What Oil To Put On Teak Furniture

What Oil to Put on Teak Furniture

Teak oil is a natural oil that is extracted from the teak tree. It is a popular choice for protecting and finishing teak furniture because it is durable, water-resistant, and has a beautiful golden color. However, not all oils are created equal. Some oils can actually damage teak furniture, so it is important to choose the right oil for the job.

In this article, we will discuss the different types of oils that can be used on teak furniture and the pros and cons of each type. We will also provide some tips on how to apply teak oil and how to care for teak furniture.

Types of Oils for Teak Furniture

There are two main types of oils that can be used on teak furniture: penetrating oils and surface oils.

Penetrating oils soak into the wood and provide protection from the inside out. They are typically made from natural oils, such as tung oil or linseed oil. Penetrating oils can darken the wood slightly, but they will not leave a thick film on the surface.
Surface oils sit on top of the wood and provide a protective barrier. They are typically made from synthetic oils, such as polyurethane or varnish. Surface oils can create a glossy or matte finish, depending on the type of oil used.

Pros and Cons of Different Oils

The type of oil that you choose for your teak furniture will depend on your personal preferences and the look that you want to achieve.

Penetrating oils offer the following benefits:

They provide long-lasting protection from the elements.
They do not leave a thick film on the surface of the wood.
They can be used to restore old or damaged teak furniture.

However, penetrating oils can also have some drawbacks:

They can darken the wood slightly.
They can take several hours to dry.
They may require multiple applications to achieve the desired level of protection.

Surface oils offer the following benefits:

They provide a quick and easy way to protect teak furniture.
They create a glossy or matte finish, depending on the type of oil used.
They are available in a wide variety of colors.

However, surface oils can also have some drawbacks:

They do not provide as much protection as penetrating oils.
They can leave a thick film on the surface of the wood.
They may not be suitable for use on old or damaged teak furniture.

How to Apply Teak Oil

The first step to applying teak oil is to clean the furniture thoroughly. This will remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the oil's absorption.

Once the furniture is clean, apply the oil liberally to the surface. Use a brush or a cloth to work the oil into the wood. Be sure to apply the oil in the direction of the grain.

Allow the oil to soak into the wood for several hours. Once the oil has soaked in, wipe away any excess oil with a clean cloth.

Repeat the application process as needed. The more coats of oil you apply, the more protection your furniture will have.

How to Care for Teak Furniture

Teak furniture is relatively easy to care for. However, there are a few things you can do to keep your furniture looking its best.

Clean your furniture regularly with a mild soap and water solution.
Reapply teak oil to your furniture every few months, or more often if the furniture is exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Protect your furniture from direct sunlight and rain.

By following these tips, you can keep your teak furniture looking beautiful for years to come.