Teak
A Material Problem
Decking and other outdoor projects are demanding on materials. The elements can be harsh, and there aren’t many things that can weather them. Plastic composite decking cannot be produced without relying on the fossil fuel industry, and is not very attractive. Many outdoor projects are built with pressure treated wood, which also uses fossil fuels in production. It is also the least durable option. In the Georgia climate this material may only last 10-15 years.
Some woods, like the American redwood, and red cedar are naturally resilient, but soft, and result in cutting down the ancient forests of California and Canada.
This lack of options has driven us to import our own decking and paneling directly from Niceragua. FSC certified plantation teak can last 30-50 years before signs of decomposition. Because we get it directly from the source, we are able to sell it to our clients at a price point similar to composite decking and at half the cost of competitive tropical hardwoods like Ipe or Mangaris
The material is also absolutely beautiful. At a cost only marginally more expensive than pressure treated pine, what's not to love?
Decking and other outdoor projects are demanding on materials
With few sustainable options, what’s left?
Benefits of Teak
Teak is a beautiful and durable wood. It’s so hearty that it is one of the only woods fit for ship construction. Old growth teak has been harvested for decades because of this. The overharvesting of old growth teak, and the consequent restrictions of old growth teak sale on the global market, caused a demand for sustainably produced plantation teak. Thankfully, another great benefit of teak is that it grows quickly, and so is well suited for cultivation. Lots of people have a conception of teak as a premium and unattainable wood due to its history, and, while it is beautiful, durable, and versatile, the growing infrastructure surrounding teak production means it is affordable as well! We truly believe teak is the best material for almost all outdoor projects.
beautiful, durable, and versatile, we believe teak is the best material for almost all outdoor projects.
Nicaraguan Partners
There are so few sustainable decking options, we flew to Nicaragua to find one. We’ve been importing high quality teak from Nicaragua for years. Originally from Malaysia, teak thrives in tropical climates, and Nicaragua is one of the world leaders in teak production. Our partners in Nicaragua are not only committed to the sustainable production and harvesting of their product, but also to ecological conservation and to uplifting their community in Northern Nicaragua. They are carbon neutral, and FSC certified. With how genuinely great they are, it’s hard to believe they can offer such competitive and affordable pricing! You can read more about them here.
