Care: Will Teak Furniture Turn Silver?

Teak is a popular choice for outdoor furniture and decking because of its natural durability and resistance to the elements. However, one factor to consider is that it tends to “silver off” over time, developing a beautiful, silvery-gray patina. This natural weathering process occurs as the wood is exposed to sunlight, rain, and wind, which gradually break down the surface oils and pigments.

The silvery appearance doesn’t affect the wood’s strength or integrity but rather adds a unique aesthetic as it ages in harmony with its natural surroundings.

The good news, if you’d prefer to keep your teak furniture golden-brown you can easily achieve this with a bit of care and maintenance.

Read our GUIDE: HOW TO CLEAN OUTDOOR FURNITURE →

Want a more technical explanation?

Teak is renowned for its high oil content and dense grain, which make it exceptionally resistant to moisture, insects, and rot. However, these same oils that protect the wood also play a crucial role in its color transformation. When teak is exposed to UV rays from the sun, the natural oils and pigments in the outer layers begin to oxidize. This oxidation process causes the original golden-brown color to fade, gradually turning into a silvery-gray patina.

The graying effect is further accelerated by environmental factors such as rain and wind. Rain washes away the oxidized layer, while wind carries away the microscopic particles, contributing to the overall weathering process. This patina is a superficial change and does not penetrate deeply into the wood, leaving the underlying structure and durability of the teak unaffected. Therefore, the time it takes for your furniture to “silver off’ will differ, depending largely on how much exposure it has to the elements.

The process of “silvering off” is a natural, protective mechanism. The gray patina acts as a barrier, shielding the wood from further UV damage. If desired, teak can be restored to its original color through sanding or applying specialized teak cleaners and sealers (Read our GUIDE here). However, many of our customers appreciate the weathered look as it adds character and charm to outdoor spaces.

If you’d like more information about why we choose Teak here at DEVON®, read our Journal on WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF TIMBER FOR OUTDOOR FURNITURE →