Long-Lasting Outdoor Furniture

Family Handyman

Any wood resting on the ground will rot, especially if it’s end grain. That’s because water wicks up into the same channels the tree used to transport water. So whenever I build outdoor furniture, I do two things: First I seal the end grain with Titebond III (or any other waterproof woodworking glue). And if the legs are resting on masonry, I pound in plastic furniture buttons ($3 per set at home centers). That keeps the wood slightly elevated so it won’t be sitting in puddles. — Travis Larson

Family Handyman