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When it comes to outdoor furniture sets, teak more often than not comes up as the wood of choice for savvy consumers nationwide. Known for its sturdiness and weather-resistant nature, teak patio sets present a good looking and low maintenance choice for potential buyers. However, just because it is low maintenance, does not mean that teak requires no upkeep whatsoever. There are conflicting ideas as to the proper amount of care required of teak patio sets, but there is one thing remains certain. Common sense dictates that the more care is given to any piece of furniture, the longer it will last and retain its original vitality.
The following is a simple list of do's and don'ts which will help keep teak patio sets looking like new:
• Use paints and sealants that will bring out the natural color of the wood (teak tends to range from straw-colored to golden and to a rich brownish-red)
• Whenever possible, use plastic or vinyl tarps to keep outdoor furniture covered in winter; ideally, if there is room, bring furniture into storage
• Make use of teak's naturally produced oils; there's no need to overcoat or it could actually damage the wood
• Using a sealant once a year will help prevent cracking and retain the wood's original coloration
• Use soap or mild detergents on finished wood to clean and remove moss that might accumulate
• Make sure cleaners are rinsed off thoroughly from furniture to prevent buildup of soap scum
• Use stain preservatives that are semi-transparent with a UV inhibitor
• Don't use a power washer that could strip wood of its natural grain and sealant
• Don't use much extra oil on outdoor teak, or the wood can turn black from mildew; using some extra oil on indoor teak furniture is okay but remember that less is more
• Don't paint teak if it isn't already damaged; it ruins the natural beauty of the wood and paint will peel and blister over the years, causing more work in the long run
• Don't worry if teak patio sets turn grey; the natural solar patina process does not harm or weaken the wood in any way and often adds an elegantly graceful aged look
• Don't bother buying expensive special cleaners when household ones will do the job just fine
• Don't leave food, wine or coffee stains on furniture for too long or they may become permanent
• Don't leave wet furniture under tarps for long periods of time or molding may occur
Caring for teak patio sets does not require much of a time commitment or expensive extra products. If you forget to clean/seal furniture one year or don't have a chance to cover it one winter, don't fret. The natural durability of the wood will keep patio sets holding strong until you get to it. The main thing to remember is that a little goes a long way, and you can only get as much out of your teak patio set as you put work and loving care into it.
So you're looking to invest in long-lasting and good looking outdoor furniture. Your neighbor has long been touting the virtues of teak patio sets, but you're not quite yet convinced. Consider a few more reasons why you should take a chance on teak, and understand why this durable hardwood has been the choice of furniture builders for centuries.
From a purely monetary standpoint, teak chairs will normally run about $200 to $700 apiece, with full teak patio sets costing between $1,000 for smaller sets to around $5,000 on the higher end for larger or more ornate styles. While that may seem like a bit of sticker shock, other types of wood like wicker, cedar and cypress can cost just as much.
Wicker, a viable alternative for indoors or sunrooms, is the most fragile and prone to breaking down over time, but other softwoods (pine included) also require more maintenance than teak and are more likely to decay from environmental factors over the years. Metal patio sets can also be very pricy, and with them there is always the risk of rusting. Not only that, metal is heavy and hard to move and usually requires additional cushions to be comfortable enough to sit on.
All of that can add up to a hefty price tab. Other materials, like plastic, will offer cheaper options, but for the consumer looking for a long-term buy, plastic may not be the way to go. Because it is lightweight and breakable, plastic patio sets need to be replaced every few years.
One thing to remember about teak patio sets is that teak is some of the strongest wood used in furniture so it is not likely to break down, rot or become infested. Also, because of teak's naturally produced oils, it will hold its natural beauty longer and will not be as susceptible to cracking.
What all of that amounts to is less upkeep, meaning less money spent on costly sealants and cleaners. More than that though is the fact that teak will hold up for so long you may never need to buy another patio set again. Talk about a money-saver.
Another thing to remember is that all teak is imported from Southeast Asia, Central or South America. However, because of its popularity and high demand retailers can offer teak patio sets at competitive prices, unlike many other imported goods and resources. Also, even if not ready to commit to a large scale set, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the benefits of teak patio sets starting out small with teak planters, flooring and even teak dog and cat houses.
Taking the plunge with a major buy such as furniture can be a nerve-wracking proposition, but knowing the facts is the best way to make sure of a sound investment. With that, teak patio sets offer a number of advantages over the competition that make it not only a dependable way to spend your money, but they also exhibit a timeless grace and beauty that you can't find elsewhere.