When it comes to patio furniture, there are few options that surpass the quality of teak. From visual appeal to weather resistance to ease of care, this popular wood is hands down one of the best options for outdoor applications. The bit of extra investment in this high quality wood will pay off in the long term, as it outlasts even the sturdiest of other hardwoods.

While most buyers have heard of teak, the details of its benefits are widely unknown. The most important aspect of this tropical wood is the strength of the wood. Unlike forest harvested hardwoods that crack, split or warp, teak's high, natural oil content prevents such damage. With proper care and protection from extreme weather, the material will outlast even the finest pieces of other hardwoods.

Teak is also an incredibly environmentally friendly wood. For many years, there were widespread concerns about the over use of old growth wood, the most durable form of the wood. However, because this material is such a fast growing wood, producers were able to farm the trees in a sustainable manner. The new growth wood is treated and kiln dried so it is just as strong as the old growth wood, without the threat of deforestation.

Because teak is now farmed, rather than harvested from a forest, its price is comparable to other hardwoods. Extremely high quality wood still fetches a premium, but the cost is greatly outweighed by the lifespan of the furniture. Most other hardwoods require meticulous care, including the routine application of a sealant, to extend their lives, especially if used in outdoor furniture; this regular maintenance can add hundreds of dollars to the original cost of the piece, erasing any savings the buyer may receive by choosing other hardwoods over teak.

When it comes to maintenance, teak is the clear winner. It doesn't require the sealants and treatments that other hardwoods do. The only routine care this material requires is an annual cleaning and protection from extreme weather, like snow or excessive rain. If left untreated, the surface will fade to from a honey brown to a lovely silver patina, rather than the lifeless shades adopted by other hardwoods after weathering. This color change happens over the course of approximately 9 months of no treatment and does not cause damage or affect the durability or quality of the wood.

To avoid the fading process, teak requires an annual application of a wood protector. These protectors are sold by manufacturers and seal in the original luster of the wood. If the wood has already faded, it can be restored by using one of several products available specifically for teak furniture. Unlike other hardwoods, this type of wood cannot be stained or painted. The natural oils that protect it from the elements also prevent anything from sticking to it.

By all measures, teak is a superior choice for wooden outdoor furniture. Its strength, durability and ecological benefits greatly outweigh even the strongest of other hardwoods, and its beauty and cost add to its value over the long term. This premium wood is an excellent investment for anyone shopping with true quality in mind.