null

How to Treat Exterior Wood

Treating exterior wood may sound scary, but as the change of seasons begin, it’s time to draw up a list and tackle your garden maintenance jobs – including timber care.

Whether you want to protect your timber against the elements for a longer life against rot, wear and decay, or spruce up a tired-looking surface; there are many ways of treating wood for exterior use, depending on the type of wood and the finish you want to achieve.

So, are you wondering how to treat exterior wood? Keep on reading to find out!

Image of some decking in a garden, with railings and a green plantpot in the corner.

 Howarth Timber

Wood stain and dye

Staining exterior wood helps protect it from the weather and wear caused by heavy use – all while adding a rich splash of colour.

Wood stain is designed to soak into the timber, offering long-lasting protection and enhancing the natural grain. Many outdoor stains are also wax-enriched, making them water-repellent and slip-resistant – a great choice for decking or garden steps.

Benefits:

  • Long-lasting and scuff-resistant
  • Enhances natural grain
  • Available in a wide range of colours
  • Ideal for decking, fencing and sheds

Image of composite decking with pillows and a blanket scattered all over it.

Howarth Timber

Wood varnish

Varnish adds a tough, protective layer to timber. It’s great for areas that face sunlight or moisture, such as windows, doors, frames, and even garden gates.

Varnishes come in clear matt, satin or gloss finishes. They highlight the wood’s natural look while offering excellent protection against UV rays and water damage. For best results, prepare the wood with filler and sanding before applying.

Benefits:

  • Strong UV and water protection
  • Durable and weather-resistant
  • Adds a rich tone to the wood
  • Best for doors, windows and gates

Image of a garden chair made of timber on some decking outside, sat next to a timber table.

Howarth Timber

Wood paint

Want to give your outdoor wood a fresh new look? Paint is one of the quickest and easiest ways to do it.

Exterior wood paints add vibrant colour while also protecting against fading, moisture, and general wear. Whether you go bold with bright tones or stick to natural shades, paint is perfect for updating fence panels, sheds, trellises and more.

Benefits:

Image of some brown decking outside an external door leading to the garden.

Howarth Timber

Wood oil

Wood oils work by soaking into the timber and replacing the natural oils it loses over time. This helps prevent the wood from drying out, cracking, or splitting.

Many outdoor wood oils also include resins for better water resistance or UV filters for sun protection. They’re ideal for use on both softwoods and hardwoods, especially on decking and garden furniture.

How to apply:

Apply thin, even coats using a brush or cloth. Let each coat fully absorb and dry before adding another.

Benefits:

  • Nourishes and protects from within
  • Helps prevent splitting and warping
  • Water- and UV-resistant options available
  • Low-sheen finish

Composite decking outside in a garden, with plantpots around the edging.

Howarth Timber

Now you know the basics of how to treat wood for exterior use - from stains and varnishes to oils and paints! Each method offers unique benefits depending on the finish you want, and the level of protection required for perfectly treated exterior wood.

If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about our range of exterior wood treatment products, feel free to visit your local Howarth branch or contact our customer service team on 01472 907051.

You can also browse our full selection of wood treatments here, or pop into a branch for friendly advice and support.

6th Aug 2025 Emily Green

Recent Posts

Newsletter Sign Up