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Teak (Tectona grandis) Hardwood
Teak (Tectona grandis) is legendary among hardwoods — the gold standard for marine applications and outdoor furniture worldwide. Wild-harvested teak contains exceptionally high natural oil and rubber ...
Janka Hardness
1,070 lbf
Weather Resistance
Exceptional
Lifespan
50+ years
Density
40 lbs/ft³
What Is Teak Wood?
Teak (Tectona grandis) is legendary among hardwoods — the gold standard for marine applications and outdoor furniture worldwide. Wild-harvested teak contains exceptionally high natural oil and rubber content that makes it virtually impervious to water, rot, and insects without any chemical treatment.
With origins in Southeast Asia, wild-harvested Teak has been used for centuries in shipbuilding, from ancient Burmese royal barges to modern luxury yachts. Its natural oils create a built-in barrier against moisture penetration, making it uniquely suited for constant water exposure — a property that plantation-grown teak cannot fully replicate.
Teak features a beautiful golden-brown color that weathers to an iconic silver-gray patina. It's one of the few woods that can be left completely untreated outdoors and still last 50+ years. Its moderate hardness (1,070 lbf Janka) makes it easy to work while still providing excellent durability. Note: We source wild-harvested teak only, not plantation-grown, ensuring superior oil content, density, and long-term performance.
Key Facts
- Highest natural oil content of any hardwood — exceptional water resistance
- Wild-harvested only (not plantation) for maximum durability and oil content
- Industry standard for marine/boat building applications
- Naturally resistant to rot, decay, insects, and acids
- Can be left untreated outdoors with no structural degradation
- Beautiful golden-brown color ages to iconic silver patina
Why Choose Teak?
Unmatched Water Resistance
Natural oils repel water without treatment — the only hardwood that can claim this level of moisture resistance
Marine Heritage
Centuries of proven performance in shipbuilding, from ancient vessels to modern luxury yachts
Zero Maintenance Required
Can be left completely untreated outdoors and still last 50+ years without structural degradation
Beautiful Aging
Develops the iconic silver-gray patina prized in nautical and outdoor design
Easy to Work
Moderate density makes cutting, shaping, and fastening easier than ultra-dense species like Ipe
Acid & Chemical Resistant
Natural compounds resist damage from acids, alkalis, and salt water environments
Common Applications
Teak is well-suited for a range of interior and exterior applications.
Boat Building & Marine
Decks, planking, trim, and structural components for vessels of all sizes
Outdoor Furniture
Chairs, tables, benches — the premium choice for lasting outdoor furniture
Decking
Pool decks, patios, and boardwalks where water exposure is constant
Indoor Flooring
Premium interior flooring with exceptional warmth and beauty
Bathroom & Wet Areas
Shower benches, bath mats, vanities — ideal for moisture-rich environments
Exterior Joinery
Windows, doors, and garden structures requiring weather resistance
Teak by Application
Learn how Teak performs across different project types.
Teak Decking
Teak decking is the ultimate choice for pool surrounds, waterfront properties, and luxury outdoor living spaces where water exposure is constant. Its unmatched natural oil content repels water without any chemical treatment — a property no other decking species can match. Teak deck boards stay dimensionally stable through wet-dry cycles, resist mildew and marine organisms, and develop the iconic silver-gray patina that defines nautical luxury. At 1,070 lbf Janka, teak provides sufficient hardness for residential foot traffic while being easier to cut and fasten than ultra-dense species like Ipe. For homeowners who want zero-maintenance performance with premium aesthetics, wild-harvested teak decking delivers 50+ years of effortless beauty.
Explore all decking optionsTeak Outdoor Furniture
Teak is the undisputed gold standard for outdoor furniture worldwide — from bistro sets to luxury resort loungers. Its exceptional natural oils mean teak furniture can be left completely untreated in rain, snow, and sun for decades without structural deterioration. The wood's moderate density makes it comfortable for seating while remaining strong enough for heavy commercial use. Teak furniture develops the signature silver patina that defines coastal and resort-style living, or can be oiled annually to maintain its warm golden-brown color. No other furniture wood combines this level of weather resistance, beauty, and longevity.
Explore all outdoor furniture optionsTeak Marine & Boat Building
Teak has been the world's premier boat-building wood for centuries — from ancient Burmese royal barges to modern mega-yachts. Its natural oils resist salt water, acids, marine organisms, and UV degradation simultaneously. Teak decking on boats provides a non-slip surface when wet, and its dimensional stability prevents the buckling and checking that plague lesser woods in marine environments. For structural components, planking, trim, and cockpit floors, wild-harvested teak's density and oil content provide performance that plantation-grown material cannot match. It's the only wood trusted for the world's finest vessels.
Explore all marine & boat building optionsInstallation & Working Tips
- Pre-drill recommended but not always required due to moderate density
- Use stainless steel or bronze fasteners for marine and exterior applications
- Natural oils may inhibit glue adhesion — lightly sand surfaces before gluing and use epoxy-based adhesives
- Allow freshly cut surfaces to oxidize for 24 hours before applying finish for best adhesion
- Wipe surfaces with acetone before finishing to remove excess surface oils
- Teak dust can be irritating — wear a dust mask when machining
For complete guidance, see our installation guide and custom milling services.
Maintenance & Care
Teak is one of the lowest-maintenance hardwoods available. It requires zero treatment for structural protection and can be left completely natural outdoors.
Leave Natural
Many teak owners prefer the natural silver-gray patina that develops over time. This weathering does not affect durability whatsoever. Simply clean periodically with mild soap and water.
Maintain Golden Color
To preserve teak's golden-brown color, apply a teak-specific UV oil 1-2 times per year. Avoid teak oil products with linseed oil, which can promote mildew. Use only marine-grade teak oils.
Cleaning
Clean with a specialized teak cleaner or mild soap and water. For gray teak that you want to restore to golden, use a two-part teak cleaner/brightener system. Avoid pressure washing at high settings.
Important Considerations
Premium Pricing
Wild-harvested teak is among the most expensive hardwoods due to limited supply and exceptional quality. Plan budget accordingly.
Plantation vs Wild-Harvested
Plantation teak has significantly less oil content and lower durability. We only source wild-harvested for maximum performance.
Gluing Challenges
High oil content can inhibit glue adhesion. Surface preparation is critical — sand and use epoxy adhesives for reliable bonds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teak
Quick answers to common questions
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