If you own outdoor wood furniture, you know it is important to maintain it regularly. While designed to withstand harsh conditions, the wood can still crack or peel after constant exposure to elements. Teak oil is one of the best products to preserve outdoor teak furniture. But how do you use it?
To put teak oil on furniture, you must first clean and sand the wooden surface. Ensure it is free of dust and debris. Then, apply the teak oil to the wood evenly. Allow it to dry before putting on a second or third coat of oil.
This article will include a step-by-step guide to applying teak oil on wooden furniture. We will also teach you which tools or items to use when putting teak oil. Plus, we will answer some questions about its usage.
How To Apply Teak Oil On Teak Garden Furniture?
Applying teak oil to outdoor wood furniture involves several steps. Below, we will cover each one to help you accomplish the task.
Choose a Suitable Outdoor Space
Before anything else, know that teak oil is a chemical. It is not as toxic as other wood finishes, but it is important to work in a suitable area to prevent health issues. Choose an outdoor space where you can breathe and move around easily.
If you want to apply teak oil indoors, make sure the room is well-ventilated. Avoid working near heat sources, such as the kitchen or fire pits, because the oil is highly flammable.
Cover the Floor, Other Furniture Pieces, and Your Hands
Teak oil can stain the floor and other furniture pieces. To prevent tarnishing your prized possessions, place a drop sheet underneath the teak furniture you plan on working on. You can also cover the furniture pieces nearby. Use old towels, bedsheets, or newspapers to catch any dripping teak oil.
You must also protect your hands from the teak oil products. Wear gloves to avoid skin irritation.
Clean the Wooden Furniture
With the working area ready, the next thing to prepare is the wooden garden furniture itself.
Remove all kinds of debris on the wood surface. You can use a soft-bristled brush for dust or a lint-free cloth for dirt and food stains.
To target stubborn grime, you can wash the teak outdoor furniture with water or mild soap. You can also use a dedicated teak cleaner. Simply follow the application instructions on the label.
If you see scratches or other damages on the surface, consider sanding the teakwood furniture. Doing so removes deteriorated wood cells and reveals the smooth pores underneath. Sanding can also open the wood grain, helping the teak oil penetrate the outdoor furniture better.
Use coarse sandpaper (40 grit) to remove stubborn material quickly. Then, switch to fine sanding paper (120 grit) for a smooth finish. Sand following the wood grain to prevent further damage to your teak outdoor furniture.
Apply Teak Oil Carefully
After cleaning and sanding the teak garden furniture, it is time to apply teak oil.
Put a large amount of teak oil on the teak furniture. Depending on your preference, use a natural bristle brush or a lint-free cloth to spread the oil across the teak wood surface. The former helps you cover a large area in no time. Meanwhile, the cloth makes it easy to reach small corners and crevices.
Follow the natural grain of the teak wood to allow the oil to penetrate more effectively. You must also apply the wood oil as evenly as you can. Having a consistent coat of oil ensures full protection against outdoor conditions.
Then, wait 15 to 30 minutes or longer until the wood has soaked all the oil. Once the teak garden furniture looks dry, you can proceed to the next step.
Sand the Wood Surface
Consider sanding the teak wood furniture again before applying another coat of teak oil. But this time, use high-grit sandpaper (220 and above) to smoothen the surface. Then, use a damp rag to remove sanding dust.
Put the Second or Third Coat of Teak Oil
With the wooden surface dry and smooth, you can now put on another coat of oil. Follow the same steps above. Spread the teak oil using a brush or a cloth and work along the wood grain.
Allow the teak oil to dry in between coats. You must also wait for the oil to dry completely before using the outdoor teak furniture. It takes several hours or up to a few days until the teak oil is fully cured.
Re-apply the Teak Oil Regularly
The effects of teak oil fade over time, so you must re-apply it to protect and beautify your wooden furniture.
In general, you must put teak oil every six to twelve months. If the furniture is exposed to heavy rain, snow, or heat, you can re-apply teak oil after two or three months of the initial application.
What Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Teak Oil?
Teak oil contains varnishes and mineral spirits that can dry or irritate your skin. It is best to wear protective gloves to prevent adverse reactions to the oil. You might also want to use a mask to avoid breathing dust and fumes when cleaning teak wood.
Finally, carefully dispose of your waste. Avoid throwing rags soaked with oil in the trash can because they can combust. Wash the cloth with soap and water and let it dry before tossing it in the bin.
Where To Buy Teak Oil?
You can purchase teak oil at local hardware stores. You can also buy it and other wood finishing products in online stores, such as Amazon.
Is Teak Oil Permanent?
Teak oil is not permanent and fades over time. The oil eventually disappears because of exposure to sun, moisture, and harsh weather. That is why you must re-apply teak oil to retain the natural beauty and durability of teak wood.
Conclusion
Teak oil is one of the best products to maintain outdoor wooden furniture. It contains natural oils, spirits, and varnishes that protect the surface from damage.
Using teak oil is relatively easy. You must first clean and sand the wooden furniture to prepare it for the penetrating oil. Then, use a brush or a rag to apply the teak oil evenly. Allow the teak oil to dry completely before using the outdoor furniture.
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