Teak (Tectona grandis) is the benchmark tropical hardwood for outdoor performance, prized for a golden-brown colour, natural oils and remarkable resistance to decay. It’s ring-porous and often contains silica, which contributes to its legendary weathering ability but also makes it more abrasive on tools.
In use teak is dimensionally stable, pleasant to work, and develops a classic silver-grey patina outdoors if left unfinished. Its oily extractives can influence bonding and finishing, but with proper surface prep it performs reliably and holds up in environments that destroy lesser timbers.
Teak is chosen when longevity and low maintenance are the priority: boatbuilding, exterior furniture, decking and high-end joinery. It’s expensive for a reason—few species combine durability, stability and user-friendly workability in quite the same way.