Can You Leave Your Teak Furniture Outside in Winter?
Summary
Natural durability: Teak is historically valued for its strength and resilience (once used in shipbuilding) and is ideal for outdoor furniture due to its natural oils that protect against moisture, frost, and pests.
All-weather suitability: Grade A teak can remain outside year-round, even through harsh British winters. Unlike other woods, it won’t split or warp in changing weather.
Ageing gracefully: Sunlight and rain gradually change teak’s golden colour to a silvery grey. This weathered patina is cosmetic and adds character without weakening the wood.
Is it safe to leave teak furniture outside in the winter?
Teak has long been admired for its quiet strength and enduring beauty. A material once favoured for shipbuilding, it is still used for the decks of luxury yachts and boats today. It brings the same resilience to modern outdoor furniture. Its smooth grain, natural oils, and rich golden tones create pieces that are as pleasing to the touch as they are to the eye. And, for those who have already invested in teak, it’s natural to wonder how it fares when the temperature falls and winter arrives.
The reassuring answer is that teak is perfectly suited to stay outdoors all year round. Its innate oils function as a natural barrier against moisture, frost, and pests, allowing it to withstand the most changeable British weather without losing integrity or charm. Where lesser woods might split or warp, high-grade teak garden furniture remains steadfast, quietly maturing as the seasons pass.
Over time, exposure to sunlight and rain will gently transform teak’s golden hue to a soft silvery grey. This change is purely cosmetic; a natural weathering process that many find beautifully characterful. Embrace this patina and the wood itself will remain strong and sound for decades.
Caring for Teak Through the Colder Months
While teak can remain outdoors with confidence, a few simple steps will help preserve its beauty. Position your furniture away from persistently damp ground and, if possible, store it beneath a covered space such as a veranda or open-sided shelter. If left uncovered, a breathable protective cover offers added reassurance while allowing air to circulate. Always ensure the furniture is completely dry before covering to prevent trapped moisture.
Teak’s appeal lies in its ease of care. A gentle clean once or twice a year is all that’s required. Use mild soap, warm water, and a soft-bristled brush, following the natural grain. Once rinsed, simply allow the wood to dry naturally. There is no need for oils or sealants; the timber’s own oils are its best protection.
Keeping Teak at Its Best
When crafted from Grade A heartwood, as used in every Chic Teak piece, the timber’s density and oil content ensure remarkable longevity. The joints are precisely machined and traditionally fitted to prevent water ingress, preserving structure and elegance alike. With the right care, your furniture will not only survive the winter but emerge in spring looking effortlessly refined.
The Lasting Beauty of Teak
Teak’s ability to endure decades of outdoor life is what makes it such a rewarding investment. Each season brings new character to the surface - from the deep honeyed glow of summer to the muted tones of winter light - yet beneath, the strength remains unchanged.
At Chic Teak, we have spent over a quarter of a century perfecting the art of crafting furniture that embodies this timeless quality. Every piece is made from responsibly sourced Grade A teak, already assembled for your convenience and guaranteed for ten years.
We invite you to experience our furniture for yourself. Visit our Hampshire showroom to see, touch, and appreciate the quality first-hand, or speak with our knowledgeable team for advice on caring for your furniture through every season.