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How to Properly Care for Teak Patio Furniture

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Teak is a great choice for outdoor furniture, as this wood is very dense and not likely to hold moisture, which causes wood to expand and shrink over time. While teak is typically more durable than other woods, you do still need to care for your teak patio furniture pieces properly. Note a few tips on how to do this.

Sanding

If you notice any type of discoloration or staining on the teak furniture, don't use a power washer to try to remove it. A power washer can go against the grain of the teak wood and cause damage and discoloration. Instead, apply some teak oil that has been diluted with mineral spirits to the stain and let it soak in. Next, use a fine grit sandpaper to very lightly sand away the area of the stain, moving in the direction of the wood grain. After sanding, apply some full-strength teak oil over the area, to restore the colour. You can then also apply teak sealer to help protect the wood and make it look like new.

Added gloss

A sealant is usually applied to any patio furniture before it's sold, and you may be advised to add a new coat every year or so, to help protect the wood. However, for even more shine and protection, consider an added gloss. This product is a type of sealant but, as the name implies, it gives the furniture a glossy finish. It also provides a thick barrier for the wood, protecting it from food, drinks that easily stain (such as wine, fruit juice, and children's drinks with food colouring), and bird droppings. If you you'll be eating and drinking outside on your patio while enjoying your teak furniture, add this extra layer of gloss as recommended by the furniture manufacturer.

Scratches

While teak is very dense, it can suffer some light scratches and especially from the claws and nails of pets and wildlife. These can be gently rubbed out with a kitchen scrub or abrasive pad. Add some sealant over that area after removing the scratches.

Debris around connectors

If you see that there is debris around the connectors of your teak furniture, such as where a leg attaches to a chair back, don't try to pull those pieces apart to remove the debris, as teak furniture can be difficult to reassemble. Take the furniture to a repair shop and have a professional detach the pieces for a deep cleaning and fresh coat of sealant and gloss.

For more information, contact companies like The Teak Place.


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