Teak wood is one of the most popular lumber choices for a variety of outdoor projects, including patio furniture and decks. Teak has been rising in popularity for a number of years, but, unfortunately, because the supply has increased more slowly than the demand, the price of Teak has risen substantially.
The process of harvesting Teak is very complicated, which also contributes to its higher price. Most tropical woods are harvested by workers who are then able to quickly transport the logs over long distances by simply floating them downriver. Unfortunately, Teak does not float, so this method of transportation is impossible. Therefore, the lumber must be transported by the slower and more traditional method – elephants that pull the logs through the jungle.
The rarity of this wood, coupled with its arduous harvesting process, results in a higher price for the lumber, but there are a number of reasons why Teak is worth its more expensive price.
For example, Teak is world renowned for its attractiveness. Teak lumber has a very dense grain, and it is golden brown in color, but, as the wood matures, the color deepens to a reddish brown that Teak fans find quite beautiful. Even Teak lumber that is left exposed to the elements matures beautifully, changing to a light silver or gray hue.
Teak’s wonderful appearance is matched only by its remarkable durability. Teak trees naturally create an oil that acts as an insect, fungus, and parasite repellent, and this oil also serves to waterproof the wood. The natural oil of Teak trees even goes so far as to inhibit rust and corrosion from forming on the metals that happen to be in contact with the wood. And, unlike other oil and sap producing species, such as maple and tea trees, Teak retains its protective oils after being harvested. This insect, rot, and water resistance is what makes Teak such a popular choice for outdoor applications including decks, patio furniture, boats, and docks.
Teak has the potential to outlast its cheaper alternatives by far. When used in indoor projects, Teak can last for many years, and, when properly treated and maintained, Teak used in outdoor applications can last nearly a lifetime. The lifespan of well-taken-care-of outdoor Teak is about half a century. When compared with the lifespan of conventional pressure-treated lumber (only about 20 years), it is not difficult to see why Teak is a reasonable choice, even for projects that do not necessarily require exotic lumber.
For more information on Teak wood or for questions regarding other types of wood for your project, contact Maryland-based wholesale lumber specialists J. Gibson McIlvain Company toll free at 1-800-638-9100, or visit their website at www.mcilvain.com. McIlvain delivers wholesale imported and domestic lumbers throughout the United States.
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