Types of Teakwood

Bojonegoro Teak

Bojonegoro teak originates from Indonesia. This type of teak is generally considered the highest quality exported from Southeast Asia. Bojonegoro teak provides a rich golden color. This type of teakwood also features straight grains that are typically used in products such as floors and doors. Some variations of Bojonegoro teakwood provides wide-spaced grains or a waving-grain structure. The waving grain is often used for wooden handrails.

Banuywangi teak is a second type of teakwood exported mainly from India. Many people choose Banuywangi teak over Bojonegoro teak due to the lower price. The Banuywangi teakwood provides the same dense strength as Bojonegoro, but it lacks the vibrant golden color. Banuywangi teak pieces may have some visible calcium spots and will not stand up as well to attacks from white ants, which is a common problem with most types of teakwood.

Dahat teak is a rare variety of teakwood. Dahat teak only grows in the forests of Myanmar and is an endangered species. Some Dahat furniture pieces are exported from Myanmar, but because the wood is endangered, these pieces are extremely valuable. While it may not be illegal to purchase products made from this type of teakwood, it will have a negative environmental impact.

Philippine teak is another type of endangered teakwood. The Philippine teak is endemic to the islands of the Philippines. Both Dahat and Philippine teak are subject to illegal logging practices that may be taking place in these countries, further promoting the loss of these endangered species.

Buyers should beware of what type of teakwood they purchase. The Tectona grandis, or common teak, is the only type of wood that is provided through environmentally friendly logging practices.

Teakwoods are given a letter-grade rating, which helps determine what specific type of teakwood should be used for items such as outdoor furniture. Teakwood with an A rating is dense and heavy. The wood will not have cracks, splits or visible knots. Teakwood with a B or C rating may have some visible imperfections and be less dense than an A-rated piece.