Here at The Table Guy we’ve been building garden and patio tables from reclaimed scaffold boards for over a decade. With the right care, your table will last for many more summers (and survive the odd soggy British winter too!).

The golden rule? All outdoor wood needs a little TLC. Rain, frost and blazing sunshine will age even the sturdiest table if it’s left to fend for itself. Luckily, keeping your table looking its best is straightforward.

Treating Your Scaffold Board Tabletop

Every scaffold board top we make is treated with OSMO, a premium natural oil that soaks into the timber fibres. Unlike varnish, it won’t peel or flake — it nourishes the wood instead.

• Two coats only: OSMO can only absorb so much; never apply more than two coats at once.

• Top-ups welcome: You can add an extra coat now and then to keep the finish fresh.

  
  

💡 Pro tip: Aim for an end-of-season re-coat. Set aside an hour (depending on table size) on a dry day. Early mornings are perfect — less chance of a sudden downpour!

Step-by-step recoating

1. Light sand: Use fine sandpaper, just enough to freshen the surface.

2. Clean: Wipe away dust with white spirit and leave to dry fully.

3. Apply oil sparingly: Less is more. Use a good brush and spread thinly.

4. Dry time: In warm, dry conditions, your table will be ready for a second coat after 4–6 hours (if needed).

5. Too much oil? Wipe away excess with a lint-free cloth.

   
   

Looking After the Frame

Our tables are built with adjustable feet to keep them off damp ground. Most of the time, frame care is as simple as a wipe with a soapy cloth.

If you spot a scratch or scuff:

• Lightly sand the area

• Clean with white spirit

• Let it dry

• Recoat as needed

  
  

Simple, quick, and keeps things looking smart.

Should You Cover Your Table?

Yes — but do it properly! Covers protect from rain and frost, but the wood needs to breathe. If moisture gets trapped, you risk mould and discolouration.

Try this trick:

• Pop a football or a roll of bubble wrap under the cover.

• This creates a slope so rain runs off while air still circulates.

  
  

Natural Expansion & Contraction

Wood moves with the seasons — that’s part of its charm. Our scaffold board tops are built with 5mm gaps between boards. When it rains for weeks on end, the gaps may close a little, then open again in drier weather. This is completely normal and doesn’t harm your table.

Final Thoughts

A little care goes a long way. Re-oiling once a year, keeping the frame clean, and using a breathable cover will make sure your reclaimed scaffold board patio table stays looking brilliant for years.

Got questions? We’re always happy to help. We can also supply the oils, paints, and care products we use in our workshop — just get in touch.