Teak wood is a popular choice for outdoor furniture because of its natural beauty, strength, and weather resistance. However, even high-quality teak furniture needs proper care and maintenance to keep it looking its best. Applying teak oil is an easy way to restore and protect outdoor teak furniture. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use teak oil on outdoor furniture.
Clean the Furniture Thoroughly
The first step is to clean the teak furniture to remove any dirt, dust or residue. This allows the teak oil to penetrate the wood properly.
- Use a stiff scrub brush and warm soapy water to scrub the entire surface. This will remove any grime or buildup.
- Pay close attention to crevices, carvings and joints where dirt often accumulates.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow the furniture to dry completely before applying teak oil.
Sand the Teak Lightly
Use 220 grit sandpaper to lightly sand the teak furniture. This helps open up the pores of the wood so the oil can soak in better.
- Sand along the wood grain using gentle, even strokes. Don’t scrub too hard.
- Sand all surfaces including joints, edges and undersides.
- Clean away sanding dust with a dry cloth after sanding.
Apply the Teak Oil
With the furniture ready, it’s time to apply the teak oil. Work in manageable sections.
- Use a high-quality teak oil made specifically for outdoor furniture. Avoid cheaper oils.
- Pour some oil directly onto the teak surface. Spread and brush evenly using a clean lint-free cloth.
- Apply in the direction of the wood grain to get an even coat.
- Let the oil soak in for 10-15 minutes then thoroughly wipe off any excess with a clean dry cloth.
- Allow the furniture to dry for at least 24 hours before use. Oil drying times can vary based on climate.
- Apply a second coat if needed to achieve the desired finish.
Maintain the Finish
- Reapply teak oil whenever the wood looks dry or faded. Most teak furniture needs oiling every 2-4 months.
- Lightly sand to refresh the wood before reapplying oil. This removes any grayed fibers.
- Use teak cleaner to periodically remove stubborn stains or mildew.
- Consider a teak sealer for extra protection if the furniture gets frequent use.
Properly oiled teak develops a warm golden glow that enhances the wood’s natural patterns and grain. With regular care, high quality teak furniture can provide many years of enjoyment outdoors. Follow these tips on how to use teak oil to keep your furniture looking its best.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Teak Oil on Outdoor Furniture
How much teak oil should I apply?
- Only a thin coat of oil is needed. Apply enough to moisten the wood without leaving any puddles or pools. After 10-15 minutes, thoroughly wipe off any excess oil with a clean dry cloth.
How often should I reapply teak oil?
- In most climates, teak oil will need to be reapplied every 2-4 months to maintain the finish. Apply more frequently if the furniture gets frequent use.
What type of cloth should I use to apply teak oil?
- Use a soft, lint-free cotton cloth or rag to apply and remove excess oil. Avoid paper towels, which can leave behind fibers and debris.
Can I use olive oil or vegetable oil instead of teak oil?
- It’s best to use an oil made specifically for teak like teak oil or Danish oil. They penetrate better and contain UV inhibitors. Food oils can go rancid over time.
How long does teak oil take to dry?
- Teak oil typically dries within 24 hours in ideal conditions. Drying time varies based on temperature, humidity and other climate factors.
Do I need to sand teak before oiling?
- Lightly sanding opens the pores so the oil penetrates better. But it’s ok to oil without sanding if the teak is relatively smooth.
Can I use teak oil on unfinished or new teak?
- Yes, teak oil is safe for use on new, old, or unfinished teak furniture. It penetrates well and provides protection.
How do I remove old teak oil before reapplying?
- Use a teak cleaner and scrub brush to remove built up layers of old oil. Mineral spirits can also help dissolve old oil.
Conclusion
Caring for outdoor teak furniture with regular applications of high-quality teak oil helps maintain its warm, golden appearance and weather resistance. By following the proper process of cleaning, sanding, oiling and removing excess, you can keep your valuable teak furniture looking beautiful for years of enjoyment. Be sure to oil outdoor teak every few months as needed to prevent the wood from drying out. With the right care, your teak furniture can become a durable, lasting backyard asset.