Teak

Teak wood is produced by the Tectona Grandis, a tree that under favourable conditions can attain a height of up to 45 m, with a trunk diameter up to 2.4 meters. The wood’s renowned durability is due to its high content of natural oils.

The limited absorption of moisture protects the wood from warping and thus gives the wood its enormous stability. In addition, the wood is highly resistant to attacks by pests. It is because of these qualities, as well as its exceptionally attractive hue and structure, that teak has deservedly received the title of "the noblest of all wood types".

Ecology

The teak tree originates mainly in what is known as the Golden Triangle, this being the region of Laos, Myanmar (formerly Burma), and Thailand. As in past centuries, the wood was primarily shipped out of two Burmese ports, namely Moulmein and the capital city of Rangoon, it thus became known by its nicknames: Moulmein teak or Rangoon teak. Burma possesses immense natural teakwood resources. The harvesting of the wood is conducted under the supervision of the "Forest Department of Myanmar", and is based on the principle of maintaining a "sustainable forest". This implies a selective system of cutting and reforestation. It is a system that is being promoted by organisations such as the World Wildlife Foundation (WWF). In addition to the process of systematic reforestation in the wild, the operation of controlled teak plantations has also been established by the Burmese government. Many centuries ago, people were already aware of the properties of teakwood, and plantations were established in Africa, South America, and other South-East Asian countries. Soil and climate conditions have a significant impact on the quality of the wood, and as such, only plantation wood from the Tectona Grandis tree grown in Indonesia has the same superior qualities as wood harvested from forest-grown trees. Following the colonial era, the Indonesian plantations came to be supervised by the local population. Today they are operated under the jurisdiction of the state-run institution Perum Perhutani .

Maintenance

In view of its high resistance, teakwood does not require additional protective measures. Nonetheless, a treatment to render the wood less sensitive to stains, or to keep the original colour of the wood, may be desired. Untreated wood, exposed to water and UV rays, will oxidise and take on a silver-grey sheen. It is simply a question of personal taste whether or not an individual wishes to allow the teak to "weather" to a silver-grey colour, or would rather maintain the original golden-brown colour of the wood.

Cleaning Products

- TEAK Cleaner
Strong cleaning agent that removes dirt deposits and moss. Apply, let soak in, and then scrub. Do not use highpressure cleaners as they will damage the wood fibre and increase the porosity of the wood’s surface area.

- TEAK Renovator
Partially restores the goldenbrown colour after greying. A strong cleaner that deeply penetrates into the wood.

- TEAK Stain Remover
A specially developed paste to remove greasy stains on teakwood. Apply the paste and leave to soak in, then rinse with clean water. If desired, treat the wood with Teak Cleaner later.

Protection Products

- TEAK Sealer
This is the ideal to retain the wood's golden-brown colour. It is suitable for indoor as well as for outdoor use. Slightly darkens the natural hue. Treat the wood regularly. Provides protection against greasy stains.

- TEAK Protector
Prevents the formation of moss in damp outdoor environments. Makes the spring cleaning of furniture easy. Does not stop the greying process. Apply annually prior to the onset of winter.

- No Stain
Protects against stains. Is recommended for indoor use. Does not have a UV filter to counteract the greying process. Makes wiping down the furniture much easier. Does not bring about a change in the wood's colour on application.