kilz paint is my top recommendation. It provides exceptional coverage and the kit makes woodworking and painting easy. This treatment helps wood, trim, nonferrous metal, masonry, and more.
The KILZ Low-Lustre Enamel Porch & Patio Floor Paint formula is flexible and anyone can use it to seamlessly coat such surfaces. You can skip priming before applying the paint with a nylon or polyester brush, spray, or roller.
This acrylic paint is durable enough to keep your surfaces protected from the environment. You won’t have to worry about mold because it is mildew-resistant. The solution also ensures that the surfaces won’t fade, crack, or peel easily.
What i Like
- No need to prime before application
- Another great option to use on any surface
- Provides good and smooth coverage
- Easy to use
What i Don't Like
- Can take relatively longer to dry
- Limited color options
4. KILZ Exterior Siding Paint
It only takes two coats of KILZ Exterior Siding Paint to give wood outdoor and patio furniture a high-quality finish. The formula is the best and the wood pieces I coated stood the test of time against external elements.
If you’re concerned about your wooden surfaces easily fading or being prone to scratches, the KILZ paint can serve as a preventive barrier for a long time. Besides, it can be your go-to choice as the best deck paint for old wood. The application of the coat was also a breeze and the surfaces dried after several hours.
If you’re not comfortable using formulas with harmful chemicals, the KILZ paint does not contain any volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
What I Like
- Highly versatile to use on many surfaces
- Available in two colors
- Good consistency
- Can protect surfaces well from weather and moisture
- Long-lasting coat
- VOC-free
What I Don't Like
- May need a brush for smaller cracks and crevices
- May not be always available
Paint for Outdoor Wood Furniture Buyer's Guide
Coverage
When buying paint, take into account the area you intend to cover. Calculate the surface area to determine the amount of paint needed, ensuring you purchase enough to cover the entire surface.
Color
Determine the color and aesthetic you want for your outdoor furniture or patio. Most come in different colors to accommodate your taste. Also, exterior buildings in direct sunlight should be painted lighter to reduce overheating.
Drying Time
Check a wood stain’s drying time before buying it. Quick-drying paints are ideal as they don’t wash away if it rains unexpectedly.
FAQ
Can you paint outdoor furniture without sanding?
Yes, you can paint outdoor furniture without sanding. However, if the finish of the piece you’re painting is damaged or chipping, you need to sand it down before painting. This will avoid peeling off of the new paint work.
Read Next: Best Paint for Plywood
My Top Pick For a Paint for Outdoor Wood Furniture:
KILZ Exterior Siding Paint
Exterior painting requires top-of-the-line products, but the KILZ Exterior Siding Paint is my top pick for the best paint for outdoor wood furniture. The formula composition combines utmost protection and easy application to surfaces.
Aside from selecting a good paint for your outdoor furniture, you should also ensure that it is made of lumber that can withstand rain or other extreme weather conditions.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
