Teak is a popular choice for woodworking projects because of its hardness and durability. So you might wonder if applying wood stains and other finishes is necessary. Stick until the end of this article to learn the answer!
For the longest time, I thought teak furniture did not require stains, sealants, and other types of finishes. After all, it already contains pure oils resistant to moisture and UV damage. It also has a distinct golden color that suits both interior and exterior design.
However, upon further research, I discovered that teak is still susceptible to regular wear and tear. From then on, I ensure to apply wood stains to maintain my teak furniture.
But what are wood stains? And can you stain teak wood?
Find out the answers to these questions below!
What Is A Wood Stain?
Wood stains refer to a type of wood paint that can enhance and change the wood’s color. They are available in different pigments. Therefore, the effect can vary from a subtle hue to a bolder transformation. That said, dramatic colors do not cover the teak wood’s natural pattern and texture. They still create a natural-looking finish.
Besides adding color or darkening teak, a wood stain acts as a wood filler. It seals off the open pores in your teak furniture. At the same time, it can prevent water from seeping into the surface and leaving damage.
Furthermore, staining teak adds a protective layer against UV rays. It ultimately slows discoloration and weathering of your teak wood furniture
Can You Use Stain Teak on Wood?
Yes, you can stain teak furniture and other types of hardwoods.
It is one of the best choices for enhancing the appearance of your outdoor furniture. It can introduce a subtle or bold color on the surface.
At the same time, the stain color does not affect the grain pattern or texture. Thus, you do not have to worry about removing the natural protective teak oil. It still ensures a smooth surface protecting wood from direct sunlight and moisture.
Check out Best Stain for Teak Wood Surfaces for our top picks and a buying guide to help you shop for your project.
Is It Important to Stain Teak Wood?
A wood stain sounds like it can only add pigment to your teak furniture. So, you might be asking yourself the following questions. What if I do not want to change the color of my wooden furniture? Do I need to stain teak wood?
It is not necessary to stain teak furniture. In reality, teak is naturally water resistant. It can also withstand various conditions and environments without this wood paint and wood sealant.
However, note that using wood stains offers several benefits. And depending on your needs and preferences, these advantages may be indispensable.
First, a wood stain provides extra protection from harsh elements. It can help your teak wood resist dirt, rain, wind, and UV rays. So if you own teak outdoor furniture, it is essential to apply wood stain.
Additionally, teak wood stains allow you to refinish your furniture. This way, it can match your interior or exterior design. It also helps to keep your teak pieces visually appealing.
Finally, staining teak wood extends the lifespan of your indoor and outdoor furniture. It can effectively slow down the fading or weathering process. It also prevents the wood from warping or drying out as quickly, so you can use your furniture for many years.
How Do You Stain Teak Wood Furniture?
Now that you know the benefits of wood stains, you probably cannot wait to apply them to your furniture. But how do you begin?
Read on as I share the step-by-step guide on staining teak wood furniture.
Prepare the Working Area
The first step in applying wood stains is to prep your working area.
Choose the right location, preferably outside. Move anything out of the way to allow enough working room and prevent staining other furniture pieces.
You might also want to cover the floor, adjacent lawn, or nearby plants. Note that wood stains contain chemicals that damage the grass and other foliage. Thus, it is essential to use newspapers, plastic sheets, or old clothes to collect spills and sanding residue. It is also best to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Once this is done, place all the supplies you need within reach to make the task quicker. These include sandpaper, sanding block, clean rags, soft brush, cleaning materials, and the wood stain product of your choice.
Clean the Wood
After completing the prep work, you can start cleaning the wooden furniture.
Mix water with mild dish soap or detergent to remove dirt. Next, apply this cleaning solution with a soft-bristled brush or clean cloth. Then, rinse the surface using clean water.
If the wood surface is slightly dirty, wiping it with a damp cloth is enough to clean it.
Did you encounter stubborn debris? Avoid using chemical cleaning products because they can damage teak wood. Instead, consider adding bleach to the soap mixture. Proceed cleaning the furniture with caution.
Ensure to follow the direction of the wood grain when wiping off debris. Doing so can remove dirt stuck on the wood.
Sand the Surface
Once clean, it is time to sand the entire surface before staining it.
Consider investing in an orbital sander to smoothen flat and large surfaces. However, it is fine to use a handheld sanding block when dealing with small projects.
Use 120-grit sandpaper with your sander to remove the existing finish on your teak furniture.
Continue rubbing down the surface to remove rough spots. If the wood is already smooth to the touch, use a lint-free cloth or dry brush to wipe off the sanding wood dust.
After the initial sanding, switch to 220-grit sandpaper to target small pits. Scrub the wood surface the same way you did with the coarse 120-grit sandpaper. And ensure to cover every inch of the teak wood furniture.
Keep sanding until the surface is completely even and smooth without noticeable bumps. Do not forget to remove sanding dust.
Seal the Furniture
Apply sanding sealer on your newly polished furniture. It is best to use a light coat of the sanding sealer to prepare the wood for the stain.
Wait for a few minutes to allow the solution to work. Then, wipe off the excess sealer before it dries or blends with the wood.
Avoid leaving the teak sealer for too long. All you need to do is condition the surface to absorb the stain better.
Apply the Wood Stain
After the sealer is completely dry, you can apply the stain.
It is recommended to test the product on a small area first. Doing so lets you see how the color will appear.
Once you are satisfied with the shade, proceed to stain the entire surface. You can use a foam brush or a lint-free cloth for this task.
Ensure to follow the direction of the teak wood grain to paint teak wood evenly.
Let the Surface Dry
Once you apply the wood stain, let it dry for several minutes.
If you want a lighter color or a subtle effect, wipe off any excess stain within five minutes.
Those who prefer a darker shade can leave the stain on the teak wood for around 10 minutes.
After wiping the excess stain, allow the wood to dry completely. The exact drying period will depend on the stain you are using. For instance, water-based stains dry sooner, while oil-based stains require several hours.
Put on the Second Layer of Stain
Examine the surface to see if you like the color or effect. Once satisfied, go ahead and skip to the final step.
If not, you can opt to apply another layer of wood stain. Follow the same procedure as the first coating. That means removing any excess stain color and letting the wood dry completely.
Apply a Top Coat
Finally, apply a clear top coat when you are happy with the final teak wood color. Doing so can lock in the stain and protect the surface.
Feel free to choose any clear finishes, such as lacquer, polyurethane, or varnish. Follow the application instructions on the product label to achieve the best results.
How Often Should You Stain Teak Wood?
It is necessary to re-apply teak stain to your outdoor furniture every two to five years. However, some stains can last as long as seven years when applied properly.
Nevertheless, stain teak wood regularly to enjoy its full benefits for several years.
What Are Different Teak Stain Colors?
You can choose from different wood stain colors for your teak wood furniture. These shades include the following.
- Arctic
- Black
- Cappuccino
- Clear
- Cherry
- Gray (light, dark, or regular)
- Honey
- Neutral
- Mahogany
- Navy blue
- Pearl
- Walnut (antique, dark, or regular)
- White
- Whiskey
What Is the Best Stain to Use for Teak Wood?
The best wood stain for teak furniture depends on your needs and preferences.
For instance, water-based stains produce a subtle sheen. They also dry quickly, which is suitable for those who want to use their furniture as soon as possible. The only downside is they can fade faster.
On the other hand, oil-based stains are highly durable. They offer better protection from the elements. However, oil finishes tend to dry longer.
Conclusion
So, going back to the question: can you stain teak wood? Yes!
You can apply wood stains to enhance the look of your furniture. You can also rely on these finishes to protect from various conditions and environments. Therefore, you can use your wood furniture for several years.
