The last few months may not have brought the best of weather, to say the least, but some forecasters are predicting a heatwave as we move further into the summer. And with schools breaking up at the end of this month, you’re perhaps more likely to want to use your garden furniture and to make the most of your outdoor space, or perhaps to take it out of storage if you’ve been keeping it away from the recent wind and rain.
Equally, if you have been using your furniture over the last two or three months on those few sunny days we have enjoyed, now’s a good time to assess it. So put aside a couple of hours and freshen your furniture up. Here are some tips for looking after your teak garden furniture, whether they’ve been exposed to the elements or kept in storage.
Cleaning
We have previously written about the importance of regularly cleaning teak, but this can’t be stressed enough. In fact, you need to do it before you follow any of the steps mentioned below. Not only does cleaning improve the appearance of your teak garden dining set, it will also make it last far longer.
A mild detergent and some warm water are all you need, along with a soft brush to shift any remaining marks or grime.
While you’re at it, give you patio umbrella, which you would ideally have to protect your furniture from sun damage, a good old clean at the same time. Again, warm soapy water with a gentle detergent is your best bet.
With both the furniture and your umbrella, allow to dry out thoroughly before you do anything else.
Finally, sweep or hose down your patio or other outdoor living space regularly as well, to shift leaves, dirt and any other debris. After all, you’ll want to set off your furniture against a pristine background! If you spot any cracks or gaps, seal them up to keep moss and weed at bay.
Dealing with stains and spillages
During routine cleaning, you may spot some marks like stains and spills – or you may see these happen as you enjoy life al fresco with friends and family. They’re nothing to worry about – and are very common with all kinds of furniture designed for outdoor use. But prompt action is the best way to avoid lasting damage.
Most marks can be dealt with using a damp cloth or sponge with, again, gentle soap and water to clean the affected area effectively. For stubborn stains, consider a mild bleach solution, having first spot-tested it so that it doesn’t drain your timber of colour.
Check for repairs
It’s always worth doing this regularly. Turn each piece upside down and look at the condition of the legs and lower joints. Have the feet been damaged by water if you’ve put your furniture on grass?
Repair any damaged areas before you treat or decorate. If the timber is beginning to look a little silver, that’s entirely normal as it ages. Look for specialist garden furniture restorer products. Just work the product into the wood, leave and then rinse off. You’ll soon notice it’s a lighter colour.
Sanding
This prepares your teak garden furniture for being treated. You could use an electric sander on larger items, or just some good old-fashioned sandpaper (or a sanding block) and work by hand.
A good sanding showcases the new wood underneath and provides you with a smooth finish while shifting any stubborn dirt or other imperfections. Give your furniture a thorough brush-down afterwards so that now dust is left.
Sanding also means that any treatments or coatings will stick much better to your timber, and leave you with a better finish.
Treatment
Want your furniture to age naturally? A clear hardwood oil maintains teak’s appearance and provides protection. If you wanted to, you could also add some colour and paint your dining set in a different shade.
Alternatively, keep it looking more natural with a stained oil, applying in the grain’s direction. Allow it to dry and then add a second coat if necessary. Finally, leave for around 48 hours before you use it again.
Get in touch
At Chic Teak, our top-end, luxury teak garden furniture comes with a decade-long guarantee and is designed to stand the test of time. Get in touch today or browse our website – we’ll gladly chat about midsummer maintenance or ask any questions you may have.
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