How do you weatherproof a birdhouse?

Installing a birdhouse in your backyard is a great way to attract beautiful birds and enjoy their songs and colors. However, exposing a birdhouse to the elements without protection can shorten its lifespan and make it less inviting to birds. Properly weatherproofing a birdhouse will help it withstand rain, snow, sun, and wind so it remains useful for seasons to come.

Why Weatherproof a Birdhouse?

Like any wooden structure left untreated and unprotected outside, a birdhouse will gradually deteriorate from exposure to the weather. Rain can cause the wood to swell and warp. Sunlight and heat can dry it out, causing cracking and splitting. Snow and wind can break parts of the birdhouse. By weatherproofing a birdhouse, you protect it against moisture, sunlight, temperature changes and physical shocks from the elements.

A weatherproof birdhouse will have a longer lifespan, saving you time and money on replacements. Birds will also find a sturdy, draft-free birdhouse more attractive for raising their young. A protected, stable environment helps ensure baby birds will survive and thrive through the seasons.

How to Choose Weatherproofing Products

There are several products designed to protect wood from outdoor damage you can use to weatherproof a birdhouse:

• Exterior paint or stain: Specially formulated exterior paints and stains protect the wood from moisture and sun while adding color. Be sure to choose a non-toxic product safe for birds.
• Water sealants: Clear water repellent finishes coat the exterior wood with a waterproof barrier.
• Epoxy resin: Used by woodworkers, this clear, thick resin makes surfaces highly water resistant when brushed on.
• Polyurethane: This clear varnish creates a hard, protective finish that repels water well.

The best solution is often to use exterior paint or stain combined with a clear waterproofing sealant. The pigmented paint protects against sun and adds color, while the resin or polyurethane coats the wood to prevent water damage.

How to Prepare a Birdhouse for Weatherproofing

Proper prep is key to achieving a smooth, long-lasting weatherproofed surface. Here are the steps to take before applying any weatherproofing product:

1. Lightly sand the entire outer surface with fine 120-150 grit sandpaper. This helps rough up the wood so the sealant can soak in and adhere properly.
2. Wipe off any dust with a dry cloth.
3. Apply a primer coat if you’ll be using an exterior paint or stain. The primer helps the paint stick to the wood.
4. Allow any primer to dry fully before painting or sealing.
5. Paint on any decorative exterior paint color. Let the paint dry fully before adding a protective clear coat.

Your birdhouse is now ready to start weatherproofing! Having a smooth, clean, primed surface will ensure the products you apply perform at their best.

How to Apply Exterior Stain and Water Sealant

Staining and sealing a birdhouse provides moisture protection while letting the natural wood grain show. Follow these steps:

1. Select an exterior stain in a color of your choice that is non-toxic when dry.
2. Stir the stain well before and during application.
3. Using a paintbrush, apply a coat of stain to all outer surfaces of the birdhouse and roof.
4. Let the stain dry fully. Check the product directions for dry times, as this may take 24 hours or more.
5. Once stained, apply a water sealant finish like Thompson’s Water Seal or Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish over the stain following the product’s directions. Use a clean paintbrush to apply a smooth coat over all surfaces.
6. Allow sealant to dry fully before placing your birdhouse outside.

The stain provides color while the sealant finish protects the wood from excess moisture. Check the birdhouse yearly and reapply sealant if needed.

How to Apply Exterior Paint and Water Sealant

For a bolder, more colorful look, you can paint your birdhouse before sealing it. Follow these steps:

1. Select an exterior latex paint in your desired color. Choose a low-VOC formula safe for birds when dry.
2. Stir the paint before and periodically during application. If using multiple cans, mix all paint together to ensure color consistency.
3. Using a paintbrush, apply two coats of paint to all outer surfaces of the birdhouse, letting the first coat dry fully before adding the second.
4. Allow the paint to cure for several days according to the manufacturer’s directions so it is fully hard and stable.
5. Apply a protective water sealant like Thompson’s Water Seal over the cured paint using a clean paintbrush and following the product’s directions.
6. Let the sealant dry fully before placing the painted birdhouse outside.

The paint provides a vibrant color, while the sealant finish protects the paint from damage caused by excess moisture. Check your birdhouse yearly and reapply sealant when needed.

How to Apply Epoxy Resin

For the most heavy-duty weatherproof seal, you can coat a birdhouse in epoxy resin. Here is the process:

1. Select a small can of two-part epoxy resin, which contains separate resin and hardener components. Check that it is safe for outdoor use.
2. Wearing protective gloves, pour the resin and hardener together according to package directions and stir thoroughly. This activates the epoxy.
3. Working quickly once mixed, use a foam brush to apply a thick coat of epoxy over all outer surfaces of the birdhouse. Spread smoothly and avoid dripping.
4. Allow the epoxy to fully cure overnight or as directed before handling. It will dry to a clear, shiny, rock-hard finish.
5. Once cured, additional coats of epoxy can be applied for added protection. Lightly sand between coats.

The cured epoxy finish is highly durable and moisture resistant. Wipe the birdhouse with a damp cloth periodically to clean dust and dirt off the slick surface.

How to Apply Polyurethane

Polyurethane forms a clear, protective varnish coating. To apply:

1. Purchase an exterior-grade polyurethane if available, or standard polyurethane.
2. Using a foam brush or lint-free rag, wipe on a thin first coat of polyurethane over all outer wood surfaces.
3. Allow the first coat to dry fully according to the product’s directions, usually at least 6-8 hours.
4. Lightly sand the first coat with fine 220 grit sandpaper to smooth any drips or brush marks.
5. Wipe on a second coat of polyurethane and let dry fully before installing your birdhouse.

The polyurethane dries to a clear, glossy finish that protects the wood from moisture. Reapply a fresh coat each year as needed to maintain the protective layer.

How to Weatherproof Birdhouse Roofs

The roof is especially vulnerable to weather damage. Use these added measures to help protect it:

• Overhang the roof 2-3 inches from the walls so water drips off instead of running down the sides.
• Seal any roof overhang edges with caulk to prevent water wicking up into the wood.
• Consider using a waterproof roofing material like metal, composite shingles or rubber instead of wood.
• Install a layer of self-adhesive roofing underlayment, like Grace Ice and Water Shield, beneath shingles.
• Coat roof fasteners with silicone caulk to prevent leaks.

A well-sealed roof covered with protective shingles or metal helps keep interior nesting areas dry in wet weather.

How to Maintain a Weatherproofed Birdhouse

A properly weatherproofed birdhouse needs little maintenance, but follow these tips:

• Check the birdhouse yearly for any cracks or deterioration in the weatherproofing, and touch up or reapply as needed. This will extend its lifespan.
• Gently clean the exterior each spring with a soft scrub brush and mild detergent, then rinse. Avoid pressure washing.
• Apply a fresh coat of protective sealant every 2-3 years, or whenever water is no longer beading on the surface.
• Remove any bird nests or debris from interior to allow for air circulation and drainage.

Conclusion

Weatherproofing a birdhouse allows it to withstand all types of weather so it remains functional for years. By properly preparing surfaces, applying protective stains, paints or clear coatings, and maintaining the finish, you can extend the lifespan of a birdhouse and provide birds with a durable habitat in your yard. Your extra effort weatherproofing a handmade or store-bought birdhouse will be rewarded with seasons of beauty from your feathered lodgers.