Terra Nova Asian Furniture's WOOD YOU KNOW Series: Teak

Teak, like mahogany, is a tropical hardwood tree that is valued in furniture-making. Because the wood is known for its durability and water resistance, it frequently is used for outdoor furniture. It has a good grain and texture and is easily worked, so it also gets used for fine indoor furniture. Native to south and southeast Asia, many solid wood Asian furniture pieces are made with teak.

Teak wood has a high oil content, which is one of the reasons it gets used where weather resistance is a factor. Additionally, the wood’s tight grain and high tensile strength contribute to its durability in exposure to the elements. When the wood is exposed to direct sunlight, its natural yellowish-brown finish matures to a silver-gray. But even with the change in coloration, the wood retains its durable qualities. In fact, it is highly resistant to termite attacks. These are all reasons why mature teak wood may cost more than other woods.

Mature trees provide the best teak wood for furniture, but it can take as much as 80 years for a tree to mature. Because if this, the plantations in many nations are carefully monitored. In Indonesia, the government itself has a corporation that oversees the management of this natural resource. This management contributes to Indonesia’s status as one of the world’s leading exporters of teak, along with Myanmar.  Myanmar exports a third of the world’s teak, continuing the traditions that made the wood known as “Burmese Teak” for many generations. The world’s oldest teak plantation is in Nilambur, in Kerala, India, and that wood is of very fine quality.

Solid Teak Cabinet with Antique Panel Door

The durability of teak shows not just in modern patio furniture.  In Western India, teak objects more than 2,000 years old have been found in caves, and the objects are still if rather good condition. Considering the fact that these objects have been untreated and uncared for, these findings speak well of the overall nature of the wood. Teak is worth the high price it commands, and even furniture made from reclaimed teak wood is likely to display all the desirable qualities it is known for.

When you find a piece of furniture made of teak, you can be sure that it will be durable and stable for a very long time. Well-kept and maintained teak furniture can be a beautiful addition to your home for many years.  At Terra Nova Designs, you will find contemporary and antique solid teak furniture, like this teak cabinet with antique panel door.  We also carry a large selection of high quality, one of a kind reclaimed wood furniture.  Check out our local Yelp page at http://www.yelp.com/biz/terra-nova-designs-los-angeles-2 or even better, stop by and visit us - you’ll see why we’re known as the best furniture store in Los Angeles!