January 6, 2025

What are Teak Shower Seats?

Teak shower seats are seats or benches made from teak wood, specifically designed for use in showers. They offer a blend of functionality and aesthetics, making them a very popular choice. See our full Q&A about teak shower seats below.

What are teak shower seats made of?

Teak shower seats, as the name suggests, are made from teak wood. Teak is a tropical hardwood known for its exceptional durability, weather resistance, and natural oils that repel water and mold. While teak wood forms the main structure of the seat, additional components such as stainless steel hardware and rubber feet are used to create the backside of the shower seat which is mounted to the wall and the legs of the shower seat.

Where are teak shower seats made?

Teak shower seats are made in wood mills. Teak is known for its aesthetically pleasing millwork design throughout the surface and around the sides and corners of the shower seat. This is one of teak shower seats’ unique qualities as compared to other materials.

How are teak shower seats constructed?

The teak wood is cut and sized to the proper dimensions and thickness of the shower seat and then the edges and corners are sanded down. The key elements of the construction of teak shower seats are the solid teak wood and the robust stainless steel hardware, which ensure stability and structural integrity of the shower seat.

How long do teak shower seats last?

With proper care, teak shower seats can last for decades without needing to be replaced. Teak shower seats are worthy investments known for their durability and long-lasting lifespan, especially when compared to other shower seat materials that are less suited for wet environments. Proper care of teak shower seats is the most crucial element to maximizing their longevity.

Are teak shower seats safe?

Yes, teak shower seats are considered to be safe for people of all ages and abilities. Teak’s natural anti-slip properties provide increased grip when wet, minimizing the risk of falls. Teak also offers slip resistance, mold & mildew resistance, high durability, a high weight capacity and is naturally sturdy and secure when properly mounted to the shower wall.

Are teak shower seats water-resistant?

Yes, teak shower seats are highly water resistant! The high oil content in teak wood naturally repels water, preventing the teak from soaking in water and causing rotting or warping. These natural oils also provide a protective barrier against moisture and humidity, which are highly common in bathrooms. Also, teak is a dense hardwood with a tight grain structure, making it less porous than other types of wood. This further restricts water absorption and contributes to its water resistance.

Are teak shower seats durable?

Yes, teak shower seats are very durable, especially when compared to other shower seat materials. Teak is naturally resilient as it is a dense hardwood with a tight grain structure, making it highly resistant to scratches, dents and wear & tear. Teak’s natural water resistance, mold & mildew resistance, density and structural integrity all contribute to its high durability and long-lasting nature.

Are mold & mildew common on teak shower seats?

No, teak’s natural oils inhibit the growth of mold & mildew, which is a common challenge in wet environments such as showers. Teak’s high oil content, dense & tight wood grain and antimicrobial properties all contribute to the mold & mildew resistance of teak shower seats. However, growth of mold & mildew is not entirely impossible in a wet environment, such as a shower. Poor bathroom ventilation, lack of maintenance and cleaning and prolonged exposure to standing water could contribute to signs of mold & mildew.

Are teak shower seats low maintenance?

Yes, teak shower seats are considered relatively low maintenance compared to other shower seat materials in a wet environment; however, they still require some upkeep for optimal performance and longevity. The low maintenance aspects of teak shower seats include their natural water resistance, mold & mildew resistance and durability. While all shower seats will require occasional cleaning and maintenance, the natural properties and minimal upkeep of teak shower seats makes them a great long-lasting choice for wet environments.

Are teak shower seats slippery?

No, teak’s natural oils and anti-slip properties provide increased grip when wet, minimizing the risk of falls. Of course, if there is standing water on the shower seat, it can become slippery; however, compared with other shower seat materials, teak is known for being less slippery.

Can teak shower seats be used indoors and outdoors?

Yes, teak shower seats can be used both indoors and outdoors! This versatility is one of their key advantages. The teak wood’s natural properties make them a great choice for use indoors and these properties combined with their UV-resistance and weather resistance make them a great choice for outdoors as well. Teak maintains its color even under sunlight exposure and its natural oils and dense wood resist warping, cracking and splitting even in sunlight, rain and temperature changes.

Can teak shower seats be used in residential and commercial bathrooms?

Yes! Teak shower seats can be used in both commercial and residential bathrooms and showers. Teak is known for being an aesthetically pleasing warm tone, which makes it a very popular choice for residential homes. Many teak shower seats are also ADA compliant, making them a great choice for commercial bathrooms that are seeking to impress guests, such as hotels, spas, clubs, etc. 

What are the different styles of teak shower seats?

Teak shower seats are available in 3 different styles: wall mounted (most cost effective), wall mounted + legs (most expensive), and designer wall mounted (most high-end)

     

  • Teak wall mounted is a folding teak shower seat mounted to the shower wall that can be folded upward and remain stowed in a raised position when not in use. 
  • Teak wall mounted + legs is a folding teak shower seat mounted to the shower wall with fold down legs that create additional weight capacity support. 
  • Teak designer wall mounted is a folding teak shower seat that has a teak back which provides additional comfort and back support when sitting. This seat can also be folded up and stowed in a raised position when not in use.

How do I install wall-mounted teak shower seats?

You can install teak shower seats yourself or you can hire a professional installer to mount it to your shower wall. Teak shower seats from GrabBars.com each come with a mounting hardware kit including all of the stainless steel screws you will need to properly mount your shower seat. When mounting, you’ll need to ensure you locate wall studs and drill into these studs as this will provide the weight capacity support for the users. Remember that proper installation is crucial for the shower seat’s safety and stability!

How do I clean a teak shower seat?

Cleaning teak shower seats is a fairly simple process. After each use, you should rinse any soap scum and debris off of the shower seat. Every 2-4 weeks, you should use a mild soap and water solution to wipe down the shower seat with a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive cleaning materials as these can scratch and damage the teak wood surface. Allow your teak shower seat to dry completely after cleaning and never leave it standing in water. Regular cleaning and proper care will keep your teak shower seats looking their best for many years to come!

Do teak shower seats need to be re-oiled?

No, teak shower seats do not have to be re-oiled; however, re-oiling can offer several benefits depending on your preferences and the condition of your teak shower seat. Re-oiling is not necessary for the shower seat’s functionality; however, if you are hoping to preserve the golden-brown color of the teak wood, further enhance its water resistance, prevent dryness and cracking and/or increase its longevity, you may want to consider re-oiling your teak shower seat.

Are teak shower seats expensive?

Yes, teak shower seats can be more expensive than other material types. If you value quality, durability, and natural beauty, and are willing to invest in a long-lasting shower seat, then teak is a great choice. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more basic shower seat, then a different option may be a more cost-effective choice.

Are teak shower seats ADA compliant?

Some, but not all, teak shower seats are ADA compliant. It depends on their design, dimensions, and installation specifications. Overall, teak shower seats offer a durable and aesthetic option for bathrooms requiring ADA compliance. By choosing the right design, ensuring correct installation, and considering additional safety features, you can create a safe and functional shower space for everyone.

What is the weight capacity of teak shower seats?

The weight capacity of all teak shower seats varies depending on a couple of factors. Typically, wall mounted teak shower seats will have a higher weight capacity of up to 300-500 pounds due to their stability and secure attachment to the wall. Freestanding shower seats will generally have a lower weight capacity since they are not securely attached to the shower wall. The wall mounted and wall mounted + legs teak shower seats on GrabBars.com both have high weight capacities of up to 400 pounds.

Why should I choose a teak shower seat?

There are many reasons why you should consider purchasing a teak shower seat! The key benefits of the teak wood include its natural water resistance, density, strength, sturdiness, mold & mildew resistance, warm & aesthetically pleasing appearance and minimal upkeep & maintenance. Teak shower seats are considered to be a bit more upscale looking than solid plastic, padded or phenolic shower seats and they are a great addition to any residential or commercial bathroom. Overall, if you’re looking for a beautiful, durable, and comfortable shower seat that will last for many years, a teak shower seat is a worthwhile investment. With proper care, you can enjoy its benefits and enhance your bathroom experience for a long time.

Take a look at all of our teak shower seats here: Teak Shower Seats

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