Cheap teak and counterfeits (tba)

Teak "Grade A

Teak “Grade C”

Color in untreated condition

Honey brown - sometimes slightly reddish due to the drying process . The reddish hue fades naturally after a few weeks (see image above).

Whitish yellow or very different colored (see picture above).

Surface texture

Slightly shiny and absolutely smooth

Pale and always somewhat rough and porous.

Surface treatment

None necessary—it's simply sanded several times, otherwise left completely natural. Grade A teak is always offered untreated by reputable suppliers.

Often treated with colored oil "as an added value" to conceal the stark color differences, pale appearance, and rougher surface. Sometimes bleached with chemicals and then treated with wax to bring the appearance to "Grade A."

Durability class (from 1 -5)

Class 1 (best class)

Class 4 (medium) - comparable to Douglas fir, larch or pine

Durability according to DIN EN350-2

Durability class 1 – very durable
It tolerates heat, rain, snow, and persistent frost without any treatment. It easily resists pests, fungi, and bacteria.

Durability class 3-4 – moderately to slightly durable
If left untreated, it absorbs a lot of moisture and is therefore prone to swelling, cracking, and deterioration. To prevent this, it must be continually treated.

Pest resistance

Best - without any treatment

Moderate - therefore needs ongoing treatment and protection.

Fungal and mold resistance

Best - without any treatment

Moderate - needs regular treatment and protection.

Care requirements

None - semi-annual cleaning with soapy water is sufficient
The furniture can be used normally again after about an hour.

Very high - needs to be oiled intensively 2–4 times per year (twice at 24-hour intervals)
After oiling, you will get grease stains on all your clothes and cushions for many days.

Care costs and expenses per year

approx. 5 euros per year
approx. 2 hours per year
for semi-annual cleaning with soapy water

approx. 150 euros per year
15–20 hours per year
for approx. 6–8 liters of teak oil per year

Care costs and expenses within 5 years

approx. 25 euros
approx. 10 hours

approx. 750 euros
approx. 100 hours