Furniture care

Material Information + Care Instructions

 Teak Weave Metal Sling Knit Braid

After more then 20 years servicing Residential and Commercial clients in Hawaii, we only utilize materials that last in the harsh Hawaiian climate.

Teak - Background information & care suggestions.

Our teak is plantation harvested premium hardwood.

Teak is a close-grained hardwood with a high natural oil content. This makes it hard wearing, highly resistant to decay, and almost impervious to the effects of sun, rain, frost, or snow. Like a good wine, teak actually improves with age. Even in our Hawaiian climates with its constant sun and at times pounding rain, teak endures a long life while gradually fading to a soft silvery grey color as it naturally settles into its environment. For those, however, who prefer to retain the warm golden brown color of new teak, we offer a full range of teak care options and products (see below).

Natural means little-to-no maintenance required.

The pale blonde coloring of new teak will gradually change to a silver grey patina over time. Many people prefer this natural silver-grey color as it blends naturally into the surrounding environment — in which case all that is required is simple periodic cleaning of the furniture when needed with a soft brush, mild soap, and water. Initially, natural teak will absorb watermarks and oils that may be inadvertently left on it, however these marks will fade over time as the teak itself is left to naturally weather.

Finishing teak

Finishes only act to maintain the aesthetic effect of new teak; they are not required to maintain the strength and durability of the wood itself. The inherent oiliness and density of teak is the reason it can outlast even synthetic materials in the outdoor environment.

There are two reasons to finish teak:

  1. To preserve the original golden color of new teak when left exposed to the elements, and
  2. To minimize the effects of accidental food and drink stains.

Some people prefer the color of new teak to the natural silvery patina of aged teak. With today’s technology, there are products available to repel the effects of UV and precipitation while preserving the golden color of new teak without the complications associated with the oiled finishes of the past. Especially in Hawaii’s humid climate, oiled finishes tend to trap moisture on the surface of the wood thereby aiding in mold and mildew growth. We use water-based finishes for a variety of reasons — easy to apply, non-toxic, longer lasting, breathable finish, and better for the environment.

Other finishes

We do not recommend oiling, painting or varnishing teak. Paint may not adhere properly due to teak’s high oil content, and normal varnishes require constant maintenance to prevent cracking and peeling with exposure to the elements unless they are designed specifically for outdoor use. Even traditional oils have been found to be problematic in our humid Hawaiian climate, trapping moisture underneath and causing mold and mildew to appear. Instead we routinely recommend water-based treatments, which allow the teak to breathe while preserving its golden hues.

There are times that a sturdier finish is required or when the color of teak needs to be altered for aesthetic reasons. In these cases we offer Premium Grade water-based finishes which feature UV inhibitors for outdoor use and are available in a variety of different tones. This product is great for Commercial applications, such as frequently cleaned tabletops and high traffic furniture. These finishes are available in a variety of stained colors. Note that versus the matte finish of natural or water-base finished teak, petroleum-based finishes appears slightly glossy.

Teak Care Instructions

Stain removal

Stains on natural teak will gradually fade over time with exposure to the elements. However, if one wishes to remove stains quickly, or to return a weathered piece to its original coloring, first clean the teak with a mild soap and water or a biodegradable teak cleaning product. Light sanding will remove scratches or light stains. Next, apply a brightening solution to restore weathered grey teak back to its original blonde color. This solution will also aid in removing any mold and mildew from the surface. The wood will lighten where it is applied; over time, the teak will weather to an even hue.

Liquid stains

Teak is a timber, therefore the cells are open. Although the application of a water-based finish will repel the effects of UV and give some protection to liquids, we recommend the use of our Teak Shield product to fully protect against food and drink stains. A naturally water-based and totally solvent-free application, Teak Shield provides is an invisible wood impregnator that makes it difficult for most spills to seep into the teak. Once applied, the surfaces can be simply wiped with a damp cloth to clean. Can be used on natural teak as well, where liquid but not UV protection is required.

or Simply leave it to us.

Even with the best of intentions, all of us find ourselves with limited time to handle it all. If you find yourself needing our help, we are happy to offer Spa Treatments for your teak. Whether it be periodic finishing to maintain the original golden color of your teak, or the dramatic restoration from heavily weathered and silvered teak back to its as-new golden tones, we can offer you a service that meets your need. Please contact us for more information.

All Weather Weave - Background information & care suggestions.

All woven fibers are not created equal. Most inexpensive weaves are made from polypropelene and, with exposure to UV, it will fade, crack and fail.

Our woven furniture is made from High Density Polyethelene Resin and branded under various trade names such as “Hularo”, “Viro” etc.. This highest quality resin fibre is through-dyed, and then handwoven on powder-coated aluminium frames. This beautiful fiber is not only UV and weather resistant, but also 100% recyclable and non-toxic, making it a greener solution for outdoor living. Needless to say it is also elegant enough for indoor use.

Our fiber is resistant to sun, rain, salt and chlorine and will stand up to food and drink spills.

To main the highest of quality standards, our furniture is all handwoven, ensuring a uniform tightness is attained

 

Weave Care Instructions

While this durable material will not mildew, contaminants on its surface could
accumulate and foster mildew growth, so regular cleaning is necessary for this virtually maintenance-free material.

Wash it with a non-abrasive soap and water solution and a soft cloth, then dry with a soft towel or let air-dry.

Where moving parts exist (for example a back rest for a chaise recliner), periodically check for looseness in hardware, and apply a dry silicone lubricant.

Sling - Background information & care suggestions.

We use a multidrectional material for our sling made by Ferarri, called Batyline
 
The Batyline range has been an industry reference for outdoor furniture for over 30 years.
 

Advantages of Batyline Sling

  • Extreme outdoor resistance with no sag.
  • Reversible warp and weft
  • Very transparent and lightweight

Batyline fabrics make light, durable and elegant sling and upholstered seats. Available in a wide range of colors, weaves and textures for adaptation to any design. The material of choice when long-term performance and beauty are sought.

Sling Care Instructions

These are virtually maintenance free under normal conditions.

Wash it with a non-abrasive soap and water solution and a soft cloth, then dry with a soft towel or let air-dry.

Metal (Aluminum/Stainless Steel/Steel) - Background information & care suggestions.

Aluminum (frames, furniture) The most common metal for outdoor furniture due to durability, non-corrosive features, and light weight. For additional on from the elements, the aluminum frames are never exposed, completely covered by the Viro weave.

Stainless steel (swing arm, chaises) – Our stainless steel is 304 grade, generally regarded as the most common austenitic stainless steel. It contains high nickel content that is typically between 8 and 10.5 percent by weight and a high amount of chromium at approximately 18 to 20 percent by weight. The high amounts of chromium and nickel give 304 stainless steel excellent corrosion resistance.

What is stainless steel?  Stainless steel is the generic name for a number of different steels used primarily for their resistance to corrosion.  The term “stainless” implies a resistance to staining, rusting and pitting.  Stainless steel generally has a higher resistance to the effects of exposure. However, stainless steel performs best when clean.  Cleanliness is essential for the optimal resistance to corrosion.

The unique advantage of stainless steel.   The success of stainless steel is based on the fact that the chromium in the stainless steel has a great affinity for oxygen, and will form on the surface of the steel at a molecular level a film of chromium oxide.  This layer is described as passive, tenacious and self renewing. Passive means that it does not react or influence other materials; tenacious means that it clings to the layer of steel and is not transferred elsewhere; self renewing means that if damaged or forcibly removed more chromium from the steel will be exposed to the air and form more chromium oxide. This means that over a period of years a stainless steel knife can literally be worn away by daily use and by being re-sharpened on a sharpening stone and will still remain stainless.

Metal Routine Cleaning

In normal exterior applications stainless steel should be washed once or twice per year. In Hawaii, where exposure to ocean air, high temperatures, and high humidity exist, washing three or four times per year may be required to maintain the aesthetic standard.

  • Clean the surface by wiping or brushing with a detergent solution
  • Rinse with water at ambient temperature
  • Dry using a hand towel.

If heavier soiling has occurred and “flying rust” has appeared, a very effective cleanser for stainless steel is Bar Keepers Friend, a scouring powder that is readily available in most grocery and hardware stores.  Other cleansers, which are still effective, but less aggressive include Comet, Shiny Sinks Plus, Luneta, Soft Scrub, Mr. Clean and Flitz.  Apply with a soft sponge rather than abrasive products such as steel wool pads, as these may scratch off the protective layer of chromium oxide.

After cleaning, an option application of a sealant or an oil (any type will do) on the stainless steel can delay the effects of any pollution and provide additional protection.

Knit - Background information & care suggestions.

Our Manicotti collection utilizes our specialized weaving technique to create a striking new knitted look.

The extra large vertical fibers are created by using 100% Solution Dyed Olefin outdoor fabric which covers poly-fill tubes and is constructed without any visible joints.

A unique product with a natural and soft appearance, while being waterproof.

The material is mold resistant, stain repellent and does not fade.

Knit Care Instructions

Rinse the braiding regularly with clean water. Always rinse the furniture with clean water after treatment with cleaning agents.

To further improve and increase the repellent properties, we recommend the application of our Fabric Protector. Application of this will help reduce the effect of drink & food stains, letting it look like new for longer.

Simply reapply once of twice a year.

Cord - Background information & care suggestions.

Our rope is handwoven polyolefin. Although man made, it still retains a natural look & feel. The polyester core inside, gives an almost unbreakable strength. On the outside is has a blend of natural and synthetic materials, giving resistance against all weather conditions (UV/salt/mildew).

The furniture is hand woven – no two pieces are ever alike. The unique craft appearance is part and parcel of the personality of the product and cannot be regarded as being defective.

 

Cord Care Instructions

Rinse the cording regularly with clean water. Always rinse the furniture with clean water after treatment with cleaning agents.

To further improve and increase the repellent properties, we recommend the application of our Fabric Protector. Application of this will help reduce the effect of drink & food stains, letting it look like new for longer.

Simply reapply once of twice a year

Braid - Background information & care suggestions.

Again, like our rope/cording, our webbing utilizes a polyester core to provides strength and stability, while the combination of natural and synthetic fibers (polyolefin) creates a surprisingly soft look and touch, ensuring resistance to all outside influences: water, mold and UV.

Braid Care Instructions

Rinse the webbing regularly with clean water. Always rinse the furniture with clean water after treatment with cleaning agents.

To further improve and increase the repellent properties, we recommend the application of our Fabric Protector. Application of this will help reduce the effect of drink & food stains, letting it look like new for longer.

Simply reapply once of twice a year.