Teak Construction:

Frontgate furniture is built of premium, natural teak.

Teak is a durable, dense, coarse, close-grained hardwood ideal for patio furniture. It contains high levels of resinous oils that make it naturally resistant to moisture, repellent to insects and impervious to drying. Teak also contains silica, a sand-like component that makes it resistant to fungal decay, water, rotting, warping, shrinking and swelling.

Untreated teak will naturally develop a lovely silver-gray patina over time that some people desire. This process occurs as surface pigments start to fade (which does not affect the durability or strength of the wood). Treated teak will retain its natural golden color longer but will require periodic reapplication of teak oil. In either case, periodic cleaning may be necessary to remove stains and surface mildew.

Rain and damp conditions will cause some - but not all - of the resinous oils to naturally release from teak, which can stain some patio surfaces and cushions. This natural leaching will stop over time but, until it does, prevent stains by placing teak furniture on a rug, removing cushions from wet or damp teak and cleaning cushions with soapy water as soon as stains begin to appear.

Cleaning Teak Furniture:

Although naturally resistant to decay, mildew can form on the surface, especially when used outside for long periods of time. Surface mildew does not affect the durability or longevity of the wood and can be easily washed off.

To clean the surface, either spray the furniture with water or apply a mild washing solution and scrub the surface with a soft-bristle brush.

• Always begin with a mild - or more diluted - cleaning solution (see below). If that does not work, try a stronger concentration or a store-bought teak cleaner.

Teak Cleaning Solution:

• 1 cup chlorine bleach
• 1 cup laundry detergent
• 1 gallon warm water
• Either apply the above cleaning solution using a brush with soft, plastic bristles (metal bristles will scratch the surface) or apply the store-bought cleaner according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Allow to sit on the furniture for approximately 5-10 minutes, longer for more stubborn stains.
• Thoroughly rinse the cleaning solution with clean water (spray it with a garden hose).

To remove remaining stains, lightly sand the affected areas with fine-grit sandpaper until the stain disappears.

Oiling/Sealing Teak Furniture:

Treating teak with oil or teak sealer helps to retain and enhance teak's natural golden honey color. It does not affect its strength or longevity. Teak that remains outside for extended periods of time will require reoiling or resealing approximately every 2 to 3 months.

Tung oil is recommended by professionals, but linseed oil and store-bought teak oil can also be used. (If using a commercial teak sealer, follow the manufacturer's instructions.)

Storing Teak Furniture:

When teak furniture is not in use, we recommend using covers, storing it indoors or placing it in a watertight shed or garage. If storing in a heated room, avoid immediately moving it into a cold outdoor area, as sudden differences in temperature and humidity may cause the wood to split.