How does teak wood weather?

Teak wood furniture, when exposed to the outdoors, will form a silver-gray patina. This process will take approximately nine months, depending on the amount of sunlight and rain exposure.

During the weathering process you may notice “checking” or small cracks that appear in the wood. This is perfectly natural, as wood expands and contracts slightly when left outdoors. Checking is cosmetic only and in no way affects the structural integrity of the furniture.

A lifting of the grain may occur on the top edges of the arms and legs. The grain will return to its original smooth finish after the initial weathering process. To aid this process, simply clean the furniture with a soft bristle brush or sponge.

Water spots or other discoloration may also occur during the weathering process. These will even out with time and with periodic cleaning, the furniture will achieve a uniform silver-gray.

How should I clean my teak furniture?

The only maintenance necessary for your furniture is periodic cleaning. First, hose down the furniture with fresh water. Avoid spraying the teak with a high pressure hose, as high pressure can erode the surface of the timber. Next, scrub the wet furniture using a soft bristle brush and a solution of 2/3 cup laundry detergent and 1/4 cup bleach in 1 gallon of warm water. When finished, rinse the entire piece with more fresh water to remove any remaining cleaning solution.

Do I need to bring my cushions indoors when it rains?

Teak has oil that occurs naturally in the wood. Expect some of this oil to bleed out following the first few rainfalls. In order to protect your cushions, bring them inside before the furniture gets wet. Stains from teak oil are not covered under warranty. Once the furniture has begun to form a silver-gray patina, it is no longer necessary to bring the cushions indoors.