Teak is as versatile as it is durable. The unique hardwood from Asia is well-known for its use in outdoor furniture. However, when you are considering the purchase of a teak bench, do not limit yourself into thinking they go on patios and nowhere else. The fact is, teak furniture goes well just about anywhere.



Backyards

Of course, when one pictures teak benches the mind will automatically go towards some exterior setting. Since the 1800s one of the classic uses of teak has been in outdoor furniture. It first was employed in Asia, from where it traveled to Victorian England, and eventually all points west, where it is today a beloved American fixture. A teak bench is great for backyard deck and patio use because it affords extra seating, but also because teak is particularly weather-resistant. The wood's natural oils help to preserve it and keep it from cracking and infestations, so little maintenance is needed. Oiling benches once to twice a year is all the upkeep needed, making teak benches a valuable asset.

Living/Family Rooms

A teak bench can also be used inside the home. Because of its pleasing color range and natural grain pattern, teak can compete in beauty and elegance with any indoor furniture. Unlike plastic benches, teak has a cozy feel and does not look cheap, whereas unlike metal benches teak will not be cold to the touch. When caring for teak furniture indoors, even less maintenance is required. Because it does need protect itself against the elements while inside, teak benches will not produce as much natural oil. As a result, adding your own oil or sealant coating is only necessary about once a year, maximum. Over-oiling can in fact ruin the wood, causing it to turn black from mold.

Bathrooms

The addition of a teak bench is great for bathrooms not only for the convenience they provide, but for well they hold up under prolonged exposure to water. In the past, teak's other main purpose was its prominence in shipbuilding. It was found that not only does the wood withstand moisture well, but it does strangely well against saltwater, too. Teak even goes so far as to help protect whatever metal it surrounds from rusting as a result of saltwater damage.

Spas

Similarly to bathrooms, teak benches are often seen in home and commercial spas and saunas. Most saunas, especially Finnish ones, are made from wood, so it is only natural the benches be made from a complementary material. Like bathrooms, spas and saunas can get very wet, so once again teak proves useful, but unlike bathrooms, spas are guilty of prolonged humidity. The combined stifling heat and moist air is enough to warp most types of wood. Teak, on the other hand, is native to the monsoon rainforests of Southeast Asia, so the climate is not so far off.

From there, let your imagination run rampant. Use a teak bench in bedrooms to put clothes on; sidle one next to a piano; place on the front porch for weary guests. Wood furniture in general can wear many a mask, and because of teak's characteristics in particular, the possibilities are virtually endless. Teak benches on the moon? Maybe that's still a little ways off.