Frequently Asked Questions and Fun Facts

How long does a picnic table last?

This depends on the type of wood used to make the picnic table. An impregnated spruce picnic table lasts 6 to 8 years. A Douglas fir picnic table lasts 10 to 15 years. A hardwood picnic table lasts 20 to 25 years. The actual lifespan of a picnic table also depends on its location. If placed on a stone patio, it will last longer than if its legs are in the grass or if it is under a tree. Proper maintenance can also extend the lifespan of a picnic table. For example, cleaning it thoroughly every year and treating it with oil or stain can help preserve the wood.

How many people can sit at a picnic table?

• A 120 cm to 150 cm picnic table is suitable for 4 people.
• A 180 cm picnic table is suitable for 6 people.
• A 200 cm picnic table is suitable for 8 people.
• A 300 cm picnic table is suitable for 10 to 12 people.
• A 400 cm picnic table is suitable for 12 to 14 people.

Which type of wood is most suited for a picnic table?

Douglas fir is an excellent choice for picnic tables. It is a strong type of wood that, when untreated, lasts 10 to 15 years, depending on where the table is placed. If the picnic table is on a patio, Douglas fir will last longer than if its legs are in the grass.

What is the advantage of a foldable picnic table?

The advantage of a foldable picnic table is that it can be folded up when not in use. This immediately frees up space in your garden, which is especially useful if you have limited space. This is convenient if your children want to play in the garden after a meal.

How do you maintain a picnic table?

If your picnic table is made of impregnated wood, it does not require treatment. Otherwise, you can treat the wood with a suitable oil or stain. For Douglas, for example, Hermadix Douglas oil is a good option. Treatment is not always necessary. If your picnic table has turned green after the winter, you can clean it with a mild cleaning agent, such as green soap.

How do you treat a wooden picnic table?

For the first treatment, it is best to apply two coats. Lightly sand the wood between applications to achieve optimal protection. After that, an annual treatment is sufficient. You can choose between oil or stain, but make sure the product is suitable for the type of wood your picnic table is made of.

Do the Bench and Table 2 in 1 and picnic tables need to be treated?

The bench and table / picnic tables do not need to be treated. When left untreated, the wood will gradually turn grey over time. If you wish to preserve the colour for longer, you can treat the bench/table with Douglas Oil Natural. The first time, the bench/table must be treated twice, and afterwards annually. This treatment mainly focuses on preserving the colour. Naturally, treatment also offers more protection against weather influences, but only if it is repeated every year. Never paint the bench and table with regular paint, because when the wood moves, the paint will flake off and you will have to remove all the paint before the bench and table / picnic table can be used again.

If you would like to treat your Bench and Table 2 in 1, we have assembled complete kits with Douglas oil and all the necessary supplies in four colours.

Are small hairline cracks normal?

A frequently asked question concerns small hairline cracks in Douglas wood. Small hairline cracks in Douglas wood are completely normal. They can be short, but longer hairline cracks also occur. They are caused by the natural movement of the wood, especially during very dry weather. In damp conditions, they may become less visible again. They do not affect the lifespan of the bench and table and are therefore a natural characteristic of this type of wood. If you are unsure whether the hairline cracks in your bench are normal, please send us an email with photos of the cracks. We will review and respond to your email as quickly as possible.

What should you do if resin comes out of the wood?

Wood is a natural product, and resin can therefore form within the wood. Allow the resin to harden and then gently sand it with fine sandpaper. Do not rub fresh resin straight away, as this will spread it and make it more difficult to remove. If resin gets on clothing, HG offers an effective product for removing resin.

Do we work with sustainable wood?

Yes, we purchase our wood from companies that are certified with the PEFC quality mark. PEFC is an international certification scheme for wood (products) and paper. PEFC stands for Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification. It is supported by governments, businesses and regional organisations. Wood with the PEFC quality mark comes from sustainably and socially managed forests. This means that consideration is also given to the traditions of the local population.