Burma Teak
Tectona grandis
Laxmi Lumber introduced Burma teak to the Indian market in 1985 and remains one of the country's most established sources. Its naturally high silica and oil content give it dimensional stability and weather resistance that plantation teaks rarely match, which is why it is specified for superyacht decks, premium doors, flooring and heirloom furniture.
In short — What is Burma Teak?
Burma teak (Tectona grandis) is a premium tropical hardwood from Myanmar, prized for its golden-brown colour, exceptional natural oil content and outstanding resistance to rot, water and insects — the benchmark teak for marine, outdoor and luxury interior work.
Best uses for Burma Teak
- Superyacht and boat decking
- Premium exterior doors and windows
- Luxury flooring
- Heirloom and outdoor furniture
- Decorative veneers
Less suited to: Budget-driven projects where plantation teak suffices.
Working & performance
Workability
Generally easy to work, but the high silica content blunts cutting edges quickly — carbide tooling is recommended. Glues and finishes well once the natural oils are wiped with solvent.
Drying
Dries slowly but with little degrade; very stable once seasoned.
Decay resistance
Very durable; rated highly resistant to decay and termites. Excellent weathering even untreated.
Treatability
Heartwood is resistant to preservative treatment (rarely needed).
Odour
Distinct leather-like scent when freshly worked.
Allergies / safety
Can cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation in some workers; use dust extraction.
Sustainability
Not CITES-listed; source responsibly — Laxmi Lumber sources only legally harvested, documented Burma teak. TODO: add chain-of-custody / certification details.
How Burma Teak compares
Side-by-side with similar species we supply.
| Property | Burma Teak | African Teak | White Oak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Botanical name | Tectona grandis | Milicia excelsa | Quercus alba |
| Type | Hardwood | Hardwood | Hardwood |
| Janka hardness | 1,070 lbf | 1,260 lbf | 1,350 lbf |
| Dried weight | 655 kg/m³ | 660 kg/m³ | 755 kg/m³ |
| Natural durability | Very high | High | High |
| Origin | Myanmar (Burma) | Cameroon, West & Central Africa | USA, Europe |
| Best uses | Superyacht and boat decking, Premium exterior doors and windows, Luxury flooring | Exterior doors and window frames, Outdoor furniture, Commercial joinery | Engineered and solid flooring, Furniture and cabinetry, Interior joinery and panelling |
| Price tier | Premium | Mid-range | Mid-range |
Burma Teak — FAQ
What is the Janka hardness of Burma teak?
Burma teak has a Janka hardness of about 1,070 lbf (4,740 N), placing it in the medium-hard range — hard enough for flooring and decking yet workable for fine furniture.
Why is Burma teak more expensive than plantation teak?
Burma teak grows slowly in natural forests, producing tighter grain and far higher natural oil and silica content than fast-grown plantation teak. That gives superior weather resistance, stability and the signature golden colour — qualities buyers pay a premium for.
Is Burma teak good for outdoor and marine use?
Yes. Its natural oils make it one of the most weather- and water-resistant timbers available, which is why it is the traditional choice for boat decks, outdoor furniture and exterior joinery — often used untreated.
How can I identify genuine Burma teak?
Look for a golden-brown heartwood with straight grain, a slightly oily feel, a leather-like smell when cut, and tight growth rings. Genuine Burma teak also darkens attractively with age rather than greying unevenly.
Source Burma Teak from India's timber pioneers
Tell us your grade, dimensions and quantity — we'll get back to you with availability and pricing.