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Outdoor entertainment plays a big role in Aussies’ lifestyle and we are always trying to use our outdoor space as much as we can. The popularity of cooking and eating outdoors has grown Australia wide, including anything from quick after-work dinners, BBQs with family and friends to formal garden parties. Having a backyard is a great benefit and if you want to make the most of it, you need to make sure you invest in a great outdoor kitchen, quality outdoor spotlights and the right furniture. When it comes to garden furniture teak wood has earned its place at the top and for a good reason.
Why Choose Teak Outdoor Furniture?
Teak is a large tropical tree with straight round stems, the total height reaches 40m and clear bole branches can reach 18 to 0 m. Native to South and South East Asia, this timber dates back to 7th century Siam, now Thailand. It was used to create and decorate royal homes, religious buildings and ships used for trading. During the Middle Ages, many civilisations were using teak wood for shipbuilding.
Teak tree possesses very durable hardwood which boasts incredible stability against the elements, UV radiation and insects. Due to these properties, it is sought after for creating high-quality furniture. When you choose garden furniture teak wood is the best option thanks to the number of benefits it provides, such as the following.
Weather Resistance
Theoretically, all materials used for making outdoor furniture are resistant to weather conditions. However, many of them, such as most types of wood, require protective treatments to be made suitable for outdoor use, while others need to be protected with furniture covers or moved indoors when not in use.
The high rubber and oil content of teak wood make it impervious to rain, high moisture levels and mould, as well as direct sunlight exposure. Teak furniture can be left outdoors throughout the year and you won’t have to worry about the weather conditions as it will not lose its beauty and it will not decay over time. However, if you decide to bring your teak furniture inside during the winter, make sure not to store it in heated rooms as it naturally expands and contracts based on changes in temperature.
Pest Resistance
Teak wood is dense, partly because it contains natural oils and silica, which is sand. These elements help to keep termites and insects at bay and they are unable to penetrate and cause any damage.
Strength and Durability
One of the main reasons why teak wood is a popular choice for outdoor furniture is its incredible durability. Being the strongest of the hardwoods, teak has the capacity to survive the Australian harsh weather conditions. It can last for generations in a wide variety of climates and still look good.
Aesthetic Appeal
Beauty is a matter of debate, but you probably agree that wooden furniture looks more aesthetically appealing than plastic or metal and gives the garden a sense of luxury. Teak furniture is easily incorporated into any garden because as a natural material, it blends perfectly with the natural surroundings and can easily become the focal point of your outdoor space.
However, this doesn’t mean that teak furniture should not be used indoors. In fact, it’s a great choice that can complement any room and make your home look more sophisticated and unique.
Temperature Moderation
The ability to regulate its own temperature is one of the most impressive characteristics of teak wood. It doesn’t absorb heat like metals or plastic, so you won’t have to worry about sitting down and burning the backs of your legs on a hot day. Also, you can rest assured that your garden furniture made from teak will not feel cold to the touch in the wintertime.
Versatility
Teak is a timber that is relatively easy to work with, which makes it extremely versatile. Benches, tables, chairs, deck chairs, bar stools and storage facilities can be all made using teak.
Low Maintenance
Teak requires no extra finishes or treatments to keep it in a good shape for longer. Teak furniture begins with a warm, golden colour, eventually fading to silvery grey patina over time. The amount of time it takes to weather depends based on the amount of sun exposure and the type of environment in which the furniture is left.
To remove moss, surface stains and dirt, you can wash the furniture occasionally with soapy water and a soft nylon brush. The best thing about teak is that no matter how old it is, it can be cleaned to bring back its golden colour. You can find a variety of products for teak care, from finishes to sealers, to help you get your furniture
Cost Efficiency
While some may be discouraged from buying teak outdoor furniture due to its cost, it’s a well-worth investment that pays off in the long run. It’s one of the world’s finest and most durable hardwood, but more importantly, it’s comfortable, aesthetically appealing and convenient outdoor furniture that you won’t have to replace often.
Before buying your teak wood furniture, make sure to read the description. If it says “teak oiled”, there is no guarantee how it will handle the weather. Teak oiled wood furniture means that the wood has been treated with teak oil and this treatment will wear away over time
