What is Shorea wood?
Shorea is a heavy tropical hard wood comparable to teak. Because of its high oil content, shorea easily sheds water making it highly resistant to rotting. Also highly resistant to bug infestation, this dense wood makes excellent outdoor furniture. Moderate checking in the grain is normal with weathering and many prefer the beautiful weathered silver gray color, which happens naturally.
Does the wood need to be finished?
Staining, or finishing shorea wood is not necessary. It will weather naturally to a beautiful silver gray over the course of about two years. If the original warm brown color is preferred, teak oil can be applied seasonally to maintain the color. Teak Protector is another option to help to protect and preserve the color.
Painting or using polyurethane is NOT recommended. Because of the high oil content of the wood, it will not easily take paint. To achieve a painted product, start with a bonding primer and finish with a coat of paint. Do not apply any kind of hard varnish directly to the wood.
