furniture

Is teak your patio furniture style? Obtained from a hardwood tree from Southeast Asia's highlands, teak wood natural properties (it has high oil content) make it a resilient option for furniture. It does not rot easily when exposed to extreme weather conditions. Moreover, teak wood oil prevents degradation by termites and other wood-chomping insects.

Many style-savvy individuals swear by teak garden furniture because it is not only sturdy but beautiful, too - it can look great in many contemporary homes. Teak outdoor furnishings can enhance or look stunning in most gardens or patios. Quality outdoor teak furniture may be on the pricey side, but may last you a lifetime. Whether you opt for a long single bench or a teak duo consisting of two bench chairs and coffee table that can look great in your patio or balcony, teak outdoor furniture has an allure all its own. What's more, it requires minimal cleaning and maintenance.

Teak furniture has a way of growing old gracefully. It turns into a rich silver-gray patina when left outdoors over a certain period of time. If untreated, it can turn into a dark-gray and greenish appearance. Rest assured that the fading color is not an indication of your teak furniture's sturdiness or longevity. The wood will slowly transform into a darker shade of brown when left indoors.

Style-savvy folks who prefer its golden honey hue as against distinctive gray can make their teak furniture look good as new by sanding the teak furniture regularly (every quarter). It can benefit from an annual scrub to remove accumulated dirt. All that you need really are warm soapy water (use a mild detergent) and a soft brush. If there are grease spots, gentle scrubbing motion with a degrease agent, to be rinsed off with water, should do the trick. Some teak oil may also slow down the color transformation. Apply the oil using a clean brush, working from the top going down. Have at hand a clean cotton rag to remove excess oil.

There's no need to be concerned about sitting on your teak furniture after it has been exposed to the sun's scorching heat for some time, because it is not heat-absorbent.

Other reminders to care for teak furniture and protect the wood's longevity include making sure that it does not stay for a prolonged period in puddles of water. Teak outdoor furniture may also be covered and protected from harsh weather conditions. Choose a vinyl cover or waterproof canvas to shield your teak outdoor furnishings. The cover will also minimize the possibility of things like bird droppings or tree sap from staining and seeping into the wood. As for stubborn stains created by drinks accidentally spilled on the teak outdoor furniture, a weak bleach and water solution mixed with dish washing detergent may be used.

Definition of no-nos in cleaning your teak furniture pieces are high pressure hoses, and steel wool/steel wire brushes. You would not want any residue left in the grain to discolor the wood. People who are considering to investing on teak outdoor furniture as a charming addition to their homes are bound to discover that with a little tender loving care, it can repay its owners by exuding timeless charm and beauty.

About the Author:
Richard Dinae is an architect, providing information and directories about home improvement, please visit Teak Outdoor Furniture