Tweak the Teak Patio Furniture

Teak, or Jati as it is called in Indonesia where it comes from, is a popular hardwood that has found a place in the world of patio furniture. It is not, contrary to popular opinion, a timber from tropical rainforests. In fact, it cannot be grown in such an environment, but rather in the dry plantation forests of Southeast Asia.
The teak tree is ready for harvesting when it reaches a height of about 150 feet and a diameter of around 3 to 5 feet, or about 50 - 60 years of age. If properly cared for it may produce a high timber yield of about 30 meters. One of the characteristics is a large leaf, about 12" and similar to a tobacco leaf.

Perhaps, the best thing about Teak patio furniture is the durability. Teak can withstand many weather conditions from the hot and humid temperatures of the tropics to the sleet and snow of northern climes. However, if you want to buy patio furniture that is going to last a lifetime, then Teak is your best investment. By investment, I mean that a nice set of teak patio furniture, one that you may use on your deck, patio, lanai, or terrace, will cost roughly about $3,000. And it will require maintenance in order to keep it looking beautiful for years to come.
Tweaking as I sometimes call it, or caring for Teak patio furniture is fairly easy and depends on the desired effect you want your furniture to have as it ages. For example, if you like the natural look of this dense wood, then just let it sit out in the open air during season and, if you live in the north, you may wish to store it indoors or at least cover it during the winter months. The wood, if maintained this way, will age to a nice silvery gray color on it's own.
Should you wish your Teak patio furniture to keep it's original brown color, then simply rub teak oil on it about once a year. I live in Florida and have seen it age both ways. Depending on the surroundings, I really have no preference as I think both colors are naturally beautiful.

Joseph Swenarton
Artist, designer, and author
www.patiopizzaz.com

Joseph Swenarton is an artist, designer, and author living and working in Naples, Florida. He recently was awarded 3 prizes in The American Art Awards International competition. Some of his work may be viewed at http://www.patiopizzaz.com.