Description
Teak is a wood species with a strong reputation, yet there are many misconceptions about it. Originally from Southeast Asia, the teak tree (Tectona grandis) is now widely planted in the tropics. This results in significant variations in color, weight, hardness, and so on. The best quality teak is the old teak from East Java, which was used in traditional houses. These houses are often purchased purely for the quality of the teak, and then used to manufacture furniture. This beautiful, dark golden-brown, flamed wood is also called Djati. Another source of confusion is the numerous names in circulation consisting of "teak" with a prefix. Some of these are teak species from a specific growing region, while others are invented names (for other wood species). For example, (West) African teak is not teak at all, but Afrormosia, Pericopsis elata. A very rare, dense, and hard wood. Typical applications for teak are in shipbuilding, particularly yachts, and for indoor and garden furniture. In both applications, teak's excellent resistance to weather and wind, even without maintenance, is crucial. It is also used for fine carpentry and is a favorite of sculptors. It is also used in laboratories as a worktop material due to its inertness and low porosity. This wood was also used in the royal family's "Golden Coach," which was commissioned in February 1901.
