How to Care for Teak

Overview

Teak is a strong wood harvested from forests in Java and Burma. The wood has a natural golden brown color that changes over time to a silvery and eventually dark gray color when used in an outdoor setting. This whole process takes from six to nine months; the teak maintains its structural integrity, but the look is gone. You have two options: Preserve the natural color of the teak, or let it weather and enhance the new color.

Preservation

Step 1

Clean the wood thoroughly before it starts to change color. Dust if it is just surface dirt. Scrub or use a pressure washer if dusting does not remove all the dirt.

Step 2

Apply a light coat of teak oil using a clean cloth or paint brush. Wipe away any excess oil and allow to dry.

Step 3

Repeat the process every three months.

Enhancing

Step 1

Scrub with soapy water to remover all dirt and grime either by hand or with a pressure hose. Set the gauge to a pressure of 60 to 80 bar--900 to 1200 psi. Spray from a distance of 6 to 8 feet from the wood, using a constant, gentle pressure.

Step 2

Let small cracks remain; they are normal and do not need any further treatment.

Step 3

Remove stains from food immediately. Soak up the stain with a cloth by applying pressure, not by rubbing. Then rub the area with sandpaper, and the stain should be gone.