how to care for outdoor teak furniture

How to CareFor TeakGina SamarottoSamarotto Design Group

Attributes of Teak

Teak outdoor furniture can last decades

Intrinsic oils and resins help maintain strength even as the teak ages

Maintenance is simple

Teak has an attractive subtle sheen from naturally occurring oils

How to Care For Teak | Gina Samarotto | Samarotto Design Group2

What happens with age ?

Over time, the surface can take on a distinguished grey color

Many find the teak aging process attractive, though the original look can be preserved.


Cleaning

Teak outdoor furniture requires periodic cleaning

Removal of dirt, debris, moss or mildews

Depending upon what the teak has been exposed to, this can be a few minutes and a little soapy water, or require a brush and a teak cleaner.


How to clean

Choose a dry day

Move the furniture under shade. This prevents quick drying of soapy solution

Gently brush with soap and water until clean

For stubborn stains – use a quality teak cleaning product

Rinse with clear water after you finish and dry


To Oil or Not to Oil

It all depends upon your color and design goals

With significant exposure to the weather, teak does gain what many consider a “distinguished” gray color.

To maintain teak’s original rich woody color a periodic coating of teak oil is the answer


How to sand

Be prepared: proper clothing, eyewear, and ventilation

Clean and sand the wood in phases starting with a 120-grit and ending with a 220-grit sandpaper

Work in the direction of the grain

Work slowly and gently – orbital sanders may be okay for larger areas in the first phase, but are too aggressive for fine sanding

Remove dust with soft cloth How to Care For Teak | Gina Samarotto | Samarotto Design Group7

How to apply oil… cont.

Start with a variety of different sized clean natural bristle brushes

Start from the top and work downwards

Wipe any spills or drips immediately

Ensure a thin, even application

Let it dry completely

Minimal buffing can bring out a rich glow


Sealing Teak Furniture

Same rules apply: proper clothing, eyewear, and ventilation.

Do not attempt to seal a piece that has been previously oiled

Sealing is done in the same manner as oiling

Clean the piece thoroughly

Apply sealer using clean natural bristle paint brushes


About Sealers

Sealers come in various color tones the most popular is soft honey hue

Soft honey hue sealer resembles the look of natural wood

Sealer forms a physical barrier and prevents greying for several seasons



For more teak care information see: http://bit.ly/1cqVvrA, http://bit.ly/1ndCxtdhttp://bit.ly/1lqgTND

how to care for outdoor teak furniture

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