Teak--- (Tectona grandis)
is considered by mariners to be the world's
most valuable and versatile hardwood. The
rare beauty of teak, its rich golden brown
luster, decorative grain and unique properties
or strength, stability, resistance to wear
have made it the most demanded wood for
marine use. Teak is known as the King of
Woods. There are many uses for teak and
very few substitutes.
Teak is a pillar of the shipbuilding industry.
Teak has been used on aircraft carriers,
tall mast graceful clipper ships, exquisite
cruise ships, refined yachts, dinghies as
well as rugged workboats. For centuries
teak decks have been the paragon of excellence
but few people know all of the remarkable
benefits and applications of this unique
wood. On the exterior teak decks are specified
because teak is the only wood that can withstand
the harsh dramatic changes of the sea water
and broiling sun and does not split, crack
or warp. The decks of the Titanic
were covered with teak. The wood is as good
today as the fateful night, 15 April 1912,
when she sank. The heartwood was just as
durable and golden brown as the day the
tree was felled. |
In boat interiors where there is high
humidity teak is ideal for doors, hatches
and cabinetry because it does not warp,
twist or expand which could make opening
doors and drawers difficult or impossible.
Most woods when in contact with water will
readily crack. Teak, because of natural
oils has a very low coefficient of expansion
and contraction so it remains stable even
under months in the hot sun or submersed
in ocean waters. Teak has high silica content.
Silica is sand which gives traction to
those walking on a wet teak deck. Most of
us have stepped on a wet oak or pine plank
and had our feet go flying out from underneath
us but this will not happen with teak. In
a marine environment metals corrode easily
turning woods in contact with the metal
black with oxidation but not so with teak
by virtue of its natural oils. Teak needs
no paint or varnish and over time will develop
a silver gray patina.
Severe winter snow storms, monsoon rains,
tropical heat and even the scorching dry
conditions of deserts do not diminish the
strength of teak. Teak has natural resins
called technoquinines that naturally repel
termites, marine borers and resist rot.
Teak is a relatively easy wood to machine
or work with hand tools. Craftsmen and sculptors
revere its attributes. There is no other
wood or man-made material that has the versatility
of teak. |
