Buying Tables and Chairs

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Teak Furniture for Outdoors

Whilst searching for the best furniture for outdoors, you'll see everything from plastic to iron to hard woods like teak. However, once you've seen teak tables, benches, lounges, and chairs, it might just be impossible to look at other furniture in quite the same way again. Sure, teak is beautiful, but is that it's only advantage? What about drawbacks? The info you need is below.

Advantage: Weather Resistance

Teak wood has a particularly high density, which makes it both super strong and resistant to weather damage. Many other woods are susceptible to rot and shrinkage over time, but teak has high amounts of resinous oils,  silica, and rubber that create resistance to both. Its unique composition means that teak is an excellent choice for any outdoor furniture. It's also commonly used indoors as a hardwood floor thanks to its strength. 

Advantage: Pest Resistance

One of the primary problems with most outdoor wood furniture can be susceptible to pests. Pests like termites are capable of virtually eating your wood home down to the ground, and they can make quick work of your outdoor furniture, too. However, teak wood's natural resinous oils repel termites and other pests. Applying a specialised teak oil to your outdoor teak furniture can increase this natural resistance even more. 

Advantage: Unique Colour

Teak has a unique colour that no other woods can really match. The warm and rich brown colour will remain intact for many years, as long as you apply teak oil once or twice each year. If you allow the teak to weather, it takes on a stunning silver-gray shade that many people find even more attractive than its original colour. 

Disadvantage: The Cost

The main drawback in purchasing teak furniture is the cost. No doubt, teak is among the most costly outdoor furniture options today. Many people may hesitate to spend as much (or more) on outdoor furniture as they do for their indoor furniture. However, it's important to remember that teak furniture is a true investment. As long as you care for it properly (polishing with teak oil 1-2 times annually) you'll enjoy many years—often even a lifetime—of use. If you enjoy spending time outdoors and would use your teak furniture regularly, the potential disadvantage of cost isn't really as much of a drawback as it might initially appear. 

Ready to Think About Teak?

If you're ready to see teak benches, pool lounges, teak tables, or other stunning outdoor furnishings, contact a local teak furniture store. They can help you choose the ideal furniture for your outdoor enjoyment.