Teak, Tectona grandis, is one of the most valued woods in the world, high in natural oils that give teak strength and durability, making it virtually impervious to the elements. Teak is a tall sturdy, evergreen tree indigenous to the tropical climate of south eastern Asia. Indonesian teak wood is a dense, coarse, close-grained hardwood. It naturally contains high levels of resinous oil that acts as an insect repellent and allows it to be resistant to moisture and the drying affects of weather. No other wood compares to teak regarding its durability, elegance, stability and low maintenance; thus making it the ultimate material choice for furniture construction.
Teak wood is used primarily in the construction of outdoor furniture and in various aspects of shipbuilding because of its virtually indestructible composition. The furniture weathers beautifully and can be left untreated outdoors without the risk of rotting, it requires minimal maintenance and does not need to be sealed or treated on a regular basis. When first purchased the furniture is a bright golden colour and its natural oils make it appear polished. The surface oil evaporates within the first week, but the oil below the surface will last the lifetime of the furniture and enables the unmatched durability of the wood. After one or two seasons outdoors the wood will turn to a silver-grey colour, however if this finish is too rustic you’re your particular tastes, teak oil can be applied to create a full rich surface sheen.
If you prefer your teak in its natural state - left untreated - the furniture in time will turn a silver-grey in colour. This is the maintenance free approach that we advocate. In hot dry and sunny conditions, some cracks may appear especially on the end grain. These are perfectly normal characteristics of the wood and will not affect the strength or structural integrity of your furniture.
To maintain the more original golden appearance of your furniture teak oil can be applied. Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions. The oil is best applied with a cloth rather then a brush. This process will help reduce the amount of end grain cracking and possible warping that can occur over a period of time - if treatment is started. Once treatment commences, maintenance needs to be continued regularly, to prevent uneven colouring. When retreating your furniture it is essential that it is first cleaned using a teak cleaner to remove any dirt follow manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions. When your furniture is completely dry, teak oil can be re-applied.
This unique wood is cultivated in immense plantations and only cut down after decades of growth. It takes at Least 40 years before a teak tree can be felled; only then does the wood possess the quality that makes it so unique. The authorities ensure that as many trees are replanted as are felled so that a natural balance can be maintained. Teak furniture is perfect for relaxing in style. Pure, yet sober luxury creates a state of contentedness. Anyone who opts for teak opts for a lifetime of beauty and quality.
All Java furniture is constructed in the time honoured fashion of tight fitting mortise and tenon joints with teak dowels. Where possible, Java Teak furniture is delivered fully assembled. Most of our tables, chairs and benches share similar proportions and can easily be mixed and matched.
