Uses of Teak Wood. Teak wood contains a kind of oil and deposits in the cells of the wood, so it can be used in the open even without varnishing; especially when used under the shade of the roof. Teak’s high oil content, high tensile strength and tight grain make it particularly suitable where weather resistance is desired. It is used in the manufacture of outdoor furniture and boat decks. It is also used for cutting boards, indoor flooring, countertops and as a veneer for indoor finishings. Although easily worked, it can cause severe blunting on edged tools because of the presence of silica in the wood. Over time teak can weather to a silvery-grey finish, especially when exposed to sunlight.
Teak has long been used as a raw material for the manufacture of ships, including VOC ships that sailed the ocean in the 17th century. Also in heavy construction such as bridges and rail bearings.
In the house, besides being used as raw material for furniture, teak wood is also used in building structures. Traditional Javanese houses, such as the Central Javanese joglo house, use teak wood in almost all parts: the pillars, the roof truss, to the carved walls.
In today’s wood industry, teak is processed into a veneer to coat the face of expensive plywood; and used as parquet (parquet) floor coverings. In addition, it is also exported to foreign countries in the form of outdoor furniture.
Teak branches that can no longer be used for furniture are used as first-class firewood. Teak wood produces high heat, so it was used as fuel for steam locomotives.
Most of the world’s teak needs are supplied by Indonesia and Myanmar.
Uses of Teak Wood