What You Should Know Before Buying Teak Furniture From Indonesia

One of the most sought after materials for outdoor furniture has always been teak. Its great weathered look and durability have long made it the most favored outdoor furniture product. Much of the outdoor teak furniture on the market comes from Indonesia, and there are many pricing and grading factors to consider.

In Indonesia, the harvesting and building of teak furniture is very varied. Many large, well-known companies do not have their own manufacturing facilities but rely on making purchases from many small local builders. The products are labeled and sold as if they are of standardized production but they aren’t. The wood is also often treated chemically for an enhanced look and it is not know whether it is ultimately safe for either people or the environment.

That isn’t to say that there isn’t some manufacturing in Indonesia that isn’t good. Many are more organized with modern factories with both updated machinery and techniques for building. They tend to use high grades of wood as well as fittings and glue, and their products will go to the consumer with a warranty or guarantee. These are the more professional products to look for when shopping.

When teak products arrive from Indonesia, it is up to the consumer to be armed with enough knowledge and questions to make an intelligent purchase. Teak, regardless of origin, is still a big investment and one wants to feel that they’ve made a wise decision. Ask questions and expect answers.

The grading of teak is one of the first places to start learning. By asking if teak is Grade A, much can be learned immediately. Almost none of the teak that comes from Indonesia is Grade A. That ranking is almost solely American teak. In looking at Indonesian teak, expect to see a soft yellow coloration to it. A reddish teak comes from the Amazon while American teak has little color to it. Neither Indonesian nor Amazonian teak will achieve the silvery weathering that American teak manages.

It is also wise to check the fittings. It is fairly easy to tell whether they are made of solid brass, stainless steel or a lower caliber brass that has been galvanized. The finish should appear natural with no evidence of stain or oil. Either of these constitutes ‘treatment’ and should be avoided if a weather effect is wanted.

The natural oil contained in teak is what makes it so beautiful over the years. Those properties come naturally, and are also what makes it so water repellent. There’s the very reason that shipbuilders have historically preferred it over all other woods. Withstanding nature with grace and achieving lasting beauty is important.

Guarantees are an important part of purchasing teak outdoor furniture. Always look for products that offer four to five years as a warranty for a simple reason. If the teak or fittings are inferior, the pieces will fall apart within that time and it will be possible to make a claim for refund or replacement. Make sure the paperwork is included with what you take home along with being marked on the receipt too.

There’s nothing wrong with Indonesian teak. It can be just as long lasting and beautiful as any other. It may not be as high of a grade as American teak but its price-line will also be lower. The consumer who makes an effort to become knowledge before a purchase is more likely to end up with a product that will please them for years to come.