Staff Answer
Jul 11, 2026 - 08:34 AM
If you prefer not to stain or paint your Traditional Pine Picnic Bench with our products, that's absolutely fine. You're more than welcome to purchase the bench unfinished and apply your own protective finish. However, we strongly advise against using polyurethane. Polyurethane can trap moisture inside the wood, leading to premature rot, especially outdoors. Additionally, if the surface gets bumped or scratched—common for outdoor furniture—any break in the seal allows water to penetrate, which can also cause rotting. We've seen benches deteriorate in as little as a year with polyurethane finishes. Instead, we recommend choosing a high-quality, breathable sealer—either oil or water-based—that allows moisture to escape. While these sealers may cost a bit more, they will better protect your bench and keep it looking great for years to come.
