How to treat my wooden table on the balcony?

Question

i bought a wooden table which used to be dining table and evolved to balcony table when i got a new dining table. it's not made to go outside. the balcony is covered as i'm not the top floor and there's a balcony just over it, but the table definitely gets some rain, especially on the outer side. it was not expensive at all so i don't feel bad about it, but it's getting that gray, weathered look on half of it and i'm thinking it might be nice to paint or stain a reddish tone it to freshen it up and also protect it somewhat. i guess if i used outdoor paint or stain that would work. which would you recommend and do i need to sand or otherwise prepare it, besides washing? thanks!

Answer 1

You will  have to do some sanding to rough up the surface to accept the next coating.  You can use exterior stains, paints, or even just exterior polyurethane to protect the table and chairs.  This is a rather simple project to do, so take your time and get what you want.

Answer 2

go for it.  If you sand it, you sand it because you want to and will make it right for you.  You can just start painting it, because the weather is going to have its way with it anyway.

Answer 3

Since it has already discolored from the weather....I would go ahead and paint it with a good oil based or polyurethane paint. The polyurethane will hold up better outside, and buy enough that you can give it another fresh coat next year.

You only need to lightly sand it right now to get the glossy coat off so the fresh paint will stick better. Before you paint it...wipe it down with a clean cloth with mineral spirits to get off any waxes or greasy oils that will interfere with the fresh paint.