True Burma teak has a uniform dark golden-brown heartwood, free from markings and darkens to a mid to dark brown on exposure. Most teak is a dark golden-yellow. The distinctive narrow to medium-width sapwood is white to pale yellow. The grain is typically straight but sometimes wavy, with a coarse, uneven texture and an oily feel. Teak is considered by many to be the ultimate wood. It is very durable, great to work with, finishes well and is very attractive. In recent years it has become increasing challenging to source due to, understandable and vital, restrictions on how it is harvested. This has resulted in considerable price increases. Teak is therefore expensive compared to other durable hardwoods but some would argue that is worth the investment for its superior quality. Often used for high-end furniture for both interior and exterior use, plus for decking and cladding
Further reading on Teak timber:
If you would like to read a full profile specification on Teak timber, please visit our sister site, Any One wood, The online wood reference database. https://www.anyonewood.com/teak/
Material Type:
Hardwood
Also Called:
Burma Teak,Mai Sak, Djati, Sagwan, Tegina, Tekku, Jati Sak, Gia Thi, Rosawa, Tik
Durability Notes:
Teak very durable and resistant to termites and fungi. The sapwood is vulnerable to the powder-post beetle. The heartwood is highly resistant to preservation treatment although the sapwood is moderately resistant. Some say Teak is the ultimate wood - durable, attractive and works well.
Seasoning:
The drying and seasoning of Teak is dependant on a number of factors; the speed in which it is processed after felling and logging, the method of drying and the specific kilns or location (if air dried). Generally the care taken by those processing the wood will have an impact on its drying and seasoning. As an overview; Teak - The wood dries slowly but well, though there can be large variations in drying rates. There is small movement in use. Please note that all wood is liable to move when in service plus there can be dimensional change. The extent of this will depend on; the stability of the species itself, the conditions it is exposed to, the coating, decoration and protection. You will find more information about the suitability of this wood, for any proposed application, by using our interactive system and the filters shown.
Properties:
Teak is a hard, medium-density wood, strong and durable. Teak is naturally acid and fire-resistant. The wood is relatively easy to work with both hand and machine tools but does have a blunting effect on tools due to its silica content. Pre-drilling is advised for nails and screws. Provided cutters are kept sharp, it drills, carves, turns and moulds well. It can be brought to a good finish and paints, varnishes, oils and stains well.
Typical Uses:
Domestic, outdoor and office furniture joinery, flooring, kitchen cabinets, harbour works, boat and ship building, oars, decking, laboratory benches, vats, plywood and decorative veneers.
Spiritual Properties:
Teak is said have the mystical properties of the khodam spirit which resides in the sacred tree. Teak wood emits auspicious energies and blessings. Teak wood is considered holy wood. It is said to have healing properties.
Moisture Content:
12-18% KD
Sustainability:
Although this particular species has not been fully assessed by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species a close relative - Philippine Teak is considered as critically endangered and in our industry Burma Teak has become increasingly challenging and expensive to source indicating that this too could be considered in the same category (Philippine Teak was last assessed in 1998 and considerable changes in awareness and more stringent forestry controls may have had an impact and the results of the latest assessment is due soon) for more information and latest updates please visit http://www.iucnredlist.org and type in the botanical name of the species into the search box. It should also be noted that one unintentional shortcoming of the Red List is that it only considers the risk of extinction; broader issues dealing with habitat destruction or deforestation are not considered. Also, it does not necessarily take into account the maturity of the trees (i.e., centuries-old trees are cut down, and subsequently replanted with saplings) Therefore we hope that further assessments will consider this long term commitment to re-growth.
Wood Worker's Thoughts:
Extremely expensive due to tight restrictions on foresting. Silt or grit can be apparent in the timber blunting cutters and chisels. Finishes well and is naturally oily. Used for 'high end' external furniture and decking. Would recommend more environmentally friendly alternatives such as Accoya, Iroko
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