Add a splash OF PAINT

Brighten up your outdoor furniture and decking by giving it an instant revamp

ecorating isn’t just for your interiors – your garden is a blank canvas, too, and a fresh coat of paint can completely transform your space. But the process of reviving your outdoor furniture and walls can seem daunting, so make sure you’re prepared before you begin.

When painting tables and chairs, turn each piece upside-down when dry and paint the feet underneath, too, as this is where moisture is absorbed. Untreated furniture will soon show the damaging effects of the weather. Try Sandtex’s 10-year exterior gloss paint (£28.99 per 2.5ltr). It’s also best to keep wooden furniture on a hard base, such as paving or gravel, and raise items up on bricks in winter to prevent water damage.

DFloors and walls

As well as updating your table and chairs, don’t forget about your decking, cladding, fences, sheds and exterior walls. Perk up a drab, faded fence or some tired cladding with a cheery colour, or stick to the natural look with a coat of rich, honey-coloured stain – but make sure you add a protective layer to prevent it from rotting. If you’re reviving your decking, go for an anti-slip stain – we recommend the range from Cuprinol.

regularly wash down garden furniture to maintain it during the summer, and keep it covered for protection in winter