BARE MAHOGANY

CARING FOR MAHOGANY FURNITURE

Mahogany furniture can be allowed to turn silver gray or periodically coated with wood preservative or teak oil to help maintain the original wood color. This option requires regular attention.

A natural characteristic of bare mahogany is its red pigment. When new furniture gets wet, the red pigment washes from the wood, eventually turning the wood gray. The pigment that washes from the wood can temporarily discolor surfaces that it comes in contact with (such as cushions and patios). If the discolored areas are hard and nonporous, they can be wiped clean with soap and water or using a product called----. If they are porous, such as fabrics and some exterior stone surfaces, the red pigment can penetrate making the surface difficult to clean. Therefore, we recommend removing any cushions prior to rainy weather and placing the furniture on nonporous surfaces until the wood starts to turn gray.

Whether you are allowing your furniture to weather or are maintaining the original wood color periodic cleaning is recommended. First smooth the surface with a light sanding using 120-grit sandpaper. The surface can then be cleaned by using a quality wood cleaner available at marinas and most hardware stores. Also available is TSP (trisodium phosphate – available at any hardware store). Follow the instructions for mildew removal on the box of TSP.

Seasoned Wood
The “Seasoned wood” option is not a finish, but a treatment to the wood that converts the natural red wood pigment to a grayish color. This option is considered when trying to match new wood to that which is already naturally seasoned or the desire to accelerate the seasoning or weathering effect. One of the many advantages is reducing the red pigment that can stain light surfaces when new. Care and maintenance is the same as bare mahogany. Be aware that aggressive sanding will remove the “seasoned” grey wood effect.

Oiled finishes
Weatherend uses teak oil for an oiled finish, which is available at most hardware stores. To reapply follow the instructions of the manufacturer for best results. All surfaces must be clean, sound, dry and free of any dirt, dust, other oils, grease and mildew. If unwanted graying or blackening has occurred due to mildew buildup or algae, this must be removed prior to reapplication of tung oil following the information above. Reapplication may be necessary as often as two times a year, especially on table tops, to maintain a brighter finish.

Covers are available that will help extend the life of the furniture. Dry storage is recommended for periods when the furniture is not in use.

Please contact us at 800.456.6483 or sales@weatherend.com for more information.