All of the wood used in the garden series (benches, chairs, swings and gliders) consists of a high grade hardwood sealed with a 3-step process. This process is stain, water seal and UV coating. This is a good quality finish for outdoor furniture. That being said, nothing available today offers total protection for exposed wood from the elements in the long term. The protective seal on these products is a penetrating sealant. The UV outer layer repels the sun's rays which protects both the stain and water seal. Long term exposure to the sun breaks down this outer layer, then the water sealant, allowing moisture to damage the wood. The rate at which this will occur depends on the amount of sun exposure the wood is subjected to. (Example: A bench in full sun in a high altitude location will require more attention to wood maintenance than a bench in partial shade at a lower altitude) Also, in snowy climates, covering your furniture or storing it indoors during the winter will prolong the life of the wood seal. As the finish begins to break down, you may try a light application of tung oil. (Take care to allow the oil to penetrate thoroughly and test with a cloth before sitting on it!)