How to Restore and Refinish Old Teak Garden Furniture
When it comes to choosing the right furniture to achieve your garden goals, teak is top of the class. With the right care and attention, it can last for decades, making it one of the most popular choices in gardens across the UK.
And the good news is you don’t have to be a carpentry wizard to ensure your teak sets look their best for longer – all you need is a bit of know-how.
In this blog, we’ll take you through our expert tips on how to give old teak garden furniture a new lease of life just in time for summer.
Why is Teak a Great Choice?
Teak has traditionally been one of the most popular choices for garden furniture thanks to its wonderful combination of longevity, style, comfort and affordability.
High in natural oils and rubber, it is highly resistant to rotting and can be left outdoors during winter, making it popular with UK homeowners who want a low-maintenance choice. And it delivers on sustainability, too, which is increasingly important to many people.
By following expert advice, adopting effective restoration techniques and using quality products, you can enjoy your teak furniture for many years to come.
Top Tips for Restoring Your Old Teak Garden Furniture
To kick off your restoration journey, it’s important to go back to basics first. Cleaning furniture items is the first step, followed by carrying out any repairs on damage that may have been accrued.
This means:
1. Giving it a Good Clean
It can be common for leaves and dust to cake outdoor furniture, so sweep away any loose debris and let the cleaning begin! Next, take a soft-bristled brush or sponge and some mild dish soap or teak cleaner to remove the dirt and grime that has accumulated since the last time the item was cleaned. Scrub gently, working in the direction of the wood grain, then rinse thoroughly with clean water until all dirt and soap residue has been banished.
2. Let it Dry
Once you have finished cleaning the furniture, it’s time to pat yourself on the back and enjoy the results. It’s not to be self-indulgent, however. It’s to let the wood dry for 24 hours in a shaded area before taking the next steps.
3. Carry out Necessary Repairs
It may be that the deep clean has revealed some damage you were unaware of before, so now it’s time to get this fixed. This may be a loose screw that is easily resolved, or structural damage that needs an expert’s attention.
4. Sand the Surface for an Even Finish
Sanding is a very important aspect of garden furniture maintenance to remove old coats or imperfections and give the wood a fresh new finish before refinishing. Before conducting any sanding work, ensure your eyes are fully protected by wearing safety goggles or glasses, while you may also want to consider a face shield for extra protection.
You can use a coarse grit sandpaper and sanding block to remove outer layers until the surface is smooth, sanding with the grain of the wood to avoid damage. When this process has been finished, wipe off any dust with a clean cloth.
Top Tips for Refinishing Your Old Teak Garden Furniture
The often harsh UK weather can take its toll on teak garden tables, benches and chairs if not cared for properly, and that can lead to a dry or weathered appearance. Reapplying teak protector or sealer is a preventive measure to restore teak garden furniture and prevent weathering.
When it comes to restoring teak furniture, one of the most critical steps is selecting the right teak oil or sealer.
Factors to consider are:
Natural or Synthetic
Determine whether you prefer a natural teak oil, which enhances the wood's natural colour, or a synthetic sealer that provides a more durable finish.
UV Protection
Look for a product that offers UV protection to prevent the furniture from fading and deteriorating when exposed to sunlight.
Easy Application
Choose a teak oil or sealer that is easy to apply and doesn't require extensive preparation or maintenance.
Transform your Garden with Royal Finesse
Our teak dining table and chairs and full teak outdoor sets here at Royal Finesse deliver undeniable quality designed to suit every garden and every budget – explore our collection today to find your perfect pieces.
Need help? Get in touch with our team for personalised advice on the right teak furniture for your unique outdoor space.
