Saving Money By Refinishing Wooden Adirondack Chairs?

White-washed wooden Adirondack chairs are a staple in any beach community. They are popular also for those who live near lakes. Unfortunately, one of the most common downfalls of these chairs is that they weather faster than most other types. Buying new chairs can be expensive; a good Adirondack chair in the typical beach style may cost $100. It is much less expensive to refinish and repaint them at home. The cost of supplies to finish one chair should not run more than $20. For those who are willing to coupon-hunt, the price could be even less.

To refinish a chair, a piece of double-sided sandpaper will be needed, along with the right kind of weather-proofing coat and primer for the type of wood used to make the chair. A brush or sponge-brush will also be required. If paint is desired, purchase the color or colors of paint that are favored.

Start by scraping off any old paint on the chair if it is cracking. After this, sand it with the rougher part of the sandpaper to ensure all of the tougher pre-existing material has been removed. Finish it with the lighter side of the sandpaper so it will be smooth. If the chair has separated shanks of wood that are painted in between, get a sander or file that has a handle and is sturdy; this will make it easier to sand in between the slats of wood.

If the chair looks like there is moisture in the wood, place it in front of a fan for about 8 hours. Once the wood is thoroughly dried out, apply the primer and weather-proof coating, according to the instructions on the back of the containers. The chair's coats will need ample time to dry in between. If storms are predicted outdoors, make sure it will be possible to keep the chair indoors until the project is finished.

The last step is to paint the chair. Paint adds an extra protective coating and gives the furniture an aesthetic beauty. Follow the instructions on the paint can and be sure the chair has at least 24 hours to dry after the last coat.