Found in tropical areas, like Burma, India and Thailand, teak is a natural, dense and oily wood. Its own oils guard against wet and cold weather, thwarting water from harming the wood. What does this mean? Teak can be left, untreated, in the cold, heat, rain and wind without sustaining any damage.
If storing teak indoors for a lengthy period of time, make sure to do so in an unheated, an arid garage or shed. You do not want mold and mildew to grow on your teak benches. And remember, it is not necessary to put teak away for the cold winter months.
To (Teak) Oil or Not?
No; that is the consensus of nearly all manufacturers of teak furnishings. The truth is the wood’s natural oil is ample enough to safeguard it from ruin. “Teak” oil marketed to care for benches and other outdoor furniture is nothing like the oils found in nature. In fact, it is made up mostly of linseed oil and cleaners. The immediate glow after application vanishes quickly and will do more harm than good.
Aside from diminishing teak’s natural oils, using a synthetic oil nurtures moisture and generates the ideal atmosphere for fungus and mildew to thrive. In some instances, black spots appear on teak after applying oil.
What to Know About Teak Sealer?
Sealer is a water-based product that develops a barrier to prevent the natural oils from vaporizing and dissolving on the surface. It will not harm the natural oil found in teak. If choosing this option to care for teak, apply once a year. This will slow down the natural lightening from the golden-honey color to a light gray patina.
Since sealing teak isn’t necessary to care for the wood during the cold winter months, if you decide to stop applying the wood will begin to age naturally.
Never apply sealer to teak that is dirty, damp, or that has already begun to age. This will turn the wood black.
Cleaning Teak
Some manufacturer’s offer a cleaning solvent for their products. Consult them about the best way to care for your teak bench. Generally, routine cleaning with dish soap and a soft sponge is the recommended way to wipe down teak benches. Rinse with water and towel dry.
What not to use on teak
1. Do not use varnish as it may cause the teak to fragment.
2. Do not use all-purpose wood cleaners.
3. Do not pressure wash teak benches. It will discolor the wood and damage it; causing it to disintegrate and become abrasive.
4. Do not use steel wool or brass wool on teak. These brushes are too rough. A plain kitchen sponge will do.
Where to go
Memorial Benches UK has been producing solid teak commercial, commemorative, garden, memorial and pet benches for more than a decade for the general public as well as councils, housing associations, parks, churches, schools and retirement communities. There are no hidden engraving costs since we have a CNC wood engraver onsite. We also do plaque inscription and carved image services; we can accommodate most ideas.
Contact us today about these services as well as our bench cushions and breathable covers to keep your teak bench looking brand new without any effort. We use only teak rich in rubber and silica so we do not apply a finish to our benches. What you get is a fine sanded teak bench with a five-year guarantee and memories that will last a lifetime.