What is teak wood?

August 29, 2023
What is teak wood?

Teak wood. A word that evokes luxury, sustainability and timeless elegance for many. But what exactly is teak wood and why is it so popular in the world of interior design and outdoor furniture? In this blog we take a closer look at the charms of teak wood and why it is, for example, the ideal choice for your outdoor living space.

Where does teak wood come from?

Before we dive into the properties and applications of teak wood, it is good to know where it comes from. Teak wood comes from the Tectona grandis, a deciduous tree native to Southeast Asia. This tree mainly grows in countries such as India, Myanmar, Thailand and Indonesia. Growing in these tropical environments, the tree has developed unique properties.

The properties of teak wood

What makes it so special and loved? Here are a few reasons:

  1. Sustainability: it contains natural oils that protect it against insects and fungi. This makes the wood particularly durable and resistant to external influences.
  2. Appearance: the rich, golden to medium brown color of teak wood gives it a warm and luxurious appearance. This color can change over time to a silver-gray patina, which also has its own charm.
  3. Courage: Despite its relative lightness, the wood is strong and durable. This makes it ideal for heavy-duty applications such as furniture and floors.

How can you use teak wood?

There are various purposes for which you can use teak wood. A number of them are listed for you below.

Outdoor furniture

This type of wood is excellent for outdoor furniture. For example, think of a beautiful one Ibiza lounge set where you spend the summer evenings. Due to its natural resistance to moisture and insects, this material will last for years without much maintenance. Once installed, you can enjoy your furniture in the garden without any worries. Also take a look here the top 10 nicest Bohemian garden ideas.

Interior design

Within the interior, teak wood is often used for things such as floors, stairs and furniture. It radiates warmth and class and fits perfectly in both modern and traditional interiors. And what do you think? bohemian chairs? Combined with soft cushions and colorful patterns, it is the perfect basis for that relaxed, worldly vibe.

Ship-building

Historically, teak has also been popular in shipbuilding. Its resistance to salt water and its durability make it a top choice for luxury yachts and other boats.

Old vs. new wood

An interesting aspect of this type of wood is that it distinguishes between old and new wood. Old wood, often recycled from old buildings or ships, has a rich history and a unique patina that gives it a special charm. It radiates character and has stories to tell. New wood, on the other hand, has a fresher appearance and can be shaped and treated to your own taste. Both variants have their own advantages and aesthetic values. The old teak wood can give a nostalgic and rustic feeling to a room. On the other hand, the new teak wood offers the opportunity to age over time and develop its own story. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and the specific look you want to achieve.

Maintenance of teak wood

Although teak wood is naturally durable, a little maintenance can keep it in top condition. If you want to maintain the golden glow, you can treat your furniture with a special teak oil. However, do you want that natural, weathered look? Then just leave it to the elements and it will gradually get that silver-gray patina.

Sustainability

While we recognize the beauty and functional benefits of teak wood, it is essential not to overlook the ecological aspects. Teak forests are threatened in some regions by excessive logging. That is why it is crucial to choose teak wood that comes from sustainably managed forests. There are various certifications, such as the FSC quality mark, that guarantee that the wood has been obtained in a responsible manner.

Choose teak wood

In the wonderful world of wood types, teak wood stands head and shoulders above the rest. From its long-lasting properties to timeless beauty, it adds unique character to every piece in which it is used. Hopefully this blog has given you a deeper insight into the versatility of teak wood. Buy yours quickly teak wood furniture!

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