When comparing luxury furniture, one product stands out above all others — teak wood furniture. For centuries, teak wood has been used to build structures and furniture for the elite, as a status symbol. This is because it is one of the most durable, long-lasting, and beautiful woods that make it as functional as it is gorgeous. Many people, upon their first encounter with this fine wood, have many questions. We would like the time to answer some of the most common questions that are asked about teak wood.

Where does teak wood come from?

Teak wood comes from the tropical hardwood tree, Tectona grandis, which is native to south and southeast Asia in India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Burma. These tropical beasts grow to be more than 130 feet tall.

What is teak wood better for than other woods?

While there are many fine, durable, beautiful woods, none hold a candle to teak. Teak has a very high natural oil content which makes it almost decay-resistant, which is something that no other wood can boast. Because of the high oil content, teak is essentially waterproof and does not crack or warp due to damp climates. Teak is resistant to termites and other wood pests, which makes it ideal for projects that are usually vulnerable to termite infestation. Teak also gets to brag that it doesn’t crack or turn colors when exposed to metals, which makes it great for building long-lasting furniture. Teak wood has been used to build boat decks — rather, battleships — for centuries because of its water resistance and strength. Today, teak is used anywhere that any other wood is, and is popular for creating bath, spa, and pool furniture because it allows the natural look of wood without the weathered appearance or swelling that other woods take on when exposed to humid environments.

How is teak turned into lumber?

Many Asian countries, where teak is native, have established government-managed teak plantations that manage the growth and use of the teak wood. Trees that are between 40 and 80 years old provide the best quality wood, and are also full grown, so they supply the most lumber. Young trees tend to be softer, and the quality of the furniture that is produced from it will reflect the immaturity of the tree. Once the trees are chopped down, they must dry for one to two years before they are cut into lumber and then fabricated into boat decks or furniture.

Teak wood is one of the finest hardwoods available. Because it is only available in a small part of the world and the age of the tree has to be so great to produce ideal wood, it has become a wood that is exclusive to those who can afford it. While the price tag for teak wood furniture may be a little higher than other hardwood furniture, it is because it is almost indestructible and so durable that it will likely outlast its owner! Teak wood does not need to be stained or wax-coat finished and only requires a teak oil rub to regain its original beauty. Teak furniture can be placed anywhere, inside or out, and will weather well. If you are interested in owning a piece of this luxury wood, shop our environmentally-friendly collection at AquaTeak today!