Cures for Teakwood Finishes

Cleaning

• Exposure to rain, dust and body oils can mar the look of outdoor teakwood. Because the wood grain is so dense, most stains and dirt wash right off with warm water and a mild soap. A stiff nylon brush helps scrub away dried-on food spills. A quick spray-down with the garden hose is sufficient for rinsing away loose dirt and debris. The high oil and resin content in teakwood act as a raincoat, protecting the tropical wood from moisture damage.

Surface Sanding

• Occasional sanding with 320-microgrit sanding paper, after a thorough washing and drying, will remove just the grayed surface and reveal the warm honey tone of the natural wood once again. The sanding strips away the oxidized top layer, but take care not to use coarse sandpaper, and sand only in the direction of the wood grain to prevent cross-sanding marks.

  Because 320-microgrit is very fine, you may use it as often as you like to restore the original color to your teakwood.

Sealing and Protecting

• With a little TLC, your teakwood can retain its new look longer. Applying teak oil to the surface of freshly cleaned and sanded teakwood will help the wood maintain its natural color longer.

  Teak oil products vary among manufacturers, and some contain add UV protection. You will apply the teak oil to the wood with a brush and leave it on. The oil penetrates the surface of the wood and seals the grain. Teak oil isn't a permanent solution; you may have to reapply it annually, but it will prolong the beauty and the life of the wood.

Storage

• While teak withstands the elements very well, it won't last forever. During the winter months when you're not using your outdoor teak furniture, cover it with a tarp or store it in a shed or a garage.