How to Varnish Teak

It is not necessary to varnish teak or protect it but it is advisable. Teak is an extremely durable wood even when it is left untreated. Teak ages very well and turns a beautiful ash gray when it becomes weathered. Teak has a very long shelf life so it will weather pretty much any storm. This is why it is highly popular wood for use with boat building and outdoor furniture. Teak mainly grows in Burmese forests and it produces an abundance of natural oils that make it a fine grained wood which withstands every condition.

Step 1 – Prepare the Wood

Whatever the project you are working on, whether it be a boat, boat decking, outdoor furniture or other exterior teak wood, you should begin by cleaning it. The wood needs to be dry before you proceed. If it is patio furniture you are working on to give it a face lift, then the same applies. Use a very gentle solution detergent like laundry soap liquid. Heavy abrasive detergents are not at all suitable for teak wood, as it is prone to being degenerated by such products. Do not make the mistake of using detergents that will ruin the teak.

Step 2 – Cleaning

Use a scrubbing brush or firm bristle brush with soapy water and scrub clean any stains on the teak wood. Leave the soap to soak in and left any stains or dirt from the fine grain of the wood and then rinse gently and let it dry thoroughly before you sand it.

Step 3 – Sanding

Sand the teak wood down with a very find grit sand paper. Do not use a grit which will destroy or scar the grain. Teak produces its own natural oils and these oils travel to the surface of the wood. Sand the teak in the direction of the grain and keep the sand steady and moving freely over the wood. You can use a block and sandpaper for the smaller areas where the sand won’t go.

Step 4 – Brushing and Varnishing

Once the teak is sanded down use a soft brush to clear off any debris and dust and then apply the first coat of varnish. Oil based polyurethane yacht varnish is the recommended type for outdoor teak staining and varnishing. Yacht varnish sets firm and gives a completely water proof and weather proof coating which will last for many a long year. Use a soft bristle brush to apply the varnish and always varnish with the grain of the wood.

Let the first coat dry completely and then sand very lightly with wet and dry sandpaper. This will let the second coat adhere to the teak. Wipe the residue and then apply the second coat of varnish. Let it dry for at least 24 hours to properly set and harden. You may apply multiple coats as needed. You can then put your outdoor teak to good use.