As a homeowner, you most likely understand the need for an outdoor living space. Porches, decks, and patios increase space for entertaining and relaxing outdoors, but they also add appeal and tremendous value to your home. Considering that an outdoor living space offers an estimated 90.3 percent return if you sell, it can be a great investment. Of course, furnishing with comfortable seating and tables is key to maximizing your outdoor living space. Using this guide on teak furniture, you will understand the benefits of this durable, attractive wood for outdoor spaces and learn the best techniques for its cleaning and maintenance.

Benefits of Teak

With all the different options in outdoor furniture available, choosing one type can be overwhelming. However, teak wood offers amazing benefits that are perfectly suited to sitting and dining on the deck or lounging by the pool. Here are a few benefits of this teak wood furniture:

• Natural Appeal—Wrought iron offers an elegant design, but it may be a bit too formal for your outdoor space. Teak benches, dining tables, and chairs offer a comfortable feel that complements your outdoor space naturally.
• Durable—Teak wood repels water, making it resistant to warping or decay. While surprising to hear, this durable wood is also resistant to termites.
• Low Maintenance—Oak wood, wicker, or wrought iron patio furniture can be difficult to maintain, but teak requires very little cleaning and maintenance to protect its beauty and strength.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Your teak furniture will offer a honey brown finish at first, but this color will change to a silvery grey within a few months. This natural change of color stems from weathering, which you may actually find appealing.

If you prefer the honey brown finish, a coat of sealant to the wood finish will slow down the weathering process. Visit your local home improvement store to purchase sealant specifically designed for teak wood. Rinse the furniture using your garden hose before washing with the following solution:

• 2 gallons of warm water
• ¼ cup of liquid dish soap

Use your garden hose to rinse away leftover soap and allow the teak to dry. After drying overnight in a covered area, apply the sealant directly to the wood surface using a paint sponge. Be sure to apply the sealant going with the grain of the teak wood.

Sealing your teak furniture slows down the weathering process, protecting its appeal. In addition, sealing the teak protects the wood from moisture, rot, and mold growth.

Teak wood is a great option for your outdoor living spaces, but proper care is essential. By choosing and maintaining your teak furniture, you will enjoy relaxing and entertaining using your outdoor furniture for many years to come.