How To Identify The Different Varieties of Teak Wood

When it comes to modern outdoor furniture, teak wood is a true champion. Besides its durability and beautiful appearance, teak wood possesses natural oils that make it resistant to bugs, moisture, and decay.

But did you know that not all teak wood is created equal? There are actually different varieties of teak, each with its own unique characteristics and qualities.

Knowing how to identify the different varieties of teak wood can help you choose the right type for your home and ensure that you're getting the best quality wood.

In this article, we’ll go over the different types of teak wood and how to spot the real deal. We’ll also provide practical tips and examples to help you become more familiar with the different varieties of teak wood and make informed decisions when purchasing genuine teak furniture.

Types of teak wood

There are five main varieties of teak wood, and here's a closer look at each one of them:

1. Burmese teak

Also known as Myanmar teak, Burmese teak is a highly sought-after variety that’s known for its exceptional quality and durability. Often classified as A-grade teak wood, Burmese teak has earned its place as a top choice for crafting exquisite outdoor furniture.  

One of the distinctive characteristics of Burmese teak is its rich, golden-brown color. This color comes from high levels of natural oils and resins in the wood, which help to protect it from moisture and decay. Burmese teak also boasts a distinctive grain pattern that’s characterized by irregular lines and knots, which give it a unique and natural appearance.

When it comes to identifying Burmese teak, there are several key features to look for. Besides its distinctive color and grain pattern, Burmese teak tends to be denser and heavier compared to other types of teak wood. 

However, it's important to note that Burmese teak is becoming increasingly rare and expensive due to restrictions on logging and trade. This unfortunately means that many sellers may try to pass off other types of wood as Burmese teak, so it's important to purchase from a reputable source and do your research before making a purchase.

2. Indonesian teak

Indonesian teak is another variety of teak wood that’s widely used for outdoor furniture. It is known for its high quality and unique characteristics, making it a popular choice. 

Indonesian teak is often referred to as Javanese teak, as it is primarily sourced from Java. It has a rich, golden color and a distinctive grain pattern characterized by tight, straight lines. This gives it a more uniform and refined look compared to other teak varieties. 

Indonesian teak is also known for its high density, which makes it very durable and resistant to wear and tear, perfect for withstanding the elements and maintaining its beauty for years to come.

At Castlery, we use Grade B+ Indonesian teak for our Rio Collection.

3. Indian teak

Indian teak is one of the most commonly used types of teak wood in furniture making.

One of the things that distinguishes Indian teak is its rich color palette. It can range from light to dark brown with a yellow or golden hue. Indian teak also has a straight, even grain pattern that can be either coarse or fine, depending on the specific species of teak wood.

In terms of quality, Indian teak is considered to be a high-quality wood that’s both durable and strong. It has a high natural oil content, which makes it resistant to moisture, rot, and damage caused by tiny bugs on outdoor furniture. Indian teak is also known for its stability, meaning it's less likely to warp or crack over time, making it a fantastic choice for furniture that needs to withstand the test of time.

Compared to other teak varieties, it often has a lighter color and slightly less dense grain.

4. African teak

While often grouped with other teak wood varieties, African teak isn’t actually a true teak. It's a hardwood native to several countries in West Africa that shares some similarities with teak in terms of its looks and qualities.

The captivating beauty of African teak is undeniable, and its deep reddish-brown color plays a significant role in its appeal. This rich hue tends to darken over time, developing a beautiful patina that adds character and warmth to any piece. The wood also has a pronounced, interlocked grain pattern that can give it a striking and unique appearance.

In terms of durability, African teak is known for its high density and natural resistance to decay, insects, and rot. It’s also strong and durable, making it a popular choice for flooring, decking, and other outdoor furniture.

If you want to know if you’re dealing with genuine African teak, look for that distinctive color and grain pattern. African teak also tends to be heavier and denser than other types of hardwood. 

5. Plantation teak

Plantation teak is a viable option for those seeking a more sustainable and often budget-friendly choice for their outdoor furniture. Grown in monoculture plantations, the trees of plantation teak are planted in rows and harvested in a systematic manner. This allows for more efficient use of land and resources, and it also reduces the environmental impact of teak wood production.

In terms of appearance, plantation teak tends to have a more consistent range of colors, from golden to honey-toned hues and grain pattern compared to natural teak wood. This is because the trees are grown under controlled conditions, which can result in more uniform growth patterns. However, some people argue that this can also make plantation teak look less authentic compared to natural teak wood.

Identifying plantation teak can be challenging, as it often looks very similar to other types of genuine teak wood. However, plantation teak is often labeled as such by the seller, so it's always a good idea to check the product description before making a purchase.

Comparing the 5 types of wood

To help you better understand the nuances of each teak variety, here’s a quick comparison of their key characteristics:

How to identify genuine teak wood

Now that you’re familiar with the different types of teak wood, let's go over how to identify authentic teak wood. Here are some key factors to consider:

Look at the color

So, what does teak wood look like? Well, the color of genuine teak wood can vary significantly depending on the variety and specific tree. Burmese teak, for example, often displays a deep golden-brown color, which can range from a light honey color to a darker reddish-brown. 

On the other hand, Indonesian teak is typically lighter in color, ranging from pale yellow to light brown. 

That said, don’t be too wrapped up in the color as it can change, especially over time. If the teak is untreated and exposed to the elements, it’ll gradually develop a silvery-grey patina. 

This is a natural weathering process and is a good indicator of genuine teak. Moreover, some manufacturers may apply a finish to preserve the original golden brown color, so don't rely on color alone.

Check the grain pattern

Teak wood generally has a straight grain pattern, but it can vary in coarseness depending on the type of teak. For example, Burmese teak typically has a fine, even grain pattern that’s straight or slightly wavy, while Indonesian teak features a distinctive grain with tight, straight lines.

Grain patterns also differ depending on the quality of the teak wood. High-quality teak wood have a more consistent and uniform grain pattern with minimal knots or irregularities, whereas lower-grade teak may have more knots, uneven texture, and an inconsistent grain pattern.

Consider the weight and density

Teak is a naturally dense and heavy wood. Pick up the piece and assess its weight – it should feel solid and substantial for its size. Genuine teak wood is often much heavier and denser than other types of wood, so if the wood feels unusually lightweight for its size, it may not be genuine teak wood.

Smell the wood

This might sound unusual, but give the wood a sniff! Teak has a distinctive, leathery scent due to the natural oils present in the wood. This aroma is more pronounced in freshly cut or unfinished teak. If you're unsure about a piece, this can be a helpful clue.

Look out for other characteristics

Depending on the variety of teak wood, there may be other characteristics you should take note of when looking for teak wood furniture. 

For example, teak wood often feels slightly oily or waxy to the touch. It might even have a powdery surface when it's brand new. Teak wood is also very resistant to scratches and dents due to its high density and strength.

Teak with confidence

Identifying the different varieties of teak wood can be challenging due to the many factors that can affect its appearance and properties.

However, by paying close attention to factors, such as wood color, grain pattern, and density, you can start to differentiate between different types of teak wood.

Frequently asked questions about genuine teak wood

Is teak wood expensive?

Yes, teak wood is generally considered a premium and expensive wood compared to other hardwoods. Several factors contribute to its higher price:

• Slow growth: Teak trees grow slowly, taking several decades to reach maturity. This slow growth cycle limits the supply of genuine teak wood, contributing to its higher cost.
  
  

• Durability and natural oils: Teak wood is renowned for its exceptional durability and natural resistance to moisture, pests, and decay. These qualities make it a highly sought-after material for outdoor furniture and other applications, further driving up its price.
  
  

• Sourcing and sustainability: Sourcing teak wood responsibly and sustainably can also add to its cost. Sustainable forestry practices, such as those implemented by the Indonesian government, ensure that genuine teak wood is harvested in an environmentally responsible manner, but they can also increase production costs.

Is teak a good wood?

Yes, teak is an excellent wood with many desirable qualities:

• Durability: Teak wood is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for furniture that will be exposed to the elements or heavy use.
  
  

• Weather resistance: Its natural oils and high silica content make teak wood naturally resistant to moisture, rot, and pests. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor furniture, boatbuilding, and other applications where weather resistance is crucial.
  
  

• Beauty: Teak wood has a warm, rich color and attractive grain pattern that adds a touch of natural elegance to any space.
  
  

• Stability: Teak wood is known for its dimensional stability, meaning it’s less likely to warp or crack over time, even in fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels.
  
  

• Low maintenance: Teak furniture refinishing is often minimal. 

What are the disadvantages of teak wood?

While teak wood offers numerous advantages, there are also a few potential disadvantages to consider:

• Cost: Teak wood is generally more expensive than other hardwoods. This can make it prohibitive for some budgets.
  
  

• Color change: Over time, teak wood will naturally weather to a silvery-gray patina if left untreated. While some people appreciate this natural aging process, others may prefer the original golden-brown color. Regular oiling can help maintain the original color, but it requires ongoing maintenance.
  
  

• Staining: Teak wood's natural oils can sometimes make it difficult to stain evenly. If you plan on staining your teak furniture, it's important to test the stain on a hidden area first to ensure you achieve the desired result.