World of Wood

The Wonderful World of Wood:

Teak:

• "Tectona grandis"

Other Names:

• Kyun
• sagwan
• teku
• teka

Sources:

• South and Southeast Asia
• Africa
• Caribbean.

Tree Characteristics:

• The tree varies in size according to growing conditions, but it can reach 150ft in height and produce a long stright trunk about 5ft in diameter.
• The trunk can be fluted and buttressed for support.

Characteristics of the wood:

• It has a coarse uneven texture with an oily feel. The grain can be straight or wavy, according to its origin.
• Burma teak is a uniform golden brown; others are darker and more marked.
• The wood is strong, with moderate steam bending properties.
• It is naturally very durable.

Workability:

• It works well with hand and machine tools, but quickly dulls cutting edges.
• It glues well on newly prepared surfaces.

Average dried weight:

• 41lb/cuft.

Finishing:

• It can be stained, varnished and polished, and finishes well with an oil finish.

Common uses:

• Interior and exterior joinery.
• Boatbuilding.
• Garden Furniture.
• Turnery.
• Plywood.
• Veneer.