Properties of Teak

Teak is found in tropical areas of the world. Thailand, Burma and India are just three countries. Teak is a natural wood, ideal for outside furniture. It contains natural oils that protect it against wet and cold weather. It can also be treated with teak oil giving it more protection against the elements. Teak is expensive although the growth of sustainable teak plantations means that the price will eventually fall and it will be more widely available.

PROPERTY		DESCRIPTION

High in natural oil and rubber content.		The oil content will protect the wood against the rigours of winter weather and summer sunshine

Teak is a close grained hardwood. This makes it possible to cut joints very accurately and makes it suitable for carving as the close grain means it can be carved to include great detail.		Tenon joints, dovetail joints, finger joints and many more can be cut to a high degree of accuracy due to the quality properties of teak

It is one of the hardest, strongest and most durable of all natural woods		This natural wood is strong enough to take the weight of adults and children - if constructed correctly. It is very strong making it suitable for furniture.

Resistant to rotting and to the effects of hot sun, rain, frost or snow, making it most suitable for outside.		Teak can withstand almost all conditions the weather can throw at it.

Shorea wood and Iroko( often called 'African Teak') are known as teak substitutes. However, their properties do not match those of teak.		Teak is expensive and sometimes hard to find/purchase. For this reason substitute woods are sometimes used. They do not have the same outstanding qualities as teak.

Research the internet for more information on a range of woods that resist the rigours of winter weather and summer temperatures. List their names and their individual properties.

PROPERTY		DESCRIPTION

Select one of the materials listed above and explain why you think it is a real alternative to Teak

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