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Handy Hints - Hardwood Garden Furniture
Teak (Tectona grandis) and Iroko (Chlorophora excelsa) are the main tropical hardwoods used in garden furniture and both are classed by the UK Timber Research and Development Association as "very durable", the highest rating available. Both timbers are similar in appearance, properties and resistance to decay is in excess of 25 years. Other tropical hardwoods can be used for garden furniture and are cared for in a similar manner. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Many manufacturers' web sites do contain detailed information for care of their individual brands.
Dependent on personal taste, a prompt decision will need to be made regarding whether or not to treat the timber.
Treating the furniture when brand new
To help maintain a more original appearance, the furniture should be treated with a good, quality teak oil or any other suitable exterior finish, always carefully following the manufacturers' instructions. Treating the timber will help to reduce end grain cracking and slow down the weathering process as it limits changes in the moisture of the wood.
Leaving the wood untreated
If left untreated, the furniture will naturally weather to an attractive silver grey colour. As part of this weathering process small cracks may appear especially on the end grain and to a lesser extent on the surface. This is a normal process and the garden furniture is designed with this in mind and its natural strength and durability will not be affected. In hot, sunny and dry conditions, some cracks may appear larger, but these will normally reduce in cooler, wetter conditions.
Cleaning and re-treating the furniture
When retreating the furniture, it is essential that it is first cleaned to remove dirt. Use either use a scrubbing brush and warm soapy water or a jet wash, very carefully. When using a jet wash, great care must be taken to ensure the correct distance from the surface to prevent damage. When completely dry, lightly sand the furniture, paying particular attention to remove any weathered areas. When the wood is completely clean and dry and free from weathering marks, the furniture can then be re-treated with a high quality teak oil or similar treatment. See information as above for brand new furniture. Generally this will would be to apply a light coat of high quality teak oil with a paintbrush with any surplus being wiped away immediately with a clean absorbent cloth.
Note
Applying teak oil to uncleaned and dirty furniture will result in making the furniture very dark and eventually blackening.
For larger dining suites and swing seats some manufacturers offer a loose cover to protect the furniture from dirt and pollution.