Teak has natural oils that protect it from various conditions and elements. So, you may ask yourself: should I still protect teak outdoor furniture? If yes, how? Find out the answers below!
Did you know that teak furniture is resistant to water, UV light, and weathering? It has a high concentration of natural oils and a tight grain, aka low level of gaps. These protect the surface from rain, wind, snow, and other harsh outdoor elements.
However, teak outdoor furniture is still susceptible to wear and tear. So despite its natural protective qualities, it still requires regular maintenance and protection.
Below, I share some tips on how to protect teak outdoor furniture. I also list some mistakes to avoid when maintaining your investment.
But first, I will explain the natural properties of teak to help you understand the need to protect it.
What Is Teak?
Teak is a tropical hardwood that grows in Asia and Central America.
Pure teak wood features abundant natural oils that resist water and UV rays. It also has a few gaps in the wood, which help prevent twisting and warping.
Additionally, teak is highly durable. It has a Janka hardness rating between 1,070 and 3,000 lbf (pound-force). That means this hardwood can withstand cracks, scratches, and weathering.
Furthermore, teak has a distinct rich honey or golden brown shade. It is an attractive choice for both interior and exterior design.
However, this beautiful color can eventually turn into a silver-gray patina. The reason is constant exposure to sun, rain, and humidity.
Teak also ages, like any other hardwood. Therefore, its natural protective oils can deplete over time.
Fortunately, you can prolong the teak’s durability and lifespan in two effective ways. These include cleaning and protecting the wooden surface.
How To Clean Teak Outdoor Furniture?
Outdoor teak furniture is constantly exposed to rain, wind, mildew, and even animal droppings. These elements can eventually damage the wood surface. But with proper care, your outdoor furniture can retain its durability for years to come.
Here are some tips to keep your teak furniture clean.
Wet the Surface
Ensure your teak furniture is entirely wet before cleaning.
You can use a garden hose for this step. Soak the entire wooden surface to prepare it for the cleaning solutions and sealants.
Washing the furniture can also remove accumulated dirt and dust on the surface.
Use a Cleaning Solution
Create a cleaning solution to target more stubborn debris on your wooden furniture.
Mix water and mild dishwashing or liquid soap in a bottle. You can also use an all-purpose cleaner.
Next, get a clean sponge or microfiber cloth. Then, squeeze a small amount of the soapy mixture onto it.
Now, it is time to get cleaning. Start wiping the bottom of the teak furniture to remove dust. Work your way to the top while ensuring to cover every inch of the wood. Doing so prevents leaving unwanted stains or smudges on the surface.
Rinse with Water and Repeat
After removing debris, proceed to rinse off the cleaning solution on your teak furniture. Do not leave any suds or residue because it can result in grime and mildew buildup.
You can clean small wood surfaces with a damp, clean cloth. Wet the fabric occasionally to remove the soapy water.
However, use a garden hose to rinse large teak pieces, such as wooden chairs and tables. It will help you do the task quicker.
You might notice your outdoor teak furniture becoming lighter during the washing process. Do not worry, though, because it will return to its original shade once dry.
Repeat the steps above as needed to clean your teak furniture.
How to Protect Teak Outdoor Furniture?
Washing your teak furniture is just one way to protect its wood grain. It does not slow the weathering process that turns teak into gray over time.
You may find this silver patina attractive. If that is the case, it is not necessary to maintain outdoor teak furniture. A simple cleaning with soapy water is more than enough.
However, those who want to retain the golden-brown shade must regularly take care of teak.
Consider the following methods to protect your outdoor teak.
Clean Teak Furniture Regularly
Most teak pieces require little to no maintenance. After all, natural teak is resistant to moisture, sunlight, and other weather elements.
That said, teak outdoor furniture still needs occasional cleaning. Doing so can prevent dust and dirt from accumulating, which might lead to permanent stains and scratches.
Fortunately, teak hardwood is very easy to clean. Try using a teak cleaner for tough jobs, but a quick washing with water or diluted dishwashing soap is sufficient in most cases. You can use a soft brush or lint-free cloth for more stubborn debris.
Store Away From Direct Sunlight or Rain
Although teak can withstand sunlight and moisture, furniture pieces are still susceptible to wear and tear. They also tend to age faster when under the sun or become wet. The result is a faded and silver-gray finish.
Therefore, I recommend placing your outdoor teak furniture away from direct sunlight or rain. It is not necessary to bring the teak pieces inside your home, especially if they are for patio use. Instead, you can opt to put it in an area with minimal sunshade. Or invest in an outdoor shed to protect teak outdoor furniture from sunlight during the winter.
Apply Teak Sealer or Protector
If you cannot avoid sunlight or rain, it is best to apply a sealant on your outdoor teak furniture.
A teak sealer can protect your teak outdoor furniture from harsh conditions and elements. It can also maintain the golden brown teak finish. It can slow the aging or graying process of your wooden furniture.
Simply pour a small amount of the teak sealer or protector on a lint-free cloth. Next, apply the product to an inconspicuous area to test it out. The last thing you want is to stain the wood surface with a color you do not prefer. Thus, it is recommended to do a brief examination first.
After ensuring the product is the right color or formula, you can apply it to the rest of the furniture. Wipe the teak sealer on the surface in the direction of the wood’s grain for better absorption.
Then, wait for several minutes to allow the product to settle. Once it does, wipe off the excess teak sealant and apply one more coat, following the same steps as the first layer.
Consider Wood Oils
Another option for protecting your teak furniture is to oil the wood surface.
Wood oils, such as linseed oil, tung oil, or Danish oil, can help seal in the natural lubricants on your teak furniture. They also offer a deep-penetrating finish for wood surfaces to ensure nourishment within. These products are suitable for weathered teak furniture that may have dried out from sun exposure.
Furthermore, wood oils can provide a natural, deeper color to the wood. They can ultimately enhance the finish of your teak furniture. The result is a beautiful and fresh-looking furniture piece.
I reviewed the best teak oils for a natural finish. If you’re interested in how teak oil compares to other types of wood oils for finish and protection, read my articles on teak oil vs tung oil or danish oil.
However, each type of wood oil varies in terms of application. Refer to the directions of the manufacturer when applying these lubricants for the best results.
What Are Some Mistakes to Avoid When Protecting Teak Furniture?
Maintaining and protecting your teak furniture seems straightforward enough. However, many homeowners still commit some mistakes which negatively affect the hardwood.
Below are some errors to avoid to ensure your teak outdoor furniture’s longevity.
Harsh Cleaning Products
It is essential to know which cleaning materials are recommended and not recommended if you want to maintain your teak furniture.
Teak might be among the most durable hardwoods today, but it is sensitive to harsh chemical cleaners.
Avoid using bleach as much as possible. It can strip off the teak’s natural oils. It can also result in a lighter or faded appearance, with little to no chance of restoring the original shade.
Power Washer
It might be tempting to use a power washer to clean and protect your wood furniture. However, pressure washing can damage the wood grain. It can leave permanent bumps and pits on the surface.
So, avoid spraying high-pressure water when washing teak wood to prevent irreversible damage.
Can You Restore Old Teak Wood Furniture?
As previously mentioned, teak wood can eventually fade into a silver-gray patina. Some homeowners prefer this shade to match their existing decor, but others find it unattractive.
If you are the latter, you can easily restore the original honey or rich brown color of the hardwood. Follow the easy steps below.
First, use fine-grit sandpaper to remove the outer layer of the wood. Proceed to sand away until the surface is smooth and the golden brown color underneath emerges.
The next step involves cleaning the wood furniture thoroughly. Use a dedicated teak cleaner or a DIY soap solution to wash the surface. Then, apply it with a lint-free cloth or a soft brush.
Finally, do not forget to rinse off any soapy residue with a garden hose. Leave the furniture for several hours to dry naturally. Read more about how to restore teak furniture.
How Long Can Teak Furniture Survive Outside?
Teak is highly resistant to the elements. It can last for around two decades and longer when properly taken care of.
Therefore, it is perfectly fine to leave your teak furniture outside all year long, including the winter season. However, you might want to cover it with breathable material to protect the hardwood from extreme cold.
Meanwhile, you may need to clean the teak pieces regularly in the summer and spring. The reason is dirt and dust can easily collect on the surface. When left alone, these particles can lead to rot and permanent stains.
Conclusion
Outdoor teak furniture is an excellent investment for your garden or patio. It has a long lifespan and an attractive finish that requires little to no maintenance.
Despite its durable construction, teak is still vulnerable to damage and fading. Thus, it is essential to clean the wood surface regularly. It is also best to apply teak sealers and follow precautions to protect teak furniture for a long time.
