Facts and Tips
We recently brought a load in of Trinidad Teak into the states. Some 4/4 and 8/4 material. This material is air dried but already surfaced four sides.
This Trinidad teak material can mimic the same properties as the Burmese Teak at a fraction of the cost. Since these boards are cut from a younger tree the grain patterns can sometimes be busier or wavy in its grain patterns with some quarter sawn grains mixed in as well. However, the properties are the same. These seeds were harvested from original Burmese Teak trees but grown in Trinidad.
Trinidad Teak is the closest teak to the Burmese Teak due to the environment and soil its grown in on the island. However, its contrast can be that it is slightly lighter in color and have a slightly busier grain pattern. Since it is not being harvested from 150-200 year old Burma trees where the heartwood is straight and uniformed the Trinidad teak trees do mimic a straight grain pattern as well with the older trees grown on the island.
Teak Properties /Treatment and Care
Teak Hardwood is a versatile material as it has extremely great properties such as:
-Workability is easy. This exotic hardwood is considered a hardwood however is it a little softer than most hardwoods its easy to mill or work
-Teak has a natural silica content built into the wood that creates a waxy feel to the hardwood. This is why it is a great material to use in out door applications or in the marine industry. It is water repellent.
-Another factor is it is mold , mildew and bug resistant. Ultimately why this hardwood is used on boat decking, boat interiors and outdoor applications.
-It is weather resistant to all elements. However, it does have to be maintained in the outdoor application with teak oil, mineral oil or sealants to keep its rich golden brown color. Otherwise teak will patina or turn grey overtime.
