Garden furniture for years to come - how to spot real teak?

Garden furniture is an investment - not only in functionality, but also in the aesthetics and comfort of our everyday life. This is why it is so important to choose materials that not only look beautiful, but will also stand the test of time. One such material is teak (teak), considered the ‘king of exotic species’ in gardens and terraces. But... are we always sure we are buying real teak?

In this article, we suggest how to recognise authentic teak and how it differs from cheaper imitations.

Where does genuine teak come from?

Authentic teak (Tectona grandis) grows mainly in Southeast Asia - especially in Indonesia, Burma (Myanmar), Thailand and India. Indonesian teak is considered to be of the best quality - it grows slowly, matures over decades and thus acquires an extraordinary hardness and weather resistance.

What does real teak wood look like?

Teak wood has a distinctive golden-honey colour, which patinates over time to a beautiful silvery-grey shade (if not oiled).

Natural teak has:

• a gently irregular, vivid grain,
• essential oils and resins that make it resistant to moisture, fungi and pests,
• a pleasant smell (slightly ‘leathery’ when cut or sanded).

To the touch, the wood is smooth but solid and robust. If a piece of furniture seems too light - it may just be the ‘teak look’.

Beware of substitutes: what is NOT teak?

Some garden furniture described as ‘teak’ is actually made from other types of wood (e.g. robinia, eucalyptus, acacia) and only stained a golden colour.

What to look out for.

‘Teak style’, “teak colour”, ’made from recycled teak’ - are often marketing slogans rather than confirmation of the species.

No certification or accurate description of the origin of the wood.

Low price - real teak is never ‘bargain cheap’.

Teak is a wood for those who choose quality, durability and beauty in one. If you want garden furniture that will look great not only in the summer, but also after many seasons - make an informed choice. Trust not only the price and appearance, but also the origin of the material and its processing history.