Teak Patio Furniture: Durable And Beautiful

By Author: Melba Hill
Total Articles: 7
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Teak patio furniture is a durable, weather resistant and attractive addition to your backyard, and can be left uncovered all year. It is widely available in many articles such as benches, chairs, swings, tables, and lounges. The best quality furniture is made from 100% Tectona grandis teakwood. In fact, there are many benches in England that were made from ship decking over a hundred years ago that are still around.

Teak comes from Indonesia and is one of the hardest and strongest of all woods. Historically, teak was used primarily in building ships. It is valuable because it resists rotting and weather damage. It has a high oil content that makes it water repellent. It is also resistant to bugs. The wood is smooth and doesn't splinter. It has a warm golden color that can be maintained if treated with special protectors and cleaners. Some suppliers recommend not using these products and just letting the furniture age to a beautiful silver gray sheen. Painting is also not recommended. It is best to buy from companies that use wood from sustainable forests or reclaimed material.

There are many types of fabric for ...
... outdoor furniture that can be added to make it comfortable and add personal flair. Cushions and pillows come in a variety of solids, stripes, textures, patterns and plaids to suit any taste and give your furniture the right finishing touch. Even though outdoor fabric is designed to be used outdoors, it should be kept out of heavy rain. If cushions do get wet, they can be stood upright to let excess water drain out. General cleaning includes wiping the material with a 2:1 ratio solution of bleach and water. The cushions collect dust, dirt and pollen, which should be shaken out regularly. Cushion covers can be machine washed and hung out to dry, but using a dryer can melt them.

Outdoor fabric comes in many materials:
* Solution dyed, 100% acrylic is colored before being woven so the material resists fading.
* Acrylic coated 100% polyester is like acrylic but the material is woven first and then dipped into an acrylic coating. They are both durable and water resistant.
* Acrylic coated polyester/cotton or linen are blends of natural and synthetic materials. They are beautiful and durable, and come in a wide variety of colors.
* Vinyl coated polyester or laminated cotton is slick and glossy. They are waterproof and fire resistant but come in a limited amount of color and fabric choices.
* PVC is a coated mesh product like vinyl. It is mildew resistant and UV stabilized.
* Olefin is a man made material that dries quickly, resists mildew and bacteria, and doesn't stain, scuff, or fade much.

Because of its durability and beauty, teak patio furniture is a great choice for outdoor furniture. Add some colorful fabric for outdoor furniture, and it will look great in any backyard. With a minimum of care, it can be a rewarding investment that will last a long time, and provide many years of enjoyment outdoors.

Leslie contributes to several interior and outdoor design blogs explaining easy do-it-yourself projects and the value of strong outdoor furniture such as teak patio furniture.