Types of Teak Wood by Grade & Origin : 101 Ultimate Guide

Explore the Best Teak Wood Variants to Find The Right Timber for Your Project with AtoZ Wood Company

 

At AtoZ Wood Company, we pride ourselves on being the most trusted global supplier of authentic, premium hardwood timber, and Teak is one of our best-selling products. We sell both fresh teak logs and sawn teak timber. Known for its natural durability, water resistance, strength, and beautiful colors, Teak is used across various applications and industries—from premium furniture to marine construction and outdoor projects.

 

There are many varieties of teak. The two most common ways to differentiate teak species are their origin and grade. Different teak species vary greatly in quality, color, grain pattern, physical properties, and longevity. In this guide, we’ll talk about the different types of Teak wood by grade and origin, helping you choose the right fit for your project.

 

What is Teak Wood?

 

Teak (Tectona grandis) is a tropical hardwood found mainly in Southeast Asia, including India, Indonesia, Burma, Thailand, and other regions. It is valued for its striking appearance, natural oils, resistance to pests, and diverse applications. It’s used in both indoor and outdoor projects, from furniture and flooring to decking, marine, and more.

 

Due to its high demand, Teak is now also harvested in plantations across the world, including Africa and South America. Each teak species has unique traits based on its origin and grade, making them key factors in selecting the right type of teak.

 

Types of Teak Wood by Origin

 

Here are the most popular Teak species by origin:

1. African Teak (Iroko)

Often called “African Teak,” Iroko is not actually a type of Teak but is commonly used as an alternative in regions where teak is not readily available. It’s durable, beautiful and pocket-friendly, with a similar golden-brownish color and coarse grain.

Uses: outdoor furniture, decking, flooring

2. Burmese Teak (Myanmar Teak)

Burmese Teak is one of the most popular and finest quality Teak woods in the world. Naturally grown in tropical forests of Myanmar, it features high oil content, making it highly durable, and has tight grains, strong structure, and rich hue that gets darker with age.

Uses: Luxury furniture, yacht decks, design applications

3. Indian Teak

Known for its unique dark color, unmatched density, and superior grain, Indian Teak is favoured for its high durability and weather resistance. It is sometimes compared to Burmese Teak due to similar physical characteristics.

Uses: Doors, windows, furniture, high-end construction

4. Indonesian Teak

Sourced from local plantations in Indonesia, this variety of teak features a lighter tone with more uniform or straight grain. It’s very strong and durable and offers a unique rustic appeal to projects.

Uses: Furniture, indoor flooring, cabinets

5. South American Teak

Grown in plantations in the American countries of Costa Rica and Panama, this Teak species grows faster than other natural types of teak, and is therefore cheaper and more readily available. It also has a lighter color and lower oil content, making it moderately durable.

Uses: Budget-conscious projects demanding decent durability, furniture, construction

6. Thailand Teak

Rare due to its limited availability and high demand, Thailand Teak is often reclaimed and reused. It’s darker, stronger, and incredibly durable.

Uses: Restoration projects, high-end woodworking

7. Brazilian Teak (Cumaru)

Though not genuine Teak, Cumaru is often called “Brazilian Teak” for its appearance and properties similar to teak wood. It is extremely hard, strong and stable but lacks the natural oils of genuine Teak.

Uses: Flooring, furniture

8. Chinese Teak

Often grown in plantations across China, this Teak is lighter, less durable, and softer than most varieties. It’s affordable and readily available.

Uses: Indoor furniture, decorative applications

 

Types of Teak Wood by Grade

 

Teak species are assigned grades based on their unique qualities.

 

Grade A Teak

 

This is the best type of teak and is sourced from the heartwood of mature, naturally-grown trees. It is rich golden-brown with high oil content and uniform grain. It is extremely durable and weather-resistant, making it perfect for marine and outdoor projects.

 

Grade B Teak

 

This Teak comes from semi-mature trees or outer heartwood. It is light brown with lower oil content. The wood is durable but may need treatment for outdoor use. Applications include mid-range furniture, flooring, paneling, and cabinetry.

 

Grade C Teak

 

This is the lowest form of Teak. It’s sourced from the outer sapwood of a tree, has minimal oil and durability and uneven appearance. It is used in indoor decorative and basic furniture projects.

 

Choosing the Right Teak Wood for Your Needs

 

At AtoZ Wood Company, we offer the highest quality of Teak wood with a guarantee of authentic products and the right price, ensuring you find the perfect wood for your project, from high-end construction to indoor furniture.

 

We export Teak logs and timber worldwide to customers across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, North and South America, and Africa, with a promise of consistent quality and reliable, on-time delivery.