Teak (Rhodesian)

Material Type:
Hardwood

Also Called:
Mukushi, Umgusi, Mukusi, Zambesi Redwood

Durability Notes:
Teak is very durable, with a high resistance to decay and a moderate resistance to termites. Good perfomer all round.

Seasoning:
The drying and seasoning of Teak (Rhodesian) is dependant on a number of factors; the speed in which it is processed after felling and logging, the method of drying and the specific kilns or location (if air dried). Generally the care taken by those processing the wood will have an impact on its drying and seasoning. As an overview; Teak (Rhodesian) - dries slowly but easily, with only slight impact on the grade and quality of the wood, which can be in the form of distortion and surface checking if drying is too rapid. Movement in use is small. Please note that all wood is liable to move when in service plus there can be dimensional change. The extent of this will depend on; the stability of the species itself, the conditions it is exposed to, the coating, decoration and protection. You will find more information about the suitability of this wood, for any proposed application, by using our interactive system and the filters shown.

Properties:
Rhodesian teak is hard and heavy and has a high abrasion resistance. Teak has high crushing and bending strengths, low shock resistance and stiffness and a tolerable steam-bending classification. A glossy, smooth finish can be obtained. The wood can char when being drilled so pre-drilling is required for nailing and screwing. The wood glues and stains well and can be brought to an excellent finish. Teak also turns really well. A great performer all round.

Typical Uses:
Furniture, Cabinetry, Flooring, Decks, Outdoor Structures, Boats, Mouldings, Carvings.

Moisture Content:
Guide - 10-18% for KD (+/- 2%)

Commonly asked questions about Rhodesian Teak Wood

Is Teak a hardwood or a softwood? Teak is a hardwood. It is the same for; is Rhodesian Teak hardwood or softwood? - Rhodesian Teak is a hardwood.

Most groups/families of species share the same characteristics but this normally relates to their life as plants. Individual species do not always share the same characteristics as their relatives, in terms of the wood. Many factors influence how we use the wood and what we use it for, including where it grows, how it is forested, how it seasons/dries, etc. The answers to the following common questions, therefore relate to this particular species/wood and not the Teak family as a whole. Even more specific – our answers relate to the wood (as we know it) in its form as a useable resource.

What colour is Rhodesian Teak? Rhodesian Teak can be described as brown, dark brown, yellow/brown

Is Rhodesian Teak good for outdoor use? or is Rhodesian Teak good for exterior use? Rhodesian Teak is most suited for exterior/external use. Rhodesian Teak can be used as an exterior/external timber (without treatment).

Whether the wood is naturally durable or not we would still recommend that it is decorated and/or coated with a suitable product to provide protection and/or maintain its appearance. This even applies when using the wood internally as, even subtle, changes in temperature or humidity will affect the wood. This will depend on the application/purpose of the wood and the user’s desired appearance. We also recommend that a recoating, care and maintenance programme is adhered to, for the life of an exterior wood. Wood cannot rot if it is kept dry – coatings and decoration can provide this protection. All of that said there are many durable timbers that are often left to weather naturally and will last for many years untreated/coated – movement and visual changes will occur but this is sometimes the desired effect. All wood is hygroscopic (it 'wants' to be in tune with its environment) it will therefore take on water from moisture in the air (or when directly exposed to or submerged in water) and ‘release it’ when dry or exposed to heat. This, inevitably, results in movement and dimensional change. For more about moisture in wood please click here - Moisture in wood