teak furniture - ok to leave out over winter?

[iheartruby]

I bought a teak set this summer and wondered if it will be ok to leave out over winter, because I don't have room in the shed for the table, plus it's extremely heavy. I have covered the top - do I need to cover the bottom too - ie, will it soak up water? It has been treated with teak oil 4 times so far. I have noticed the chairs have started to discolour but I can put them in the shed.
Thanks in advance.

[Clanad]

One of the real advantages to teak is it's wheathering ability. It's used on sea going boats, I'm sure you know. Whether or not you shed the pieces, teak still needs refinishing almost every year... at least every two years if wish it to keep the natural, dark mahogany color. Otherwise, it will produce a grey color, somewhat like cedar that's left to wheather. There are some really good, durable finishes for teak these days. Most, like myself, still opt for teak oil, with tung oil or linseed a close second.
Be sure to thoroughly clean and prepare the surface, removing all dirt, wax and previous sealer. Be sure it's ultra-dry and give it at least two coats, more's better... Best of luck!

[ceejay123]

Hi,
I leave mine outside for same reasons and in spring as it gets warmer i "power wash" them which really gets the crap off. Leave 'em to dry and "larrup" 'em with lots of Teak Oil.
Great Job!!

[ethandron]

we leave our teak furniture outside over winter with covers over it. i never actually use any oil or product on it as i really like the way it weathers to a nice grey, a bit like weathered oak.