Crafted from durable, Earthy-friendly eucalyptus hardwood, this furniture is intended for outdoor use in all weather. A beautiful hardwood comparable to teak and with excellent weather-resistant properties, eucalyptus is dense and naturally resistant to rot and insect infestation. Certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), there is no doubt about the responsible production and consumption of this wood. The rapid growth of eucalyptus trees makes them more readily available and more easily affordable. In addition, furniture constructed of eucalyptus is light enough to move easily and requires no oiling unless to maintain a desired look.

Left untreated, eucalyptus will weather when exposed to the elements, turning a soft shade of silver/gray similar to the weathering of teak. In addition, when untreated, natural splitting or cracks will appear, but this will not affect the durability of the furniture. To guard against this weathering process and to maintain a desired look, apply coats of a hardwood oil. The frequency of necessary oil applications depends on the intensity of the outdoor elements. The furniture has already been oiled prior to packing, and it is recommended that an oil treatment be repeated at least once a year. Giving the furniture an extra treatment before exposing to rain will prolong the “new” look and ensure a longer life.

After eucalyptus furniture has weathered, it can be restored if desired by sanding down the surface, cleaning it, and then applying oil to prevent more weathering. To clean it, mix one tablespoon of bleach, five tablespoons of a gentle dishwashing liquid, and a gallon of water, and gently scrub the mixture on the surface of the wood with a soft bristle brush. Rinse the solution from the furniture, and allow it to dry completely in the sun. Developed for use in high humidity, the furniture is best not stored in centrally heated areas, as that could lead to excessive drying out of the wood.

Wood that becomes saturated with water and left over an extended period without drying out is more likely to warp and rot. The bases of furniture legs are probably the most vulnerable when it comes to water damage. If wood furniture is kept in the grass, at the poolside, or on a surface that collects rain water, the legs can become saturated. Covering the bottoms of each leg with rubberized material or small sections of cedar fencing material will help protect furniture from rotting from the bottom up.

Strathwood furniture has quality, ease of use, and casual elegance at its core. Each piece is rigorously tested for durability, and assembly instructions have been standardized for simplicity from start to finish. Strathwood furniture is sleekly designed, handsomely finished, and built to last. This classic style and reliable craftsmanship will weather ever-changing trends and regular use for years to come.