Refurbish Brown Jordan Patio Furniture

Refurbishing Brown Jordan Patio Furniture: A Comprehensive Guide

Brown Jordan patio furniture is renowned for its enduring quality and timeless designs. Built to withstand the elements, these pieces often last for decades. However, even the most durable outdoor furniture will eventually show signs of wear and tear. Refurbishing Brown Jordan patio furniture is a worthwhile investment, restoring its original beauty, extending its lifespan, and saving money compared to purchasing new replacements. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the process, covering assessment, preparation, repair, and refinishing.

Assessing the Condition of Your Brown Jordan Furniture

The first step in any refurbishment project is a thorough assessment of the furniture's condition. This involves a close examination of all components, identifying areas requiring attention. Common issues include frame damage, worn or torn straps, faded or damaged paint, and corroded hardware. A systematic approach to assessment will help create a realistic plan for the refurbishment process.

Start by inspecting the frames. Look for any cracks, dents, or signs of rust. Pay particular attention to joints and welds, as these are areas prone to stress and potential failure. Minor surface rust can often be addressed with proper cleaning and preparation, but significant rust may indicate underlying structural damage requiring welding or replacement of affected sections. Documenting these issues with photographs can be helpful for future reference and when sourcing materials.

Next, evaluate the condition of the vinyl straps, if applicable. Check for tears, cracks, or excessive stretching. Faded colors or a brittle texture are also indicators that the straps need replacement. The number of straps requiring replacement will determine the scope of this part of the project. Also, check the method of attachment – whether they are held by rivets, screws, or internal sliders – to ensure you can handle the re-attachment process efficiently.

Examine the paint or powder coating. Look for scratches, chips, or areas where the finish is peeling. Consider the overall appearance of the finish. Is it simply faded, or is it significantly damaged? Large areas of damage will likely necessitate stripping and re-finishing the entire piece, while minor imperfections might be addressed with touch-up paint. Understand the difference between powder coating and wet paint; powder coating requires specialized equipment for application, while wet paint can be applied with conventional spraying techniques.

Finally, inspect the hardware. Screws, bolts, and other fasteners can corrode or become damaged over time. Assess whether they can be cleaned and reused, or if they need to be replaced. Replacing hardware is often a relatively inexpensive way to improve the overall appearance and functionality of the furniture. Note the size and type of hardware needed for replacement to ensure you purchase the correct components.

Preparing the Furniture for Refurbishment

Proper preparation is critical for a successful refurbishment. This stage involves cleaning, dismantling, and stripping the furniture to create a clean and sound base for repairs and refinishing. Rushing this process can compromise the final result and lead to premature failure of the new finish.

Begin by thoroughly cleaning the furniture. Use a mild detergent and water solution to remove dirt, grime, and any loose debris. For stubborn stains or mildew, a specialized outdoor cleaner may be necessary. Rinse the furniture thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before proceeding. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish or the underlying material.

Next, dismantle the furniture as much as possible. Remove straps, cushions, and any other detachable components. This will allow for easier access during cleaning, repair, and refinishing. Carefully label and organize the components to ensure proper reassembly later. Take pictures throughout the disassembly process to provide a visual guide for reassembly.

The next step is stripping the old finish. The method used will depend on the type of finish and the condition of the furniture. For paint, chemical strippers or mechanical methods, such as sanding or media blasting, can be used. Chemical strippers are effective for removing multiple layers of paint but require careful handling and proper ventilation. Sanding is a more controlled method, but it can be time-consuming and may not be suitable for intricate designs. Media blasting is highly effective but requires specialized equipment and can be abrasive.

For powder-coated finishes, media blasting is often the preferred method. This involves using compressed air to propel abrasive materials, such as sand or glass beads, against the surface to remove the coating. The type of media used will affect the aggressiveness of the blasting process. Consult with a professional if you are unsure which method is best for your furniture, particularly if the furniture is made of aluminum as it can be easily damaged by incorrect media blasting techniques.

After stripping the finish, thoroughly clean the furniture again to remove any residue from the stripping process. Use a degreaser to ensure that the surface is free of any oils or contaminants that could interfere with the adhesion of the new finish.

Repairing and Refinishing the Furniture

Once the furniture is prepared, the repair and refinishing process can begin. This involves addressing any structural damage, replacing worn or damaged components, and applying a new protective finish. The goal is to restore the furniture to its original condition and protect it from future damage.

Address any structural repairs first. This may involve welding cracks, straightening bent frames, or replacing damaged sections. If you are not comfortable with welding or other metalworking techniques, it is best to consult with a professional. Ensuring the structural integrity of the frame is essential for the longevity and safety of the furniture.

Replace any worn or damaged straps. Measure the existing straps to determine the correct length and width for replacements. Brown Jordan typically uses vinyl straps, which are available in a variety of colors and styles. Use the appropriate tools to attach the new straps, ensuring they are securely fastened. For straps that are attached with rivets, a rivet gun will be necessary. For straps that are attached with screws, make sure to use stainless steel screws to prevent corrosion.

Apply a new finish to the furniture. This can be done with paint or powder coating. If using paint, choose a high-quality exterior paint that is specifically designed for metal surfaces. Apply multiple thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. For powder coating, the furniture will need to be professionally coated and baked to cure the finish. Powder coating provides a more durable and long-lasting finish than paint but requires specialized equipment.

Consider the color and finish of the new coating. While restoring the original color is an option, refurbishment provides an opportunity to customize the furniture to match your existing décor. Select a color and finish that complements your outdoor space and reflects your personal style. For a classic look, consider a neutral color with a matte or satin finish. For a more modern look, consider a bold color with a glossy finish.

Finally, reassemble the furniture, replacing any hardware that was removed during disassembly. Use stainless steel hardware to prevent corrosion. Ensure that all components are securely fastened and that the furniture is stable and safe to use. With proper care and maintenance, your refurbished Brown Jordan patio furniture will provide years of enjoyment.

Beyond the frame and straps, consider the cushions. If the existing cushions are worn, faded, or damaged, replacing them is a worthwhile investment. New cushions can significantly enhance the comfort and appearance of the furniture. Choose outdoor fabrics that are resistant to fading, mildew, and water damage. Consider custom-made cushions for a perfect fit and a personalized look. Remember to consider the foam insert within; replacing this with a high-density outdoor foam adds greatly to the comfort and longevity of the cushion.

Regular maintenance will help to prolong the life of your refurbished Brown Jordan patio furniture. Clean the furniture regularly with a mild detergent and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Protect the furniture from prolonged exposure to the elements by covering it when not in use. Store the furniture indoors during the winter months to prevent damage from snow and ice. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your refurbished Brown Jordan patio furniture remains beautiful and functional for years to come.