Outdoor Furniture

Leisurecraft outdoor furniture is built primarily from Eastern White Cedar and Western Red Cedar, woods naturally resistant to moisture, decay and insects. The furniture can remain outdoors year-round, although a few simple maintenance steps will help keep it looking its best.

Before Use

• Check that the furniture is sitting securely on a firm, level surface.
• Inspect chairs, tables and benches for loose fasteners.
• Wipe away water, leaves or debris before sitting.
• Check folding furniture to ensure hinges and locking components are properly positioned.

After Use / Day-to-Day Care

Very little daily maintenance is required.

• Brush away leaves, dirt and debris.
• Wipe up food or beverage spills promptly.
• Allow wet furniture to dry naturally.
• Do not leave wet cushions or fabric accessories sitting on cedar for extended periods.
• Store cushions indoors or in a dry storage box when not in use.

Regular Cleaning

As required:

1. Remove loose dirt with a soft brush.
2. Wash with warm water and mild soap.
3. Use a soft cloth or non-abrasive brush.
4. Rinse with clean water.
5. Allow the furniture to air-dry completely.

For difficult stains, lightly sanding the wood with the grain is preferable to using aggressive chemical cleaners.

Natural Cedar Weathering

Untreated cedar will gradually change from its original warm colour to a natural silver-grey.

This is normal and does not damage the wood.

Leisurecraft specifically notes that its cedar furniture may be left outdoors unfinished and allowed to weather naturally.

Keeping the Original Cedar Colour

If you prefer the original cedar appearance:

• Apply a quality penetrating exterior finish suitable for cedar.
• Leisurecraft recommends Livos exterior wood finishes.
• Apply only to clean, dry wood.
• Reapply periodically as the finish fades.

Avoid thick film-forming finishes that can peel or trap moisture unless specifically designed for cedar outdoor furniture.

Seasonal Care

In spring and fall:

• Tighten loose bolts and screws.
• Inspect joints and hardware.
• Clean accumulated dirt from horizontal surfaces.
• Lightly sand rough or raised wood fibres.
• Check feet and legs for prolonged contact with standing water or wet soil.
• Keep furniture positioned where water can drain away.

Winter Care

Leisurecraft cedar furniture can be left outside throughout Canadian winters.

For best results:

• Remove and store cushions.
• Clear heavy snow periodically rather than leaving large loads on tables or chairs.
• Do not chip ice from cedar using sharp metal tools.
• If covering the furniture, use a breathable cover that allows airflow rather than trapping moisture.
• Avoid storing cedar furniture directly in standing water or constantly wet ground.

Once a Year

• Thoroughly wash the furniture.
• Inspect all joints and hardware.
• Tighten screws and bolts.
• Replace damaged hardware where necessary.
• Lightly sand rough surfaces.
• Apply exterior wood finish if you wish to maintain the original cedar colour.
• Inspect high-contact areas such as chair arms, seats and table surfaces.

Avoid

• Bleach, ammonia and harsh cleaners.
• High-pressure washing.
• Leaving wet cushions on the furniture.
• Allowing furniture legs to sit continuously in standing water.
• Dragging heavy furniture across rough surfaces.
• Covering furniture tightly while it is wet.