For rain, wind, and sun to survive, garden furniture must be tough - and no material is as valuable for its healthy beauty and legendary durability as teak. Maintenance is designed to last for decades without maintenance and is more of a matter of personal preference than necessity.
While some people prefer the new golden color of teak, others prefer the distinct silver-gray that teak gets when weathered. Regardless of your preferences, just a few steps will ensure that your teak furniture will stay in tip-top shape for decades.
Here are some tips from Jeremy Smith, President of Wood Classics, an American teak furniture manufacturer: First of all, make sure you have the highest quality product available.
Pay attention to the quality of wood and construction techniques used in the furniture as this can affect the longevity of the furniture. When looking at teak products, make sure that the product is really teak, not "teak" or "as good as teak".
Pay attention to the quality of the teak used. European Quality First (FEQ) is the best grade without knots, cracks, or holes. If you prefer the natural look of weathered teak, there is almost no maintenance. If your furniture is left outside, you should clean mold, juices, and pollen annually with Olympic® Deck Wash.
If you prefer the true, saturated copper color of teak, there are steps you can take to achieve that golden color. After you wash the teak thoroughly, you can treat it with special teak cleaners and restoration products.