Most material options you encounter when choosing garden, balcony, or patio furniture will crack, fade, or rust after a few seasons. Teak wood, however, naturally withstands the harshest outdoor conditions, proving why it has been used on ship decks for centuries. In this article, we explain what makes teak so special and how you can extend the life of your furniture.
What makes teak different?
The high content of naturally occurring silica and natural oils in teak wood cells makes the wood inherently resistant to water, moisture, and insects. This is natural protection achieved without the need for a synthetic coating or paint — meaning the protective layer does not wear off or peel over time, because it is part of the wood itself.
Our outdoor collections are produced using kiln-dried Grade-A teak; this process balances the wood's moisture content during production, minimizing the risk of warping or cracking over time.
Silver-grey patina: not a flaw, but character
If you leave your teak furniture outdoors without any maintenance, a silvery-grey tone will begin to form on the surface within a few months. This is the wood's natural reaction to UV light and is not a structural problem — many designers deliberately prefer this natural patina as it gives the furniture more character over time. The issue here is a matter of aesthetic preference: whether you want to preserve the original honey color or embrace the natural greying.
If you want to preserve the honey color
If you want to maintain the warm honey tone of teak from its first day, a few simple steps are sufficient:
- Teak oil twice a year: Natural teak oil applied in spring and autumn moisturizes the surface and slows down color fading.
- Regular washing: Monthly surface cleaning with a soft brush and warm soapy water prevents dust and dirt from embedding into the grain.
- Cover in winter: If not in use for extended periods, covering with a breathable furniture cover reduces moisture buildup (avoid completely airtight plastic covers — moisture gets trapped underneath).
If you let it grey naturally
You don't need to do anything. This is where teak's biggest advantage comes in: even if left unmaintained, it won't rot, it will just change color. Cleaning the surface once a year with a soft brush is enough to ensure an even and consistent grey patina forms.
Fabric detail: cushions and pillows
While the teak frame protects itself, 100% waterproof performance fabrics should be preferred for outdoor cushions and pillows. The fabric drying quickly in sudden rain and resisting mold is as important as the wood for longevity.
All seating sets, chairs, and tables in our outdoor collection are made with kiln-dried Grade-A teak; you can review material and care details on the product pages.
