Care and Maintenance GUIDELINES

 

TEAK WOOD

Teakwood is an excellent material for porches, decks, and outdoor patio furniture. It is one of the strongest and most durable hardwoods available, Because it is weather- and age-resistant, teak outdoor furniture naturally requires minimal maintenance. Over time, however, mildew can form and the teak finish may discolor, so maintaining teak furniture through regular cleanings and treatments is necessary to keep your teak looking its best.

THE NATURAL AGING AND GRAYING OF TEAK OUTDOOR FURNITURE

New pieces of teak wood furniture will be in a honey/brown color which is its natural state. They can often appear to be polished. The polished appearance comes from oil occurring naturally in the wood. The oil on the surface will evaporate after a few days outdoors. It is the oil below the surface that gives the wood its durability. Left to age naturally outside, teak outdoor furniture will turn a handsome silver-gray color. This process called "Patina" will take approximately 9 to 12 months, depending on the amount of ultraviolet light and the rain the teak is exposed to. This graying process in no way affects the integrity of the teak. Teak’s aged character suits any type of garden setting. It is popular among many because it is natural and virtually maintenance-free.

Teak is a natural material. As such, it may see fine cracks appear in the end grain of components and then disappear when atmospheric conditions change. Such fine cracks are normal, especially in heavier components like arms and legs. They will not affect the life or durability of your teak outdoor furniture.

 

RETAINING THE ORIGINAL COLOR OF YOUR TEAK OUTDOOR FURNITURE

If you want to preserve the honey/brown color of your teak outdoor furniture, a sealer is recommended. Teak sealers are usually solvent-based and of water-like viscosity, containing protection against mold, ultraviolet light and moisture. 

 

OILING YOUR TEAKWOOD OUTDOOR FURNITURE

What You Will Need

  • Sandpaper
  • Teak oil
  • Bristle brush
  • Clean lint-free cloth

 

Step 1: Clean your furniture thoroughly and let it dry.

Gently scrub your furniture with a mild cleaning solution – either a store-bought teak cleaner or a homemade solution. You can make your own by adding a small amount of dish detergent to a mixture of 1 cup bleach or white vinegar and 1 gal. of water solution. Use a soft plastic brush, as metal brushes can damage the wood’s surface. 

Step 2: Remove prior treatments

This will require sanding.

Step 3: Apply a first coat of teak oil

Use a natural bristle brush or lint-free cloth.

Step 4: Wipe off all excess oil.

Use a clean lint-free cloth.

Step 5: Let it dry completely

This can take two to four hours.

Step 6: Add more coats until the oil is no longer absorbed into the teak wood

Depending on the condition of your furniture, you may need 2 to 2 coats of oil.

Step 7: Repeat when your furniture dries out or grays

Usually, oil should be reapplied every 6 months. Before each application, your teak furniture should be thoroughly cleaned and allowed to dry completely.

 

RATTAN / WICKER

Wicker rattan furniture is made of durable natural rattan fiber strips that are tightly woven in the wicker style on Aluminium frames. Wicker rattan furniture is classic in appearance, lightweight, flexible, and comfortable. certain Wicker rattan materials fade very fast and loosen when exposed to very hot temperatures. Rehau fiber on the other hand is durable, resistant to UV and mildew, and can be used outdoors all year long.  

Care Tips: To clean rattan, fill a bowl with water and add a splash of soap. Dip a soft cloth/sponge into the bubbles, not the water, and wipe any stains clean. Rinse gently and allow to dry. Do not use a power hose as it is too harsh. 

 

Stainless steel

One of the most sturdy, hardy, and durable materials. Heavier and harder than aluminum, steel outdoor furniture resists dents and is resilient against high winds. The weight of steel furniture means it can be a bit difficult to move around. Plain steel rusts easily, so it's important to choose stainless steel # 304 or #316 or galvanized steel for your outdoor furniture.

Care Tips: If you are purchasing stainless steel furniture, choose furniture with a hairline finish that is very easy to maintain. 

Wash with mild soap, warm water, and a gentle cloth or sponge. If the stains are difficult to remove, use a hard brush such as Scotch Brite to clean them. Brush along the lines to form a new original sparkly finish.