Teak is a dense, close-grained tropical hardwood with a beautiful golden brown color when it is new. It contains high oil content that allows it to be naturally resistant to moisture, repellent to insects, and impervious to the drying effects of weather. It will not corrode metals it comes in contact with, and it can withstand the elements of all seasons. Its beauty increases with its age. These characteristics have made teak the ultimate wood of choice for patio furniture. For durability, elegance, stability and low maintenance, teak patio furniture sets the standard.

Recently, patio furniture makers have turned to other hardwood species with similar traits as teak. Species such as Jokoba (Brazilian Cherry), Shorea (High-Density Eucalyptus), and Acacia have become increasingly popular varieties. At UniqueTeakFurniture.com, our roots are with Teak, but we've expanded our inventory to include these other species to our customers as well. These care instructions apply to all the wood varieties sold on our website. Click here for specific instructions for maintaining Brazilian Cherry.

Due to it's high oil content, teak furniture will appear polished when it is first assembled. Although this surface oil with evaporate after a few days outdoors, it's the oil below the surface that gives teak its durability. If left untreated outdoors, teak patio furniture gradually changes color from the honey color of new teak to a silver-gray patina which distinguishes finely aged, outdoor teak. If left untreated outdoors, this process takes roughly 9 months, dependent on the elements.

Teak patio furniture will maintain structural integrity, durability, and weather resistance no matter how it is maintained. However, one must decide between maintaining a brand-new, golden hue, or allowing the furniture to mature to a weathered, silver-gray.

For those customers that prefer the traditional, weathered look of matured teak furniture, only periodic cleaning is required. Wash your teak furniture frames with a mixture of mild detergent and water, using a soft-bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth to clean. If you need a stronger cleaner, you can use a mixture of 3 parts mild detergent to 1 part bleach and water. This will remove dirt and dust, and will allow the furniture to continue weathering naturally. Although strong water pressure can help with this process, pressure-washing is not recommended; less that 1200 psi is sufficient.

Over time the wood will become rough in texture and the natural oils will be depleted, causing cracks along the grain. These small cracks, known as "checking", may appear on the top edges of the legs and arms of your furniture. This is entirely natural as the wood expands and contracts slightly when outdoors. The grain will return to a smooth state after initial weathering and is not to be considered a concern or defect.

For those customers that prefer teak's golden honey finish, understand that considerably more maintenance is required. A thorough application of teak oil, linseed oil, or teak brightener will allow the furniture to maintain its golden finish, usually every 3 months to a year, dependent on weather conditions. Consistent application of teak oil, linseed oil, or teak brightener will prevent the graying indicative of weathered teak. Before each application, clean the furniture as described above, and then apply the oil or brightener with a soft brush, sponge, or soft cloth. Click here for teak maintenance products.

Fortunately, it is possible to restore weathered teak to it's original color. A light sanding, combined with a fresh application of teak oil or teak brightener, will restore weathered teak to it's original golden hue.

Some people want to stain or paint their teak furniture. Typically manufacturers frown upon this, as the natural oil occurring in the teak prevents the paint or stain to properly adhere to the wood. In addition, staining or painting is permanent - there is no way to restore the original teak finish once its been stained or painted.

Teak furniture may be left outside all year round. Snow and freezing temperatures will not harm the wood. If you prefer to store your furniture, we recommend doing so in a dry, unheated garage or garden shed. Using furniture covers will prevent weathering; however, make sure these covers are well ventilated as to not promote mildew growth.

If you have additional question, please contact our Customer Service Experts at (800)985-9495.