Spending time outdoors with family and friends is one of life’s greatest joys. And what better way to create lasting memories than gathering around a handsome, durable teakwood picnic table?
Teak has long been prized in outdoor furniture for its natural weather-resistance and enduring beauty. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right teakwood picnic table for your needs?
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key factors to consider, showcase some of the top contenders, and provide expert care and maintenance tips to preserve your investment for years to come. Let’s dive in!
What to Look for in an Ideal Teakwood Picnic Table
Like any significant furniture purchase, there are a few important things to keep in mind while shopping for the perfect teakwood picnic table:
Intended Use
Think about how you plan to use your picnic table most. Is it primarily for family gatherings and meals? Or will it be put to work hosting parties and events? If it’s for everyday use, you may want a more solid, substantial table. But if you plan to store it between uses, a foldable or portable option could be ideal.
Size
Make sure to get accurate measurements of the space where you plan to put the table. Measure both the length and width. And consider how many people you’d like the table to comfortably seat. Adults generally need at least 24″ of space. So for a family of four, an ideal table is at least 72″ long. But if you host larger gatherings, plan for more seating space.
Design Style
There are all sorts of stylish teakwood picnic table designs to match any aesthetic. Rustic, traditional models often feature attached benches. Modern versions may have sleeker lines and separate benches for mobility. There are also practical folding tables, some with umbrella holes for added shade.
Features
Consider which features will enhance your experience. Do you want a table with an umbrella hole to insert a patio umbrella? Attached benches or separate portable benches? Does it need to be wheelchair accessible? Think through useful add-ons.
Portability
If you plan to store your picnic table between uses, look for lighter-weight models with folding capabilities. Some tables fold completely in half and have carrying handles or wheels for easy transport. Just make sure folding hinges are high quality.
Construction
Examine how the table is put together. Quality teakwood picnic tables use mortise and tenon joinery and stainless steel hardware for maximum stability and weather-resistance. Avoid cheaper tables with nails or staples that can corrode.
Maintenance
Teakwood has natural oils that make it resistant to weather. But many tables come “pre-treated” with protective sealers or varnishes that require periodic reapplication. Make sure you know what the maintenance demands will be before purchase.
Budget
While teakwood furniture is considered an investment, picnic tables can range widely in price – from a couple hundred to several thousand dollars. Set realistic expectations about what you can spend before falling in love with options out of your budget!
Warranty
Look for a solid warranty (at least 1-3 years) that covers defects and durability issues. Many manufacturers expressly warranty their teakwood to be weather-resistant and stable. A warranty provides peace of mind.
Brand Reputation
As with any major purchase, it pays to stick with established brands with reputations for quality craftsmanship and great customer service. Look for brands that have been in business for decades and have many positive customer reviews.
The Top 5 Teakwood Picnic Tables
Now that you know what to look for in the ideal picnic table, here are five of the top contenders on the market this year:
Jelmar Montreal Premier Teak Rectangular Picnic Table
With its traditional style and solid teak construction, the Jelmar Montreal Premier picnic table is built to provide decades of durability and beauty. Its 85″ rectangular tabletop comfortably seats six. And the 60″ attached benches make it easy to slide in and out. Customers love the simplicity, quality craftsmanship, and smooth sanded finish. Some assembly is required.
Keter Rio All-Weather Picnic Table
For portable convenience, the Keter Rio is a top choice. Made of polywood resins, it provides the look of wood without the maintenance. The table folds compactly in the middle for storage and has built-in handles and wheels for mobility. Its attached benches seat up to eight comfortably. Customers love how realistic it looks compared to real wood. The only downside is its lightweight construction not being quite as sturdy.
Outer Designs American Teak Picnic Table with Umbrella Hole
Ideal for frequent use, the Outer Designs picnic table is made entirely of gorgeous salvaged teakwood. Its wide umbrella hole accommodates a patio umbrella. And its 86″ table length seats up to eight people comfortably. The table comes pre-treated with teak oil and features mortise and tenon joinery for incredible stability. It’s on the higher end of pricing, but buyers say the quality and beauty is well worth it.
Lifetime Fold-in-Half Tables
For affordable versatility, the Lifetime 8-foot plastic fold-in-half picnic table is tough to beat. Its lightweight polyethylene plastic construction makes it easy to carry and fold up for storage. But it still seats eight comfortably and feels sturdy and stable in use. The neutral sand color resembles wood. It’s by far one of the most budget-friendly teak alternatives that still offers quality and convenience.
GDF Studio Key Largo Teak Finish Picnic Table
This teak-finished picnic table from GDF Studio infuses modern style into outdoor dining. Its clean lines and simple design nod to mid-century modern appeal. The table is large enough to seat eight people comfortably. And it’s made of weather-resistant eucalyptus wood with a teak finish that holds up well outdoors. Some assembly is required. But if you want an affordable, contemporary table, it delivers outstanding value.
No matter which design you choose, the best teakwood picnic tables provide beauty, durability, and lasting memories for years of outdoor living and dining enjoyment. Keep reading for more guidance on choosing the right one for you!
Key Pros and Cons of the Top Teakwood Picnic Tables
To make the buying choice even easier, here’s a breakdown of some of the biggest pros and cons of these top picnic table contenders:
Jelmar Montreal Premier
- Pros:
- Traditional all-teak design
- Smooth sanded finish
- Mortise and tenon joinery
- Comfortably seats 6
- Attached benches
- Cons:
- Assembly required
- On the pricier side
- Not foldable/portable
Keter Rio
- Pros:
- Folds for storage
- Built-in wheels and handles
- No maintenance required
- Resists weather
- Seats up to 8
- Cons:
- Not as sturdy as real wood
- No umbrella hole
- Attached benches don’t move
Outer Designs American Teak
- Pros:
- Salvaged teak is durable and gorgeous
- Pre-treated and ready to enjoy
- Wide umbrella hole
- Seats up to 8
- Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Heavy and not portable
- Needs re-oiling over time
Lifetime Fold-in-Half
- Pros:
- Most affordable option
- Folds in half for storage
- Easy to transport
- Withstands weather
- Seats 8
- Cons:
- Not real wood
- Minimal style/design
- Not as sturdy as teak
- No umbrella hole
GDF Studio Key Largo
- Pros:
- Contemporary design
- Teak finish weathers well
- Roomy 8 person seating
- More budget-friendly
- Cons:
- Requires assembly
- Not actual teakwood
- No folds or portability
- No umbrella hole
As you can see, there are great options for any need and budget. Just be sure to consider which features are must-haves before deciding!
Tips for Choosing the Best Teakwood Picnic Table for YOU
Here are some quick tips for zeroing in on the ideal teakwood picnic table for your particular patio space and needs:
- For small patios, choose compact 4-6 person tables or foldable models
- If hosting larger gatherings, get a spacious 8+ person table
- For everyday family use, pick sturdy, stationary styles with attached benches
- If mobility is important, look for folding tables with carrying handles
- For low maintenance, opt for pre-treated or polywood materials
- If you’ll store it between uses, foldable is key
- Add an umbrella hole if you need shade
- Splurge on real teak if you want an heirloom-quality investment
- For budget buyers, go with sturdy teak-finished options under $300
No matter which you choose, just ensure it’s the right size, style, and construction for how YOU plan to use it!
Caring for Your Teakwood Picnic Table
One of the best parts about investing in a quality teakwood picnic table is that teak naturally withstands exposure to sun, rain, frost, and snow. With just a little regular care, your table can last for decades of outdoor use. Here are some top tips for keeping your picnic table looking its best:
Cleaning
For basic cleaning, a mild detergent and warm water is all you need. Scrub the table gently with a soft cloth or scrub brush. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that could scratch the wood surface.
For a deeper periodic cleaning, mix up solution of one part bleach to four parts water. Apply this solution generously to the table with a sponge or brush, Wait 5-10 minutes, then rinse clean and dry with a soft towel. This will banish mildew and brighten the look of the wood.
Sanding
Over time, the harshness of sun and weather exposure will cause the teak wood to look a bit grey and worn. Some people enjoy this aged, weathered appearance. But if you want to refresh the color, simply sand the table lightly with 120 grit sandpaper. This takes off only the top layer while revealing the gorgeous honey-brown color of the teak underneath. Just be careful not to overdo it and sand too deeply.
Oiling or Sealing
Many premium teakwood picnic tables come pre-treated with teak oil or sealant. This helps protect the integrity of the wood from inside and out. Depending on the finish used, reapplication is recommended every 1-2 years. Use a high-quality teak oil or sealer specified for outdoor furniture. Carefully follow the brand’s application and curing instructions.
If your table was not pre-treated, decide if you wish to keep its natural unfinished look or treat it for added protection. Untreated teak will develop a silvery-grey patina. But treated teak better resists staining, food spills, and moisture damage.
Hardware Maintenance
Periodically check all connecting hardware like bolts, caps, and hinges. Tighten any loose screws or connections. Lubricate hinges as needed to keep folding mechanisms operating smoothly.
Storing in Winter or Severe Weather
Teakwood is highly weather-resistant, but any wooden furniture will last longer if protected from snow, heavy rain, and frigid temperatures. Consider covering your picnic table with a tarp or moving it to a sheltered area like a garage or shed during the off-season. Just be aware that condensation can collect under tarps and cause mildew if not adequately ventilated.
Another option is to purchase a fitted vinyl table cover designed for protection during storage. Keep the table somewhere flat and elevated off damp ground for best results.
Proper storage and maintenance will keep your prized teakwood picnic table serving your family for decades to come! Apply a fresh coat of teak oil or sealer each spring and keep it clean, and it will provide a lifetime of cherished memories.
Answers to 10 Common Questions About Teakwood Picnic Tables
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you gain deeper insight before purchasing your ideal teakwood picnic table:
How durable is teakwood against weather exposure?
Teak rates among the most durable and weather-resistant woods used in outdoor furniture manufacturing. Its high concentration of natural oils allows it to stand up excellently to rain, snow, and sun over decades of use. It does not require treatment or finishing to withstand outdoor conditions. But finishing does offer added protection.
Does teakwood require much maintenance?
One of teak’s biggest benefits is its low maintenance demand. Teak’s natural oils help it resist rot, warping, and mildew. At most, teak should be sanded and re-oiled every year or two to refresh its luster. And an occasional wash with soapy water is all that is needed to keep it clean. Less maintenance than most outdoor woods.
Is teakwood eco-friendly? Where does teak come from?
Teak is sourced responsibly from managed teak tree plantations, mainly in Indonesia and Burma. It is naturally pest-resistant and regrows quickly without needing fertilizers or pesticides. Teak is valued in its native regions for its economic and environmental benefits. So yes, it is one of the more eco-friendly, sustainable exotic woods.
What is the typical price range for teakwood picnic tables?
Expect to pay anywhere between $300 on the very low end, up to $2,000-3,000 for intricate hand-carved teak tables. But for a good-quality 8-seat table, plan on spending $800-1,200. The priciest models are crafted from single slabs of dense, gorgeous teak. More affordable versions may use teak veneers over other woods.
How should I clean a teakwood picnic table?
Use a mild detergent and warm water solution applied with a soft scrub brush. This will remove dirt, bird droppings and other debris. For stubborn stains or mildew, make a gentle bleach solution of 1 part bleach to 4 parts water. Scrub and rinse clean. Avoid abrasives that could scrape the wood.
Should I get a teak table with a finished or unfinished look?
This is up to personal preference! Unfinished teak grays naturally to a silvery-white tone. But finished teak maintains its rich warm brown color. Finishing also offers more stain and moisture protection. Both have their appeal, so choose the look you like and your maintenance level.
Are attached benches or separate benches better?
Another personal choice! Attached benches are traditional and provide built-in seating. But separate benches can be rearranged or removed when not needed. Portable benches also fold and stow more compactly. Consider your space and needs. Some prefer the stability of attached, while others like the flexibility of moveable benches.
What are good teak picnic table options for small patios?
For small spaces, look for compact 4-6 person teak tables that extend under 60”. Square or round tables take up less room than rectangles. You could also choose folding teak tables that can be stowed away between uses. And separate benches that tuck in neatly can maximize a smaller footprint.
How can I prevent warping or cupping of the table?
The best way is to make sure your teak picnic table is properly sealed or finished prior to exposure to outdoor elements. Teak is naturally resistant, but finishing gives added protection against moisture incursion that leads to warping. Ensure it has proper drainage so water does not puddle on the surface. And keep the tabletop cleanly wiped after any spills or rain.
What’s the best way to store a teakwood picnic table in winter or off-season?
Look for a sheltered, covered area like a shed, garage or breezeway to keep your table out of the elements. Make sure it sits elevated and flat, not at an angle or on damp ground. You can also use a fitted vinyl cover or waterproof tarp to protect the table from snow, ice, and cold winds. Proper storage will prolong its lifespan exponentially.
We hope these teakwood picnic table tips and nuggets of wisdom help you select the perfect table for making magical outdoor memories for years to come. Teak furniture is an investment, but with proper care it returns the favor with timeless beauty and daily enjoyment.
Finding Outdoor Dining Bliss with the Perfect Teak Table
There’s nothing better than dining al fresco on a gorgeous day surrounded by fresh air, nature’s beauty, and loved ones. And finding that perfect picnic table to call your outdoor dining home is a decision that will reward you for years to come.
Hopefully this comprehensive guide offered everything you need to know to choose the ideal teakwood picnic table for your home and family. From deciding on the perfect size, design and features, to options for every budget, to pro care tips – you’re ready to invest in an outdoor dining staple that will only get better with time.
Here’s to many seasons ahead gathering for delicious eats and meaningful conversations around your handsome teakwood table! May it be the backdrop for celebrations, casual meals, and quality time spent soaking up the little joys in life.