Teak Furniture 101

Teak is a close-grained, dense, coarse hardwood. It is mostly known for growing in countries having tropical rainforests such as Malaysia, India, and Thailand. Since centuries, woodworkers have been using it to make high-quality furniture models. The high level of resinous oil makes teak naturally repellent to insects and resistant to the effects of moisture and dry weather. Because of the silica contained in it which gives it high density, teak is also resistant to water, warping, fungal decay, swelling, rotting, shrinking, and to several chemicals.



It can successfully withstand the potentially effecting elements of any weather and does not corrode or rust metals that come in contact with it. It is any day better than any other wood in terms of its enhanced levels of durability, stability, low maintenance, and even elegance. It is not surprising that teak is the most preferred choice for various furniture constructions.



Due to its virtually imperishable composition, teakwood is mainly used in various areas of shipbuilding and in the constructions of outdoor furniture. Teak furniture lasts out all weathers brilliantly and can be left untreated and untouched outdoors without any possibility of getting rotten. It hardly requires any maintenance and there is no need to treat or seal it regularly. The inherent perfections present in teak allow enhancing the uniqueness and durability of each furniture piece.



Initially, when teak furniture is purchased, it appears golden, bright, and polished because of its naturally present oils. Within the first week, the oil on the surface of the piece evaporates but the oil below its surface lasts till the life of the furniture, further enhancing the incomparable durability of this wood. After witnessing a couple of seasons, the teakwood furniture turns silvery-gray and remains the same without ever rotting, warping, splintering, or twisting. Teak furniture is smooth, knot-free, handsome, and you will never feel the need of replacing it.



Many teakwood furniture owners prefer to let their teakwood weather and age while it turns into a mellow gray tone. However, there are others who fancy the original color and retain it by applying coats of teak oil once every year. Though it is not necessary to follow this treatment for the protection of teakwood, the process anyway does not require much efforts and many believe that it further extends the life of the furniture. In any case, if you are planning to give your teak furniture some oiling, then do the oil applications before the teak color starts to fade. Moreover, make sure to always apply on clean surfaces or the trapped dirt in the furniture will cause the teakwood to turn black.



Today, the furniture market is driven by customers who have the knowledge and appreciation for the longevity superiority of teak furniture. Apart from its reputation for exceptional durability, teak furniture is also popular among consumers for its satin smooth touch and royal, warm color. A primary example of fine teak furniture is patio furniture; however, in addition to this, teak is also commonly used in the production of indoor tables, indoor chairs, executive office furniture, and outdoor decking.