Mango wood, prized for its rich color and beautiful grain, is a popular choice for furniture and décor. But can this tropical hardwood withstand the elements? The simple answer is: it depends. Leaving mango wood outdoors exposes it to a range of environmental factors that can significantly impact its longevity and appearance. This guide delves into the specifics, helping you determine if your mango wood pieces can thrive in an outdoor setting.
Understanding Mango Wood's Properties
Mango wood, sourced from mango trees grown primarily in India and Southeast Asia, possesses several characteristics that influence its outdoor suitability:
- Density: While relatively dense compared to some softwoods, mango wood is not as dense as some other hardwoods known for their exceptional weather resistance like teak or ipe. This means it's more susceptible to moisture damage.
- Durability: It offers decent durability but is not naturally weather-resistant. This makes it prone to warping, cracking, and rotting if exposed to prolonged moisture and extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Oil Content: Mango wood contains natural oils, offering some degree of protection against moisture, but this protection is limited and insufficient for consistent outdoor exposure.
Factors Affecting Outdoor Durability of Mango Wood
Several factors determine how well mango wood holds up outdoors:
1. Climate:
- Humidity: High humidity accelerates the deterioration process, making mango wood less suitable for damp climates.
- Rainfall: Prolonged exposure to rain leads to water absorption, causing swelling, cracking, and eventual rotting.
- Temperature fluctuations: Extreme temperature changes contribute to expansion and contraction, stressing the wood and leading to cracking.
- Sunlight: UV rays from the sun can fade the wood's color over time, making it dull and less attractive.
2. Treatment and Finishing:
- Untreated mango wood: Untreated mango wood is highly vulnerable to the elements and should never be left outside for extended periods.
- Finished mango wood: Proper finishing significantly improves weather resistance. High-quality outdoor-grade sealants, paints, or oils can create a protective barrier, extending the wood's lifespan. However, even with a finish, regular maintenance is crucial.
3. Location and Exposure:
- Covered areas: Placing mango wood furniture under a covered patio or porch offers considerable protection from rain and direct sunlight, prolonging its life.
- Direct sun exposure: Avoid placing mango wood in areas with direct and prolonged sun exposure.
- Ground contact: Never allow mango wood to come into direct contact with the ground. This prevents moisture absorption from the soil.
Making Mango Wood Suitable for Outdoor Use
While not ideal for constant outdoor use, with careful preparation and maintenance, you can extend the life of your mango wood pieces:
- Choose high-quality outdoor-grade finishes: Look for sealants specifically designed for outdoor use, offering UV protection and water resistance.
- Apply multiple coats: Multiple thin coats provide better protection than a single thick coat.
- Regular maintenance: Clean your mango wood furniture regularly and reapply the sealant or oil every few months, or as recommended by the manufacturer, to maintain its protection.
- Store during harsh weather: Bring your mango wood pieces inside or cover them during periods of heavy rain, snow, or extreme temperatures.
Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Ultimately, the decision of whether to leave mango wood outside depends on your climate, the level of protection afforded, and the frequency of maintenance you're willing to undertake. While it's not inherently weather-resistant, with the right preparation and care, you can enjoy the beauty of mango wood in outdoor settings for a considerable amount of time. However, for consistently harsh conditions, other more durable hardwood species are a better choice. Remember, regular maintenance is key to maximizing its lifespan in outdoor environments.
