How To Waterproof Outdoor Decorations? [Step-by-Step]
Do you see that mold growing on your beloved sculptures in the garden, rust on the metallic decorations hung at the porch, or warping on the wooden signs?
These are signs that your outdoor decorations are getting damaged due to constant exposure to moisture, and it’s time to do something about it.
We spent a lot of time meticulously choosing each piece of outdoor decorations, only for them to get damaged by the rain.
Even the longevity of the toughest outdoor decorations, such as concrete statues, can be compromised by water in the long run. Hence, it becomes essential to waterproof them so that you can enjoy using them incessantly.
There are several methods you can use to make them waterproof to enhance their longevity. If you are unsure what methods to use, then you have reached the right place. This post will guide you on how you can waterproof most types of outdoor decorations at home.
How To Waterproof Outdoor Statues?
Statues and sculptures are a great way to add a whimsical touch to your gardens. However, rain, dust, and the sun will take a toll on these statues. Hence, every year, you need to invest time in waterproof status to retain their initial charm.
The first step in determining which method works best for a particular statue is identifying the material it is made from.
Generally, outdoor sculptures are made from concrete, marble, bronze, or resin. You can pick any one of the methods depending on the material of your statue.
Waterproofing Outdoor Concrete and Marble Statues
If you have concrete or marble statues that you want to waterproof, then applying a masonry sealant is suitable. The masonry sealer penetrates beneath the concrete or marble surface and creates a water-repellent coat.
Thus, water cannot penetrate beneath the surface and cause any structural damage. Moreover, its smooth finish makes cleaning these statues effortless.
This also makes the statue more resilient to damage from the sun. Hence, improving its overall resistance against all weather elements.
A good masonry sealant such as Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream can last as long as six years; however, this number may vary based on the weather conditions.
Required material:
- Bucket
- Dish soap
- Soft bristle brush or sponge
- Portland cement (optional)
- Paintbrush
- Masonry sealant
Step-by-Step Process
1. Clean the statues
Any dust particles left on the surface will restrict the sealant from bonding well with the surface. Thus, you should always start by cleaning the statues thoroughly. Create suds by adding enough liquid soap to a bucket of water.
Use a soft brush or foam brush saturated with soapy water and gently scrub the statue extensively. If your statue has a detailed design, use a small brush to remove dust where a foam brush cannot reach.
2. Rinse with clean water
Once brushed thoroughly, use clean water to rinse the statues. Let the statue dry for a day before proceeding to the next step.
3. Fix the cracked or chipped areas
If the statue is chipped or cracked at some places, apply a coat of portland cement to these areas. Wet your finger and smooth out the applied cement for an even finish.
Wet the repaired area with water and then plastic wrap the statue. Mist the repaired areas daily and plastic cover the figure again for five days.
4. Apply the masonry sealant
Dip the brush in masonry sealant and allow the excessive sealant to drip before applying it to the statue. Ideally, the sealant coat should be even and thin. Let the sealant cure completely for at least a day or as per the instructions on the sealant’s container.
Apply more layers of sealant if needed. Once the statue is completely dry, it is ready to accent your garden in hail, rain, or sun.
Precautions
- Ensure you do this method when the weather conditions are favorable and with no rain forecast for at least a week.
- Do not apply the masonry sealant on the bottom or underside of the statue.
Waterproofing Outdoor Bronze Statues
Unlike concrete, bronze does not have a very porous surface. Hence, to seal bronze statues to use them outdoors, you need clear paste wax.
Wax is a water-repelling product. Applying it to a bronze surface creates a water barrier, thereby preventing water from directly coming in contact with the surface.
This water-barrier coat can last up to three to six months, depending on its quality. You can easily buy a premium clear paste wax online.
Required Material
- Bucket
- Dish soap
- Soft bristle brush or sponge
- Few soft and non-abrasive cloths
- Clear paste wax
Step-By-Step Process
1. Clean the statue
Start by making a soap and water solution in a bucket of water. Dip the bristle or foam brush in soapy water and lightly scrub the bronze statue until it is spotless.
2. Rinse with water
Once cleaned, rinse the statue with clean water and let it dry.
3. Apply the paste wax
Rub the wax onto the statue using a non-abrasive cloth dipped in clear paste wax. Ensure that the wax layer is thin and even. Let the wax dry for at least twenty minutes.
4. Buff the statue
Take another clean, non-abrasive cloth and rub the waxed surface to buff. Rub until the surface becomes shiny. Apply and buff wax again for a second coat.
Waterproofing Outdoor Resign Statues
For resin statues that are meant for outdoor use, the best waterproofing method is using a polyurethane sealer spray.
Sealer spray contains polyethylene particles suspended in a liquid. When applied, the liquid is evaporated, leaving behind polyurethanes that bond with the resin surface.
This creates a waterproof coat on the resin statues that seals out water and dust, molds, etc. The sealer needs to be reapplied at least once or twice every year.
Required Material
- Bleach
- Vinegar
- Warm water
- Soft brush
- Sealer spray
Step-By-Step Process
1. Clean the statue using bleach and vinegar
It is crucial to remove dirt, mold, and moss from the resin statue; otherwise, the sealer spray will not bond with the surface. Start by gently brushing off as much dirt and moss, if present, from the surface using a soft brush.
Then mix equal parts of bleach and warm water. Use a brush to clean the statue using this solution, followed by rinsing with clean water. Now, clean the statue using equal parts of vinegar and warm water and a soft brush.
Once clean, rinse with clean water again. The bleach will eliminate the moss, while vinegar will remove any spores. Leave the statue to dry for a few hours.
2. Move the statue to a suitable location
For the sealer to cure well, it should be kept in a place with optimal temperature (50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit) and away from the source of moisture.
3. Apply the sealer spray
Start spraying the sealer by keeping the spray bottle a few inches away from the statue. Only use light dusty sprays.
Heavy spraying can lead to pooling or dripping on the statue. Wait for one hour between each coat. Leave the statue to cure for a few hours.
Precautions
- Do not mix vinegar and bleach because they can create harmful fumes.
- Only use this method on sunny and dry days.
How To Waterproof Wooden Outdoor Decorations?
We often have custom wall hangings or nameplates made from wood on our front porch or gardens where they are subjected to rain, which can cause warping and rots.
To waterproof your outdoor wooden signs and other decorative items made from wood, you can either use sealer sprays or stains.
Waterproofing Outdoor Wooden Decorations Using Sealant Sprays
You can use any high-grade water or oil-based sealant sprays on your outdoor decorations made from wood. The sealant sprays bond well with the wooden surface and create a robust shield against virtually all-weather elements.
A polyurethane spray is ideal for wooden signs with a vintage look and warm colors because its finish generally has a yellowish tint.
On the other hand, if you do not want any change in the sign’s color, you can use a clear water-based spray. Sealers can last on wooden surfaces from one year to as long as three years.
Required Material
- A soft brush or non-abrasive cloth.
- Water or oil-based sealant spray such as Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch.
- A mask or respirator.
Step-By-Step Process
1. Clean the wooden signs
Use a non-abrasive cloth or a soft brush to brush off the dust from the wooden signs. You can use water to thoroughly clean the sign if needed and let the sign dry for some time.
2. Move to a suitable location
For the spraying process, keep the sign in a dry and well-ventilated area.
3. Apply a thin coat of sealant
Start with light sprays by keeping the spray a few inches away from the sign to avoid pooling. Remember to spray the sides and the back of the sign and leave the sign to cure.
4. Apply a second coat
After the first coat becomes dry to touch, apply a second coat. Let the sign dry for a few hours or, as mentioned in the instructions on the spray bottle.
Once completely dry, the wooden sign is ready to be hung outdoors for a long time without any signs of weathering or warping.
Precautions
- Sealant spray contains highly flammable substances. Hence, ensure there is no heat source near the area.
- Always wear a mask or respirator while using sealant sprays because they emit harmful fumes and pungent odor.
Waterproofing Outdoor Wooden Decorations Using Sealant Stains
Sealant stains are essentially the same as sealant sprays, and the only difference lies in the mode of application. They also provide exceptional protection against water, dust, and UV rays on wooden outdoor decorations.
This method is convenient for people who have a hard time working with sprays due to their strong odor. You will need to reapply for the sealer after a year or two.
Not sure which sealant stain to buy? Try the popular Minwax Polycrylic Protective Wood Stain.
Required Material
- A soft brush or non-abrasive cloth
- A can of sealant stain
- A brush made for paint and stains
- Mineral spirits
Step-By-Step Process
1. Remove any dirt from the wood
You can utilize either a brush or a cloth to wipe off any dust on the signs to facilitate the curing of the stain.
2. Apply a thin coat
To apply a thin and even coat of the stain, use a specifically designed brush for applying paint or stains. You can find a good stain brush online.
Use gentle strokes to avoid line marks on drying. Always let the excess stain drip in the can before brushing for a smooth finish.
3. Apply subsequent layers
You should apply a minimum of two coats of the stain and always start applying a second coat only after the previous one has dried.
You can apply more than two coats for more outstanding durability and get the kind of sheen you desire. Give ample time for the stain to cure.
4. Clean the brush
Water may not be effective in cleaning a brush used for applying stains, especially oil-based stains. Hence, after use, clean the brush using mineral spirits if you wish to use the same brush in the future.
How To Waterproof Outdoor Metal Decorations?
Waterproofing Outdoor Metal Decorations Using Metallic Sealer Sprays
Sculptures, planters, outdoor lamps, and more outdoor decorations are usually made from copper, steel, or brass.
Copper and brass planters or other outdoor items can corrode, causing a blue or green patina to form over their surface when exposed to water. On the other hand, steel planters or wall hangings exclusively made from iron will rust.
Hence, before placing brass sculptures in your garden or setting your iron planter in your backyard, you should consider using a metallic sealer spray.
A high-quality sealer spray will adhere well to metallic surfaces and create a protective layer between the metal and air. Once applied, you will only need to retreat the surface after one or two years.
Required Material
Step-By-Step Process
1. Prepping the surface
For the sealer to bind nicely to the surface, the surface should be free from dust. Hence, start by cleaning the metal ornament. You can rinse the surface with water and use a brush to remove dust. Let the surface dry before proceeding to the next step.
2. Spray the sealer
Use the spray from at least 6 inches away from the surface. The first coat should be thin and even. Use light dusting sprays for the first coat and regular sprays on subsequent layers for a smooth gloss finish. Let the first coat dry thoroughly.
3. Apply a second layer
Apply a second layer on the surface and let it dry. You can add more layers if it is required. Let the surface dry and wait at least 24 hours before using it outdoors.
Precautions
- Always use the sealer sprays in a well-ventilated room as it contains harmful fumes.
- Wear a respirator or mask while spraying.
How To Waterproof Outdoor Fabric Decoration Items?
Waterproofing Outdoor Fabric Decorations Using Fabric Sealer Spray
Outdoor decorations made from fabric may include cushion covers for your patio furniture, curtains, and more that you must waterproof to make them last.
The primary reason for leaks in the material is the pores on the surface. A waterproof spray fills in these pores, which will prevent the absorption of water. The sealer spray can last up to six months, and reapplication is required after that.
Required Material
You only need a high-grade waterproof spray for fabric such as the Rust-Oleum Outdoor Fabric Spray.
Step-By-Step Process
1. Test the fabric
Many fabric items meant for outdoor use are designed from waterproof material. Thus, you do not always need to apply a sealer. To check whether a fabric is waterproof or not, drop a few drops of water on it.
If the water starts beading and running off the surface, the fabric is waterproof, and you do not need a sealer. However, if the water is absorbed, you should apply a sealer.
2. Apply the fabric sealer spray
Keep the spray at least six to eight inches away from the fabric while spraying. Start with light sprays and apply a thin coat of sealer. Leave the fabric for a few hours so that the sealer can fill in the pores of the fabric and become dry.
3. Apply a second coat
Apply another coat of the sealer and let the fabric dry.
4. Test the fabric again
Spray water on the fabric to check whether it is being absorbed or repelled. This would also reveal any spots missed during the application of the sealer. Cover the missed areas, if any, with sealer and wait at least a day before exposing the fabric to water.
Precautions
- The spray contains flammable substances. Thus, keep away from any heat source or sparks while using the spray.
Outdoor decorations can be expensive, and if not taken care of, your will money will go to waste too soon.
Suppose you want your outdoor decorations to accent your landscape for as long as possible. In that case, you should waterproof them before exposing them to mother nature.
However, sealing these decorations once will not be sufficient; you will need to reapply the sealer spray, stain, or wax as soon as the previous coat starts to wear off. We hope that after reading our detailed guide, you can protect your outdoor decorations effortlessly.
