Teak is a broad-leaved deciduous tree that grows in tropical forests. It is often used to build outdoor furniture because it resists weather better than other types of wood. If left untreated, it tends to fade to a greyish color, so it is often repainted. Before proceeding, you must first sand and smooth the surface well.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Sand the Teak Wood
Step 1. Remove dirt, dust and other debris
You can use a paper towel or dry cloth to remove the accumulated grime. If there are stubborn stains, try removing them using a damp rag.
Do not use household cleaning products. You risk damaging the wood and also complicate the painting job
Step 2. Sand where the surface is rough using a sheet of 120 grit sandpaper
Run your hand over the piece of furniture in order to identify the points where it is still rough. If you need to sand them to make the entire surface even, use sandpaper. Inspect the rough parts as you go to make sure they are consistent with the rest.
Step 3. Use 220 grit sandpaper all over the surface
Before moving on to painting, you need to make sure that the surface is uniform and ready to absorb the color. Then, sand it until it is completely homogeneous and smooth to the touch.
- Pass the sandpaper following the direction of the grain, otherwise you risk scratching the wood.
- Wipe off dust with a dry cloth before continuing.
Part 2 of 3: Smoothing the Surface
Step 1. Apply a layer of sealant
Use a foam brush to spread it out. This product will make the surface smoother and allow the dye to adhere better.
If you want a lighter color, dilute it with white spirit
Step 2. Remove excess sealant after a few minutes
Once the product begins to dry, use a clean cloth to remove any traces that have accumulated on the surface. This will prevent the wood from staining and keep the surface smooth.
Step 3. Let the sealant dry completely
It will only take a few hours for it to dry completely.
Step 4. Wipe the 220 grit sandpaper again
Before continuing, you should sand the surface several times. By doing this, you will be eliminating the places where the sealant has not dried evenly.
Use a cloth to wipe off any residue after sandblasting the cabinet again
Part 3 of 3: Painting the Teak Wood
Step 1. Apply a layer of color
You can use various tools for this. A foam or bristle brush will do, but you can also wipe the cabinet with a cloth soaked in paint. Spread an even layer over the entire surface.
If you want to partially paint it, use masking tape to protect the parts you want to exclude
Step 2. Remove any residual color that has not been absorbed by the wood
To remove excess color, use a clean, dry cloth. Pick one you can get dirty. Keep in mind that it is very difficult to remove wood dye from fabrics.
The longer you leave the product on before wiping, the darker the final color will be
Step 3. Let it dry
The time it takes for the furniture to dry completely will depend on how thick the color layer is. Avoid touching it too much if it is still wet, otherwise the surface may stain and acquire an uneven appearance.
Step 4. Add another layer if you prefer a darker color
Once the first coat has dried, carefully observe the result to see if you are satisfied. If you want the furniture to be darker, you can add another coat of wood dye to the previous one, following the same procedure.
Step 5. Apply a wood finishing product
Once you have the desired color, apply the finish with a clean brush and let it dry completely. There are three main products for this operation, each with its own characteristics:
- The oil finish gives the wood a more natural look, but it is not the most suitable product to protect this material. Avoid it if you have to use it on patio furniture.
- Lacquer strikes a great balance between aesthetics and resistance, but you need to apply more than one coat.
- The polyurethane finish provides better protection than the other two and is also water repellent.
Advice
- If you see rough or uneven areas, you can use a wood putty before painting the furniture.
- If you leave it outside, the teak tends to turn gray as the years go by. If it has changed color, you must sand it before painting.
- To get an idea of the result, follow the steps described in this article using a teak plank.