Teak wood is an extremely dense-grained wood with varying colors from soft, even blond to rich golden amber and deep brown. Its natural oils and rubber content constantly protect it from the elements. Teak Outdoor Furniture, if left to age naturally, will gradually turn a silver-gray color with a raised grain.
Even though Teak is very durable, it still requires some care if you want it to be long lasting. If you desire the naturally aged look, Teak Outdoor Furniture should still be hand washed with mild nontoxic soap and water to remove the dirt, moss and some of the oxidation on the wood. This should be done at least once a year. NEVER PRESSURE WASH your Teak Outdoor Furniture. This might damage or scar the wood. We also highly recommend you DO NOT use wire brushes or steel wool, as particles may be left behind in the grain and will rust. For tough stains, we suggest sanding with a fine grade sand paper (320 grit is fine for sanding). When sanding, always go with the grain.
While some people prefer natural aging, others do not. If natural aging of your Teak Outdoor Furniture is not your preference, there are things you can do to prevent the look of natural aging.
Coverings and Storage Outdoor furniture covers can be purchased to protect your investment when it is not in use. During longer periods in which the furniture is not in use, you can put it in storage. However, this really is not necessary if you care for it properly.
Teak Oil Even if your Teak Outdoor Furniture has aged naturally, washing and sanding will bring back its natural color if it has not been stained. After it has been washed, let it dry overnight then sand it with a fine grain sandpaper (320 grit is fine for sanding), revealing its natural color. Next, use a soft, clean, dry cloth to wipe away any dust then apply the Teak oil. Teak oil is best applied with a brush, lightly and at least three times. Allow an hour between each coat so the oil will saturate the wood. After each coat, you will know if you need to apply any additional coats based on the color of the wood. Repeat this process every three months.
Teak oil does not prolong the life of Teak Outdoor Furniture but it does help the wood to maintain its original color. Do not use a Teak Oil Sealer on outdoor Teak furniture. Teak oil sealers should be used only on indoor Teak furniture. Outdoor Teak furniture will turn black due to the extra oil which will cause mildew.
Staining Before staining Teak Outdoor Furniture, it is very important to note that once stained, it will never return to its natural color or the naturally aged silver-gray. Staining is permanent. Before staining, you will need to hand wash the Teak with mild nontoxic soap and water. After letting it dry overnight, sand it with a fine grain sandpaper (320 grit is fine for sanding), and remember to sand with the grain. Next, use a soft, clean, dry cloth to wipe away any dust then apply the stain you have chosen.
Painting Painting Teak Outdoor Furniture is discouraged as paint will blister and peel due to the oil content of the wood. However, if you want to paint your Teak Outdoor Furniture, prepare the wood as you would if you were going to stain it then apply your paint. After the paint has dried you will want to wipe it again to remove any dust particles that may have settled on the furniture, then apply a semi-transparent stain that contains a UV inhibitor.
