Benefits of Teak Wood
When it comes to outdoor furniture, teak wood is often hailed as the best of the best. That distinction doesn’t come lightly – teak has earned its place at the top. From its durability to its longevity, there are many benefits of selecting teak wood for your outdoor furniture.
DURABILITY
Exceptionally strong and durable, teak can last for generations in a wide variety of climates with zero maintenance. This is due to the high rubber and oil content of teak wood that leave it impervious to rain, weather and pests, making it virtually immune to rot. This also prevents teak from warping, twisting or splintering over time.
LOW MAINTENANCE
Teak requires no extra finishes or treatments to last for generations. Teak furniture begins with a warm, golden color, eventually fading to a silvery gray patina as it is left outdoors over time. The amount of time it takes to weather varies based on the amount of sun exposure and the type of environment in which the furniture is left. To remove moss, dirt and surface stains, an occasional wash with soapy water and a soft nylon brush is all you need. And, no matter how old, teak can be cleaned to bring back its golden color. In addition, there is a wide range of teak care and enhancement products, from finishes to sealers, to help get your furniture exactly how you want it.
SELF-REGULATING
Teak wood regulates its own temperature, allowing it to stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This prevents common issues with other materials such as metal, which can become very hot in the warmer months and icy cold in the winter.
SUSTAINABLE
Teak is a renewable, eco-friendly building material. It can be grown on government-managed, sustainable plantation forests in countries such as Indonesia and Belize. For every tree felled, more than one is planted to replace it, ensuring that teak will be available for future generations to come. Learn about our sustainability efforts in our Ecological Statement.
QUALITY
While teak is a very durable, highly coveted wood, it is important to note that not all teak is created equal. There are different grades ranging from A to C. Heartwood, often referred to as Grade A teak, comes from the center of the tree, which contains the highest concentration of oils. This is key in its resistance to outdoor elements. This is the grade of teak in which you want to invest. You can read about the different types of teak in Our Quality Difference.
HISTORY
Teak furniture has a long history that begins in England, where teak wood was used to construct ship hulls and sailing decks. As these ships and decks fell out of use, the wood was salvaged to create teak benches, which were built with traditional mortise and tenon joinery. As teak benches grew in popularity, more outdoor furniture began to be built with teak, creating a rich tradition of teak garden furniture, many of which were located on prestigious estates. Many traditional benches, such as the Lutyens bench, are still in use today. Celebrate the long, established history of teak garden furniture by adding teak to your home, garden or business.
