How To Protect Teak Outdoor Furniture
Many of our customers frequently ask how to waterproof and protect their teak garden furniture. This comes as no surprise, given that teak is one of the most popular woods for outdoor furniture.
Teak as a wood is one of the most durable woods used in exterior garden furniture, as it is weather resistant, repels moisture and protects against UV damage. However, like all woods, teak outdoor furniture can become susceptible to weather damage over the years if not correctly protected and shielded from prolonged wet winters (and summers in some cases, yes I'm talking about you Scotland!). So what you’re really looking to find out is - how can you protect your teak outdoor furniture?
How To Protect Teak Garden Furniture?
We have a few paint recommendations that will allow your teak garden furniture to flourish, however lets start with some of the basic steps you can also take to minimise the damage caused to your furniture.
- Ensure your furniture is covered
This may seem like a straightforward recommendation, however if your old furniture cover has become damaged or weather beaten meaning it no longer serves its purpose it is important you replace this so your furniture can be shielded from the elements. This will long-term help to maintain the quality of the wood, ensuring it does not become susceptible to water damage etc.
- Store your furniture inside in a warm, non-damp, environment during autumn, winter and spring seasons
Storing your furniture away from the outdoors is the easiest way to keep your wood in tip top condition for years to come.
- Apply high-quality wood protection like yacht varnish
Our products best suited to teak furniture have been specially formulated for use on exterior smooth timber and provides ultimate protection to wooden surfaces.
Our Best Teak Garden Furniture Paints
To provide additional protection to your teak garden furniture, we have 2 heavy duty varnishes that will protect against cracking, peeling and also ensures all-weather UV protection.

1. Johnstone's Trade Woodworks Heavy Duty Yacht Varnish
This is a heavy duty varnish that is perfect for use on exterior smooth-planed timber, like your wooden garden furniture. It provdes a highly durable, flexible varnish film that flexes with the surface whilst protecting the wood. To ensure maximum benefits, apply 2 coats and ensure you leave each coat to dry after 16-24 hours under normal drying conditions. We recommend a light sanding between coats.
- Extremely strong and durable coating, protecting your furniture for years to come
- Clear varnish, allowing your teak wood to still appear as brand new
- UV protection - reduce any damage from the sun
- Gloss variant available in 750ml, 2.5L & 5L tins
2. Coo-Var Yacht & Seaplane Gloss Varnish
Coo-Var Yacht & Seaplane Gloss is a highly durable and specialist varnish that is designed for both exterior and interior use. This product provides a marine quality UV-resistant varnish which can be applied over existing paintwork and is suitable to exterior wood, furniture, doors, gates, and much more. For best results, apply 2 coats and leave adequate time (~12-18 hours) between coats.
- A marine quality UV-resistant varnish - this will provide incredible protection for your teak garden furniture, reducing any concerns around weathering of the wood for years to come
- Enhances the overall appearance of your wood
- Easy to apply and enjoy brilliant long-lasting results
- Also available in an eggshell finish
For further advice, you can read our steps on how to begin the painting process for your garden furniture.