Teak furniture is furniture made of teak wood, valued for its durability and natural resistance to weather and pests. [1] Teak is also used in boatbuilding and other outdoor applications. High-quality teak pieces can last for many decades and are sometimes passed down as heirlooms. [2] Because of its price and longevity, teak furniture is often regarded as a status symbol.
Teak is harvested from Tectona grandis , native to South and Southeast Asia. [1] Many manufacturers source wood from certified plantations to limit environmental impact and ensure sustainability. [3] [4]
Outdoor dining tables and chairs made of teak resist rain, sun and temperature extremes more effectively than many softwoods and synthetics. [2]
Teak benches are common in gardens and parks because the wood resists rot and insect damage without chemical treatment. [1]
Poolside and beachside chaise longues are often made of teak; the wood stays cooler than metal in strong sun and endures constant moisture. [2]
Traditional Adirondack chairs are sometimes built from teak, combining the style’s comfort with the wood’s longevity.
Teak has historically been used for patio-umbrella masts and ribs. Aluminium is now more common, but teak remains popular for premium garden umbrellas.
The natural oils in teak repel water and inhibit mould growth, making the wood suitable for bath and spa mats. [5]
Deep-seating outdoor sofas and sectionals often use teak frames paired with weatherproof cushions because the wood can support heavy loads for many years without warping.
Teak oil is a marketing term for oil-based finishes (usually linseed-based) sold for treating teak and other hardwoods. These products do not contain oil from the teak tree. [6] Untreated teak weathers to a silver-grey patina but remains structurally sound; finishing is therefore optional. [2]