Restoring Teak Outdoor Furniture

Teak is one of the widely used wood for patio furniture for good reasons. First is that it is one of the most durable and stable hardwoods. The wood naturally has oil which makes it more resistant to a few outdoor elements. These characteristics allow you to enjoy your outdoor furniture for many years.

Some information would help you know if it is your preference to restore your teak furniture. Be warned that some toxic chemicals will be involved in this job like teak oil and stain. These will have effect to your teak pieces.

The natural oil of the teak wood has important functions. First, this is what makes a new furniture appear smooth and in vibrant natural color. Second is that the oil gives the wood strength and durability to last long in an outdoor situation. A quality teak patio furniture can be left in your backyard, patio, or deck all year long with less maintenance.

After several months, a teak furniture will naturally transform into silver gray. The rate at which the appearance transforms depends on the intensity and frequency of the sun exposure and rain. The tiny cracks on the surface will gradually appear, the grain will roughen until the surface becomes silver-gray.

In the surface, it does not look bad at all. From the inside, it is still really in great shape. But once artificial chemicals are introduced, it will forever change the composition of the wood. The change is somehow not for the better. Once treated with artificial chemicals, it will always require maintenance of the same.

Now, if you really need to restore your patio for good, then here is the way.

Clean
Cleaning alone is a good start. The removal of dirt and oxidation helps reveal the true color of the teak. All you need is a brush, a mild detergent soap, and a warm water.

Teak Oil
Applying teak oil is the best solution for restoring an outdoor teak furniture. Do this after the wood furniture is thoroughly cleaned and dried.

Before applying teak oil, you may need to sand to even the surface and remove hard stains.

Teak oil is toxic, so be sure to wear face mask. Make sure you are in a well ventilated area when applying the stain. Using a paint brush, apply a thin and even coat first, then let it dry for an hour. Do more coats until the original teak color is achieved or until you get the desired darkness. However, you should allow it to dry for about an hour before applying the next coat and always apply thinly for consistent and even coating.
You will need to seal in the oil after you have restored the teak to its original look. A few coats of polyurethane sealer will add protection to the new look and from surface damage.