Clearly, we love teak. But we’re not alone.

Teak wood has been in use for more than 2,000 years, and can still be found intact in excavated buildings that are more than 1,000 years old. An archaeological dig in Berenike, even uncovered remnants of a teak ship used in Indian-Roman trade more than 2,000 years ago.

All over the world you will find teak being put to use by shipyards, furniture manufacturers and fine artists.

Teak Holds Up

It’s really no surprise why we think teak is the best option for outdoor furniture, shower stools, and bathroom accessories.

It is beautiful, but that’s not the only reason we love it. Thanks to its pest resistance and natural oils, teak claims the top spot for durability. It stands up to conditions from punishing heat to torrential rains and wind.

Teak is Forever

Thanks to its beauty and durability, teak is often recycled and repurposed. As a matter of fact, if you’ve ever sat in one of the teak benches in a British park, chances are pretty good that you are sitting on a bench that is more than 100 years old and was, in its previous life, part of a British Navy ship. As 19th century British Navy ships came to the end of their useful life, they were often dismantled by hand. Much of that wood ended up in Britain's park benches.

Teak Use Has Evolved Over the Years

Recently, the DIY crowd has begun adopting teak for home projects.

The results for the DIYer are often outstanding, and they can last a lifetime. But the very properties that make it such a great choice can also make it a little tough to work with. Because it is so hard, it can take a quick toll on the average toolset. It's water-resistant properties also make it resistant to other liquids, including wood glue.

DIYers have come to love teak for indoor and outdoor use for the same reasons we do, including because it can be finished and maintained with teak oil. You don’t have to worry about stains or other coatings. For a DIY project where low maintenance is a requirement, you can’t beat teak.

Teak Veneer

Wood veneer has been around for more than 1,000 years. However, throughout the 20th century, it was often used as a cheap replacement for solid wood, and wasn’t a very high-quality product. Recent advances, including significantly increased durability, make veneer, particularly teak veneer, a good option for some furniture and DIY projects. Teak veneer furniture is still not a viable option for bathrooms or outdoor furniture and fixtures. The characteristics of solid teak are really what makes it so durable. But a teak veneer coffee table or vintage Danish teak vanity make a nice addition to just about any decor.

In addition to all of its wonderful properties, solid teak is also one of the most expensive hardwoods you can buy. Teak veneer for furniture that won’t be exposed to the elements gives everyone the option to enjoy the beauty of teak.

As you know, no one offers better solid teak furniture and accessories than Aquateak. We hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about teak. Take some time and browse our teak outdoor and bathroom furniture and accessories.