History of Teak

Teak is one of the most durable pieces of wood a person can build with, and thus, it is especially great for products meant for the outdoors and other types of products. Teak is rot resistant and is thought to be one of the most valuable woods a person can invest in. Since the Middle Ages, this wood’s worth has been known. In fact, teak has a long and interesting history.

Teak is also known as Tectona Grandis. This tree is tall and deciduous and has a large crown. Teak is native to South East Asia, especially in Indonesia. The teak that is found in Indonesia has its roots from when the country was under Dutch control. It was the Dutch who founded teak plantations in the early 1800s. After Indonesia became independent of the Dutch, the government took over these plantations and are run by the forestry commison often known as Perum Perhutani.

However, the worth of teak has been known for quite some time. In fact, use of this wood dates as far back as the 7th century when the wood was used for shipbuilding. Teak was found to be an excellent choice for shipbuilding because it was not only rot resistant but also because the natural oil with in the wood was great for warding off termites and wood worm. The wood is even so strong that it could keep from corroding when the wood would rub against metal sections of ships. When the ships were no longer able to sail, the wood was used for other projects, specifically for furniture and structures that would need to withstand the wear and tear of the weather.

During the 1800s, teak became immensely popular in Europe, especially in England. Many members of the upper class were focused on making their gardens as beautiful as possible, and teak became a great material to use when crafting teak garden furniture especially tables, chairs, and benches to use in these gardens. The lasting effects of teak can be seen even today. For example, in England, there are still teak benches that are said to be centuries old. If a person is looking for a wood that is as beautiful as it is durable, then teak is their answer.

By the late 1800s and 1900s, teak only increased in popularity and became the wood of choice not only for cargo ships but also for luxury yachts, outdoor pieces of furniture and museums. Teak is still considered one of the most durable woods one can build with, and its value has only increased throughout the years.