Outdoor furniture must withstand various environmental conditions in India, including heavy monsoon rains, hot summers, and high humidity levels. Due to this, the materials chosen for use outdoors must be very durable. Marine Plywood is one of the popular materials used for outdoor furniture, but is it really the best option? The following article will provide a definitive answer.
What Makes Outdoor Furniture Susceptible to Damage?
Outdoor environments expose the furniture to the effects of:
Moisture / Rain
Frequent moisture and humidity can cause wood to expand and/or decay.
Temperature Changes
Heat and cold can cause the wood to expand and contract, ultimately creating cracks.
UV Radiation
UV rays from the sun will deteriorate the surface of the furniture, fading the finish and breaking down the wood’s structural integrity.
Dust and Debris
The dust and debris will accelerate the deterioration of the surface of the furniture.
Because of these factors, many types of traditional plywood (as well as solid wood) will fail quickly when utilized outdoors without protection.
Marine Plywood Is Superior to Traditional Plywood
Marine plywood is manufactured differently than most standard plywood. Marine plywood is constructed using waterproof phenolic resin adhesive and has multiple layers of hardwood veneers that are bonded together much more tightly than standard plywood. The superior bond strength allows marine plywood to resist moisture penetration when wet. This structural integrity makes marine plywood a strong candidate for outdoor furniture that will be exposed to moisture.
What Areas Are Best Suited for Marine Plywood Furniture Outdoors?
Marine Plywood will perform best when used in partially covered or semi-outdoor areas such as:
- Balconies with covers or roofs
- Patios with overhangs
- Rooftop lounges with pergolas
- Garden seating areas with shade
In these areas, marine plywood will withstand both moisture from humidity and occasional splashes and retain its strength and shape for a pretty long time. Additionally, when marine plywood is used with an outdoor-grade finish, paint, or sealant, the longevity of marine plywood is extended dramatically.
Limitations of Marine Plywood
Although marine plywood is a durable material, marine plywood does have limitations. In a fully open area where there will be continuous exposure to direct rain and sunlight, marine plywood will deteriorate without protecting it with sealant and a finish. Marine plywood cannot replace materials that have been used to withstand outdoor conditions, such as teak, metal, or synthetic outdoor composites.
Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Marine Plywood Furniture
To help marine plywood outdoor furniture perform better:
- Apply exterior-grade sealant or paint
- Avoid allowing water to collect on surfaces
- If possible, store the outdoor furniture indoors during harsh weather conditions
- Refinish periodically to protect exposed edges
Professional contractors often select Royale Touche’s marine plywood for outdoor furniture projects where the longevity and strength of a product are a primary consideration.
Final Thoughts
In summary, marine plywood can be a great outdoor furniture option as long as it is used in partially protected space and finished properly. When applied and maintained correctly, marine plywood provides impressive durability, strength, and economy of use against India’s many different climate variations.