Teak lumber is increasingly popular for many uses. This distinctive wood comes from trees of rare beauty whose wood proves to be ideal for a wide range of indoor and outdoor projects.
This tropical hardwood can be imported from Myanmar, Indonesia, India, and Central America. Like many imported woods, teak lumber consumption raises concerns over environmental issues connected to forestry practices. However, such concern is generally unwarranted, thanks to the Perum Perhutani and the Forest Stewardship Council. The Perum Perhutani is a state-owned group that manages the forests of Indonesia, the nation on whose plantations most commercially harvested teak is grown. Chances are, if you see outdoor teak furniture, it’s made of teak from these carefully managed forests. Learn about the difference between Plantation Teak versus Burmese Teak.
When shopping for wholesale Teak lumber, you can ask about teak that’s certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, which guarantees wood that’s grown and harvested in a sustainable fashion. J. Gibson McIlvain carries an expansive selection of teak lumber, all of which has been imported from responsible suppliers.
The appearance and other qualities of teak lumber make it a common choice for outdoor use. As a hard, heavy wood, teak lumber is resistant to decay and acid. Its moderate bending strength and steam bending, along with low stiffness, make it workable, yet stable. The grain of teak wood is straight, and its texture is coarse and uneven. The heartwood ranges from yellowish brown to a dark golden brown, with sapwood that appears grayish white.
The natural oils present in teak lumber have both benefits as well as drawbacks for craftsmen. On the positive side, the oils provide a lustrous appearance as well as termite resistance and general durability, even when untreated. In fact, because the teak-oil is so close to the white surface, it is over-maintenance, not under-maintenance that can cause problems. Using some cleaning compounds or preservatives can actually shorten the lifespan of teak wood. Experts wash teak only with salt water, which prevents drying and shrinkage, while allowing the wood to maintain moisture levels and mildew and algae resistance.
The wearing tendency of teak helps it form a naturally slip-resistant surface; as such, sanding is not only unnecessary, but it can actually be damaging to the wood. Although the wood is generally easy to work, the same silica that provides this wood with so many positive qualities can also cause blunting to edged tools.
Teak is commonly used for both outdoor and indoor purposes. You can find it often used where it’s exposed to the elements, such as for teak decking, doors, window frames, ship decks, columns and beams, and outdoor furniture. You can also find it inside, used for cutting boards, indoor flooring, countertops, and indoor furniture veneers.
Whatever project you’re considering, you may want to use teak. The experts at J. Gibson McIlvain can help you not only select the right wood for your project, but they can also give you tips on how to get the greatest longevity from your wood. Contact McIlvain also regarding their occasional teak lumber sales, which may vary based on supply.
Learn more about Teak and other lumbers:
I am looking at a house that has teak wood kitchen cabinets. My question is can I paint them white? Is there a certain way to paint them. If they can not be painted white, how do I change the color of the stain?