5 Reasons Why Teak is Good for Outdoor Furniture
Did you know that teak is an evergreen tropical hardwood that has been used for thousands of years? It has traditionally been used to build boats and houses, but it is now regarded as one of the best timbers for outdoor use. Besides, its quality has only improved over the years, using new sourcing techniques and materials.
While there are many different types of outdoor furniture, such as wicker, metal and plastic, many people prefer teak furniture due to its durability and the natural beauty of teak—its ‘golden brown’ look. Besides, teak wood weathers well regardless of climatic conditions and even time. And there are plenty more reasons why teak is good for outdoor furniture, from less shrinkage and surface splitting to being pest-resistant. Below you will find five key benefits of owning teak outdoor furniture:
1. Teak is a very durable wood that will last a very long time.
Teak is a popular hardwood known for its strength, sturdiness and durability no matter how hot, wet, or cold it gets. It has the ability to withstand exposure to the elements better than other hardwoods. The wood is dense and heavy, which makes it highly resistant to wear and tear caused by different weather conditions. It also doesn't crack or splinter easily, even when exposed to sunlight or extreme humidity. This means that teak really comes into its own in outdoor environments where it will face a lot of wear and tear from the elements over time.
2. It is naturally weather and water-resistant
In the past, teak was used for boat building due to its water-resistant properties. It is also a highly sought-after material native to South and South-East Asia, where the climate can be warm, wet or unpredictable. As a result, teak wood is naturally weather and water-resistant, which are crucial for any garden furniture, especially in the UK. Without these key qualities, outdoor furniture will deteriorate or decay over time, either through rotting, splitting or mould and mildew formation.
3. Teak holds its own natural oils
One of the biggest reasons why teak makes for highly durable and long-lasting furniture is because of its high oil content in the heart of the trunk. As a result, teak does not require oiling and painting, like many other hardwoods, since its natural oil can sometimes make it difficult for coatings and finishes to adhere to the wood. Besides, the high oil content of teak already provides significant protection against all-weather conditions as well as water damage and surface splitting. Teak wood is also resistant to insects, termites and pests, allowing you to leave your teak furniture outside all year regardless of the weather. Moreover, did you know that the natural oil extracted from teak is also used in herbal medicines?
4. Teak outdoor furniture is easy to maintain
Teak furniture doesn’t require as much care and attention as other types of furniture, and it is also very easy to maintain. It also has high shock resistance, which makes it ideal for outdoor furniture, particularly in high-traffic areas like patios, decks and porches. With proper care and maintenance, teak furniture is known to last for a very long time, even decades. So you won’t have to worry about replacing your teak furniture as often as other types of garden furniture made using softwood or natural materials.
To keep your teak looking its best, simply clean it with a sponge and soapy water every now and then. A teak protector or sealer can also be used to add an extra layer of protection and restore the teak to its original condition.
5. Teak can be recycled, reused and repurposed
Teak wood can be recycled and repurposed for different uses, making it an environmentally friendly alternative. All reused teak is classified as ‘reclaimed wood’, which originates from old-growth trees that have been harvested and used as furniture or in construction. Reclaimed teak, by method, is a sustainable way of sourcing teak wood. It supports sustainable forestry practices and helps to reduce the effects of deforestation on the environment.
Besides, there is no compromising on quality, as reclaimed teak furniture is known to be just as strong, beautiful and durable as new teak. The only difference is that the recycled teak furniture shows telltale signs of its past life through inconsistencies, knots, in-fills, and cracks on the surface. This results in a rich, interesting, and glorious piece of furniture, each with its own unique story to tell.
How long will teak outdoor furniture last?
Teak is a durable wood that has withstood the test of time. They can last up to 100 years, making them some of the most durable outdoor furniture available on the market. As such, teak outdoor furniture is a great investment for many homeowners and will last for many years to come, provided it is properly maintained and cared for.
While teak outdoor furniture is known to last for decades, like all furniture, it will eventually show signs of wear and tear over time. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can keep your teak furniture looking great. For example, you can regularly clean your furniture with soap and water or teak cleaner to remove dirt and grime buildup. You can also use a teak sealer to protect and maintain the natural colour of the teak for a longer time, giving you better peace of mind.
