Teak Wood Furniture and Doors

Why teak is so prized

Teak's natural oils and tight structure make it one of the most moisture-resistant woods in the world – historically the timber of choice for ship decks. In Pakistan, where monsoon rain and summer sun hit exterior doors hard, teak keeps its shape and finish far better than most species.

Teak for doors and outdoor spaces

If your budget allows one premium wood in a new house, the main door is often the best place for it. Teak and deodar are the classic choices. For lawns, terraces and covered verandahs, teak furniture handles heat and rain that would quickly damage other woods.

We include door and window woodwork in our finishing work and house construction services.

Teak compared

Indoors, sheesham offers similar strength and warmth at a lower price, while walnut is the luxury alternative for darker tones. Outdoors and in wet areas, teak has few equals. See all options on the wood types page.

Buying teak: what to look for

Teak quality varies enormously. Mature heartwood is dense, golden-brown and oily to the touch, with the moisture resistance teak is famous for. Young plantation teak and sapwood are paler, softer and far less durable – yet both may be sold simply as "teak". Ask about the source and look for even colour and a slightly waxy feel.

For doors, check that the frame and shutter are both solid teak (or clearly specified otherwise), that joints are glued and pinned rather than only nailed, and that the finish seals end grain, where moisture enters most easily. Outdoors, decide whether you want to keep the golden colour with regular oiling or let the wood weather to a soft silver-grey – both are fine, and neither affects the wood's strength.

Teak in bathrooms and kitchens

Teak's moisture resistance also makes it one of the few solid woods suited to bathroom vanities, shelves and kitchen details near the sink. Combined with a good seal and ventilation, it brings warmth to wet rooms that are usually all tile and stone.