How To Finish Outdoor Teak Furniture

How to Finish Outdoor Teak Furniture

Teak furniture is a popular choice for outdoor use due to its durability and resistance to rot. However, teak will weather and turn a silvery-gray color if left unfinished. If you want to maintain the natural golden-brown color of your teak furniture, it is important to finish it with a protective sealant. There are several different types of finishes available, so it is important to choose one that is best suited for your needs.

Types of Finishes

The most common types of finishes for teak furniture are:

- Oil-based finishes: Oil-based finishes penetrate the wood and provide a natural-looking finish. They are easy to apply and maintain, but they need to be reapplied every few years.

- Water-based finishes: Water-based finishes form a film on the surface of the wood. They are more durable than oil-based finishes, but they can be more difficult to apply. Water-based finishes that are acrylic-based (acrylic latex) do not contain harsh chemicals that are found in oil-based finishes. These types of finishes can be cleaned up with soap and water.

- Penetrating sealers: Penetrating sealers soak into the wood and provide protection from moisture and UV rays. They are a good choice for furniture that is exposed to harsh weather conditions.

- Film-forming sealers: Film-forming sealers create a protective barrier on the surface of the wood. They are more durable than penetrating sealers but can be more difficult to apply. Some film-forming sealers are polyurethane while others are spar urethane. Spar urethane is specifically made for outdoor use and can resist UV rays and moisture.

How to Apply a Finish

Once you have chosen a finish, you can begin applying it to your teak furniture. Here are the steps:

1. Clean the furniture with a mild soap and water solution. Allow the furniture to dry completely.

2. Apply the finish to the furniture using a brush or cloth. Be sure to apply the finish evenly and in thin coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

3. Once you have applied the desired number of coats, allow the furniture to cure for the recommended amount of time.

4. Enjoy your refinished teak furniture!

Maintenance

To keep your teak furniture looking its best, it is important to clean it regularly and reapply the finish as needed. Here are some tips for maintaining your teak furniture:

- Clean your furniture with a mild soap and water solution every few months.

- Reapply the finish every few years, or more often if the furniture is exposed to harsh weather conditions.

- If your furniture starts to show signs of wear, you can sand it down and refinish it. Just follow the steps above to apply a finish to your furniture.