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We are often asked about the necessity of oiling teakwood furniture. To begin
with, please understand that it is not needed to protect the furniture**.
Oiling is done to maintain the warm tones of the wood - it keeps the
furniture from weathering to a soft gray color.
To maintain the color you will need to oil the furniture approximately three
times each year. Remember, teak does not require oiling.
It's completely optional. For a lower maintenance finish, consider using a high
quality teak sealer. Seal will usually last an entire year without needing
re-application.
If you do wish to oil, please use the following as a guide:
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Your furniture MUST BE completely dry, otherwise moisture trapped
within the wood may cause black mildew spots to appear after oiling.
Your furniture may take up to 48 hours to fully dry out after a rain.
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You must apply teak oil before your furniture begins to weather. If
it has begun to weather, scrub your furniture with a stiff poly-bristle
brush and soapy water, rinsing as you go with the garden hose. (Note:
there are several wood deck cleaners available which will make the job
much easier, or, a pressure washer works wonderfully too.) then allow
the furniture to fully dry
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Ensure the surface is clean and free from dust
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Use true teak oil - do NOT use "finish". This is available
from a store which would stock boating and marine supplies (teak oil is used extensively
on boats).
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The
oil can be applied with a clean brush, starting from the top and working
downwards. The surface should be left wet by the brush, but try to avoid leaving
too much surplus oil behind as you work. After
a few minutes - maybe 5 - 15 depending on the ambient temperature, the oil will
start to become 'tacky'. At this point the surface of the furniture should be
wiped down with a clean cotton rag, carefully removing all surplus oil. One coat
is sufficient.
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Teak oil will trap dirt and darken with age, therefore it will be
necessary to scrub off the old oil and recoat periodically (once a year is
generally sufficient). Follow the instruction on the teak oil label.
**When used as indoor furniture, a light coating of teak oil is recommended
to keep the furniture from soiling and will last for years without need for
recoat.
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