Removing Mould from Outdoor Teak Furniture: What You Need to Know
Outdoor teak furniture is both beautiful and durable, but it can be just as susceptible to mould damage as any other pieces of furniture on your patio. The longevity of teak furniture makes it seem stronger than furniture made from other types of wood, and while there is some truth to this, it doesn't mean that teak is invulnerable to mould. If you notice tiny dark flecks that have appeared on the surface of your outdoor teak furniture, these spots could well be mould. If left untreated, they will grow in number and size until they completely change the look of the piece of furniture. So what should you do to get rid of the mould on your outdoor teak furniture?
The Most Effective Method
The best way to remove mould and mildew from teak furniture is with a trisodium phosphate (TSP) cleaning product, which can be found in any hardware shop. There are a few things you need to know about using a TSP-based cleaning product on your teak furniture:
- You will need to dilute the product as per the manufacturer's instructions and apply it with a plastic-bristled scrubbing brush.
- Do not use a metal-bristled brush, as this can damage the teak. Rinse the teak using your garden hose to thoroughly remove the cleaning product.
- Use the TSP-based cleaning product sparingly, as the product can cause significant pollution in waterways. The phosphate in the TSP acts as a fertiliser, and can cause algae to breed uncontrollably in waterways. This means you should only use the product in a location where it will drain onto your lawn, as opposed to using it where it's able to enter a stormwater drain.
- Also be careful about using the TSP on any metal fixtures contained within the teak furniture. It's been known to cause discolouration.
Say Hello to the Sun
Moving your outdoor furniture into sunlight should stop mould in its tracks, although it won't remove mould that has already begun to grow. The UV light prevents mould from growing, although it can actually damage the wood. Be wary about leaving your teak furniture permanently exposed to sunlight without protection. You should apply a specially designed wood protector that will protect your teak furniture from UV damage. This will ensure that not only will the mould not grow, but the sunlight won't damage your lovely furniture.
With a little elbow grease and some help from the sun, you will ensure that your lovely teak furniture will beat the mould for years to come.