Teak is the best wood for use in outdoor furniture because of the high oil and rubber content in the wood. When raw teak wood is exposed to the elements it will begin to grey or silver over time. The silver-grey patina is actually caused by oxidization and loss of natural oils in the wood.
Teak is a natural product which has natural characteristics. Just as no two hand-made or hand touched products are exactly alike; no two teak wood slats are exactly alike. Each component is cut at different times from different areas of aged trees. Every piece of furniture has its own character and structure. Small inlays can be used to fill up minor existing imperfections and give the product a naturally aged look. Each and every piece is constructed and finished by hand to ensure a high standard of outdoor furniture.
Within the first two weeks your furniture will acclimate to its new location outside. After the wood has been exposed to moisture, the surface grain may rise slightly. You may even notice a few small hairline cracks, called “checking”. Nearly all teak, treated with teak oil, will weather in 4-8 weeks.
Each component and product may respond differently to environmental conditions causing one piece to darken or grey more than another. Regularly cleaning teak and/or applying a sealer or protector will help to maintain a consistent appearance of the teak wood product. Small fissures may open in the end grain, known as checking, this is normal, and it will not affect the serviceability of your furniture. These cosmetic issues do not affect the structure and durability of the product.
Black spots on the product after being exposed to the outdoor environment are a result of humidity build up in the wood and are natural mould spores. These spots can be cleaned and should not be considered a defect.
A natural process of teak involves oil moving to the surface of teak, this teak oil can cause leaching or staining. This can be especially evident if the furniture pieces are experiencing exposure to the weather elements, in particular rain. You can clean any teak oil stains with a 100% Eucalyptus oil (always test in an inconspicuous area first).
You can oil or seal your teak to reduce the effect of the weather elements turning your teak grey. These products should always be applied to clean teak. See below for a selection of products (be aware that any treatment you do may alter the colour).
Always apply products to a cloth and then to your furniture item. After you have oiled or sealed your teak furniture, do not put your cushions back onto your items for at least 24 hours, to reduce the possibility of the teak oil transferring to the fabric.
How many times should you oil your teak to maintain the original honey colour:
Undercover – Every 6 months (No weather elements)
Partial exposure to weather elements – Every 3 months (Morning or Afternoon sun)
Full exposure to weather elements – Every 1 to 2 months
The UV fabric on the cushion is fade, water and chlorine resistant and specifically designed for outdoor use. The fabric comes with a 2-year warranty against fading.
Our cushions are crafted to provide years of comfort and performance in a variety of climates and conditions. However, after extended or heavy rain, some water may penetrate into the inner foam core. If your cushions get wet, stand them on end, with the open zipper or seam side down, to help drain the water and speed the drying process. Be sure the cushions’ foam core has completely dried before using.
*The above information is recommendations only and it is important to keep an eye on your teak furniture and judge accordingly as to what you are required to do to clean/maintain your outdoor furniture.
* 1 Year Structural Warranty offered on all teak furniture items * 3 Year Warranty on ‘UV All Weather Wicker’ * 2 Year Fabric Warranty *
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