Changes in color, size and shape are all characteristics that come with the organic nature of wood. Exposure to extreme heat or cold will change wood over time. Each species behaves a bit differently. These reasons are why wood species are so uniquely beautiful. From the crazy striped Zebrawood to the rich chocolate toned Black Walnut, they all have character and charm.
One in particular has a color change process completely unique. Teak lumber is gorgeous for boat decking and cabin accents. The rich caramel tones and even coloration gleam luxuriously in the sun light. The secret to teak’s beauty is simple, sunlight. Allowing Teak to tan in the sun achieves that even gold color.
Installing Teak that has been in darkness since it was milled will give many people a shock. The wood is a duller brown with lines of black, brown, green, yellow and even blue in it. This discoloration is not a sign of uneven drying. In fact, teak dried at different lengths and climates all behaves in close manner. Exposure to the sun for a few weeks to a few months will express light sensitive pigments for that even caramel tone.
This suntan does not change the quality of the wood. Some mills will suntan their teak before sale so that the customer does not have to. J. Gibson McIlvain, which serves the continental U.S. with locations in Baltimore and Connecticut, has a variety of Teak ready for use in their yards. Their knowledgeable staff will explain the process of Teak transformation further if needed.
Interested in learning more about Teak and other lumbers?
- Changes to the Teak import market
- How to deal with wood movement and shrinkage
- Why Burmese Teak is superior to plantation-grown Teak
