How to: revamp your wooden garden furniture

Untreated wood will weather over time, turning grey and developing minor imperfections and splits in the grain, and it will also be more susceptible to stains, algae and mould. Here' how to look after it properly...

* It's a good idea to treat new fences, trellises and arbours with a product that will protect it from the elements, such as Cuprinol Garden Wood Preserver (£12.99 for 1L), which colours the wood as well as preserving it.

* Got an older fence that has become weathered and needs reviving? 'Apply a wax-enriched protecting formula that will penetrate into the wood to kill the fungal spores that cause rot,' says Marina Poza, Cuprinol brand manager. Try Cuprinol Ultimate Garden Wood Protector (£27.98, for 4l), which comes in six colours.

* If you've got a big area to tackle, try a spray-on stain, such as Ronseal One Coat Sprayable Fencelife (£13.99 for 5l), and use a Ronseal Pump Sprayer (£28.98), to get the job done five times faster than with a paintbrush.

* Softwood garden furniture, such as pine or cedar, can be pressure treated to resist decay and mould. A wash now and again with soapy water to remove dirt should be all that’s needed to keep it in good condition, and the same applies to pressure-treated gates, fences, trellises and decking.

* Hardwood garden furniture, such as teak and iroko, contain natural oils that provide protection from weathering. To protect and prolong the natural colour of hardwood, use a specially formulated sealing product recommended by the furniture's manufacturer.

How to clean up grubby garden furniture

Try this simple treatment to clean up grubby furniture, and before applying paint, varnish or stain

● Brush away dirt and dust with a soft-bristle brush.
● Make up a solution of 60ml washing-up liquid and 3l warm water.
● Dip in a lint-free cloth or sponge, wring it out and wipe over all the surfaces. Be careful that unsealed wicker or rattan doesn’t get too wet.
● Rinse with clean water and dry completely before using or storing.

Tip Clean nooks and crannies in wicker and rattan furniture with your vacuum cleaner’s upholstery brush attachment.