Teak
patio furniture is made from the same hard wood that shipbuilders once
used to make large sailing vessels. Teak is native to southern and southeastern
Asia. It has very high oil content. This prevents the common problems
of rotting and insect infestation and other issues that afflict other
types of wood.
Teak is the perfect choice for patio furniture because its high oil
content, sturdiness, and weatherproof traits make it a durable wood.
If you choose teak for your outdoor furnishings, you need to decide
how you want the teak to age. If you prefer the silvery gray look of
naturally aged teak, then you won’t need to do anything except
occasionally clean your teak with soap and water. On the other hand,
if you prefer the shiny, warm medium brown tone of teak when it is new,
you will need to seal your teak with a sealant and care for it regularly.
The sealant should be applied about once a year and can be purchased
at most garden furniture retail establishments. See care instructions
accompanying your patio set for more details.
Additionally, it is always a good idea to store or cover your teak
patio furniture during harsh winters to prevent prolonged exposure to
extreme elements. The teak will remain sturdy if it is left out, but
it will not retain its new look. If you want to prevent the teak from
taking on an aged look, you should store it during the winter. It is
possible to restore aged teak, although it requires far more work than
simple preventative sealing and cleaning.