Do you want to revitalise your outdoor space and extend your home’s entertaining area? Is your current patio furniture looking a little worse for wear? It may be time to consider swapping it out for something new.
As much as we love our indoor comforts, there’s something special about spending time outside. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet moment to yourself, having the right furniture to do so can make a world of difference. And among the wide range of timeless garden furniture, teak models have been gaining popularity in recent years.
What Are the Benefits of Teak Outdoor Furniture?
Teak is derived from the Tectona Grandis tree, which is indigenous to Southeast Asia. It’s well-renowned for its use in shipbuilding and other water-based applications due to its high resistance to rot and moisture. As a result, it’s an excellent material for outdoor furniture exposed to the elements. Here are some of the benefits of choosing teak furniture for your next garden upgrade:
Durable and Sustainable Build
It is a very strong and resilient wood. It can resist prolonged use and weather without displaying signs of wear and tear. The high oil and rubber component of the wood directly contributes to its long-lasting construction. It has an additional layer of defence against rotting, cracking, and infestation that other lumber can’t match because of these natural compounds.
Given the natural origins of this material, it’s also one of the more sustainable options you can choose. It can be grown in government-controlled plantations all across the world. The fast growth rate of the Tectona Grandis tree also makes it a highly renewable source that can be replenished quickly. Plus, its use contributes to the employment of many workers in developing countries. So, you can feel good about your purchase knowing that it’s helping to support a global industry.
Water-Resistant and Self-Regulating Material
Another selling point of teak outdoor furniture is its impressive water resistance due to its specific cell structure. This makes it the perfect choice for poolside areas, as it won’t swell or warp when exposed to moisture. Any sudden rain showers won’t cause any damage either.
The water resistance is also complemented by the wood’s ability to regulate its own moisture content. This means that it won’t shrink or crack as the temperature and humidity levels change. So, you can leave your teak furniture outside all year round without having to worry about any weather-related damage.
In addition, teak possesses an incredible ability to regulate its temperature levels. This means that it will remain cool to the touch, even in direct sunlight. And when the temperature does drop, it’s much less likely to suffer from the cold than other materials.
Simple Cleaning and Maintenance
Have you ever had to scrub away mildew or stains on your patio furniture? It’s not a pleasant experience – there’s lots of elbow grease required, and it’s never a guarantee that you’ll be able to get rid of everything.
This is yet another area where teak excels. Its natural oils make it resistant to dirt, grime and mould build-up. A simple rinse with a hose or some soapy water is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean. For tougher stains, you can use a soft-bristled brush so that you don’t damage the wood.
This low-maintenance construction is perfect for busy families or anyone who doesn’t want to spend their free time scrubbing away at their furniture. You can enjoy your timeless garden furniture without having to put in any extra effort.
Warm and Inviting Tones
There’s no denying that teak furniture has a certain level of sophistication and elegance. This is partly due to its warm tones, which range from golden honey to deep brown. These shades have an inherent ability to create an inviting and relaxed atmosphere in your garden.
They have a calming effect and an overall impression of luxury, which is appropriate for socialising or hosting events. You can be sure that your guests will be impressed by the furniture and may even be inspired to purchase some for their own homes.
Major Considerations
While teak does provide numerous benefits, not all furniture items have the same features or construction. Your particular needs will play a role in the overall decision-making process, and the specifics of the teak piece that interests you.
Teak Grade
The grade is basically a measure of the wood’s quality, and it will affect the overall appearance and lifespan of the furniture. Grade A is the highest quality, and it’s usually free from knots or other blemishes. This means it’s less likely to suffer from cracking or splitting.
Grade B is also high quality but may contain some small knots. It’s not as strong as Grade A, but it can still provide many years of use if it’s properly cared for.
Finally, Grade C is the lowest quality and usually has more blemishes, knots and defects. It’s not as sturdy or durable as the other grades, so it may not be suitable for high-traffic areas or harsh weather conditions.
Available Space
Naturally, you’ll need to take at how much space you have at your disposal before you can purchase any outdoor furniture. If you have a large patio or deck, then you’ll have more room to work with and can consider items like lounge chairs or dining sets.
If your outdoor space is smaller, then you’ll need to focus on finding compact pieces that won’t overwhelm the area. Folding chairs and tables may be something to look into, as they can be stored away easily when not in use.
