Refinishing mango wood for outdoor use.

[nimroo]

I bought a used table. I want to use it outdoors. the legs are mango wood. the top is metal and i have already made it outdoor tough. regarding the legs, the description says: 

"Solid mango wood legs with acrylic-based lacquer coat, hand-finished with a rubbed wash wax"

How would you treat this so it will last outdoors?

 

Thanks!

[wtnhighlander]

According to the Wood Database entry for mango, it is not particularly rot / fungus resistant. At a minimum, I would soak the bottom inch or so of the legs with epoxy to prevent moisture from wicking into the end grain.

[Von]

+1 to @wtnhighlander

In my experience, the short answer to your question is that the finish won't last outdoors, at least not in any sort of full exposure situation. A film coat like a lacquer will protect it but wear out after a couple years and start flaking and looking bad. At that point you'll want to sand and re-finish. If it's shaded/under shelter, it will last a long longer.

[Ron Swanson Jr.]

I've always been under the impression that laquor is not great for outdoor applications. 

I think @BillyJack is a laquor guy and could probably confirm or disconfirm that.

[Tpt life]

They lacquer wooden boats all the time. I think success is in its maintenance schedule. 

[wtnhighlander]

@Von alluded to this, and many people don't realize it. Sun destroys the finish, not rain. Of course, water getting to the wood under the damaged finish is the source of fungus & rot....

[Coop]

On 9/6/2025 at 4:32 PM, wtnhighlander said:

@Von alluded to this, and many people don't realize it. Sun destroys the finish, not rain. Of course, water getting to the wood under the damaged finish is the source of fungus & rot....

+1

Marc has a video that reinforces this. 

[Enzo Caleb]

Mango wood can weather quickly outdoors, even with its lacquer finish. I’d recommend lightly sanding the legs, then applying a few coats of spar urethane or marine-grade varnish for UV and moisture protection. Regular reapplication every year or so will help preserve strength and appearance.