Teak has always been a popular choice for outdoor furniture because of its buttery gold hue and long-lasting nature. Thanks to the high quantity of naturally occuring rubber and oils in take furniture, it’s practically waterproofed.

In spite of the fact that teak is ideal for outdoor use, you should still go into the purchasing process prepared with the necessary knowledge. Here’s a few things you should know.

1. The cost

Due to the high cost of teak furniture, it should only be used in locations that will be occupied for many years to come. Because of this, if you frequently relocate or are a person who likes to continuously redecorate, this may not be the greatest solution for you.

Demand for teak furniture has fuelled deforestation in South and Southeast Asia, which has resulted in the exploitation of Indigenous Peoples and the destruction of ecosystems. However, not every teak furniture piece has a terrible karma attached to it. Teak grown on plantations that practise sustainable harvesting is more readily available these days.

Choosing FSC-certified teak for your furniture is a terrific way to minimise your impact on the environment. It is a sign that the plantation’s practises meet a stringent set of standards established by the Forest Stewardship Council, including respecting indigenous peoples and protecting or repairing the ecosystem.

2. Naturally sealed

Teak wood naturally ages to a silvery grey hue when left out in the environment for long periods of time. There is no need to do anything to achieve this look; all you have to do is sit back and enjoy your teak furnishings.

In order to get the same colour for all your teak furniture, buy all of your unfinished pieces at the same time.

Buy pre-weathered teak if you prefer a silvery appearance. Because the hue you begin with will remain unchanged, it is easier to select fabrics and accent pieces.

A sealant can help slow down the weathering process and keep your furniture appearing golden brown. Ask your vendor about maintenance before you buy sealants, because they might wear down over time.

3. Oiling teak

Teak wood can be preserved by applying oil to keep its natural hue. Cons: Oiling might encourage the growth of mould and fungus. The location of the furniture should be taken into consideration when selecting whether or not to oil the furniture. An enclosed or covered area that receives regular shade from the sun will keep the colour from fading as soon. Teak furniture in the home often does not deteriorate over time.

While teak will weather if exposed to direct sunlight, this is not the case if it is placed in the shade.

For best results if you decide to oil your furniture pieces, you’ll need to reapply oil every few months or so. Because not all oils are made equal, be sure to get product recommendations from the vendor.

4. Cleaning

Cleaning teak furniture once a year is necessary to eliminate stains, dust and filth. With a diluted home cleaner and a bristle brush, you can accomplish this yourself.  The retailer you buy it from should be able to tell you which detergent to use based on the finish you choose.

At some point in time, someone will spill red wine or salad dressing over your furniture. Prepare to use a teak cleaner to remove the stain in those circumstances. Mild sanding may be required in extreme circumstances, as well as in the event of a bad scratch. However, before attempting to remove the spot, make sure to check with the product’s creator.