Teak has long been considered one of the finest woods in the world for outdoor living. Its natural strength, beautiful grain and exceptional weather resistance make it a favourite for furniture that is designed to last a lifetime.
But in recent years, reclaimed teak has become just as sought after, admired not only for its character but also for its sustainable story.
So what exactly is the difference between the two, and which is right for your garden or outdoor kitchen?
What is Teak?
Teak is a premium hardwood grown mainly in Indonesia. The highest quality, known as Grade A teak, comes from the dense inner heartwood of the tree. This is where the natural oils are richest, providing the legendary durability teak is known for.
Customers often choose new Grade A teak for:
-
a smooth, even texture
-
its warm golden honey tone when new
-
a clean, contemporary finish
-
impressive resistance to rain, frost and sun
With only minimal care, teak furniture can be enjoyed outdoors all year round. It naturally softens to a graceful silver patina over time, or it can be maintained in its golden state if preferred.
What is Reclaimed Teak?
Reclaimed teak begins its life in a very different way. Rather than being cut from newly harvested trees, it is expertly salvaged from old Indonesian buildings, fishing boats, bridges and architectural structures that are no longer in use.
Once restored and re-crafted by skilled artisans, this wood becomes something truly special. Because it has already matured for decades, reclaimed teak is remarkably stable, dense and full of beautiful imperfections that make each piece completely unique.
People choose reclaimed teak for:
-
its rich sense of history and character
-
visible knots, weathering and hand-worked details
-
a more rustic, natural aesthetic
-
outstanding sustainability credentials
It carries the same hard wearing qualities as new teak, but with an added depth that only time can create.
Appearance: Smooth and Uniform vs Character and Story
If you prefer a clean and consistent look, new Grade A teak delivers a refined and elegant finish.
If you love furniture with personality, texture and a sense of heritage, reclaimed teak offers charm that simply cannot be manufactured.
Both are premium choices. The difference is in the look and feel you want in your outdoor space.
Sustainability: Why Reclaimed Teak Matters
Reclaimed teak is one of the most environmentally conscious materials available. By reusing timber from structures that would otherwise be discarded, no new trees are felled. It is a responsible way to enjoy the beauty of teak while reducing pressure on global forests.
At The Garden Furniture Centre we are proud to offer a wide selection of reclaimed teak ranges including:
-
Bari Outdoor Kitchen Range
-
Valencia Dining Collection
-
Himalayan Bar Range
-
Root Furniture and Natural Decorations
-
and more unique reclaimed pieces arriving throughout the year
Each is crafted to honour the original timber, preserving the marks, grain and personality from its previous life.
Durability: Both Built to Last
Whether new or reclaimed, teak remains one of the strongest and most weatherproof timbers on the market. Its natural oils protect it from moisture, sun exposure and changes in temperature, making it ideal for British gardens where the weather can be unpredictable.
Reclaimed teak often feels even more robust due to its maturity. Decades of natural seasoning make it incredibly stable and resistant to cracking or warping.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose new teak if you want:
-
a smooth, modern look
-
minimal variation in the wood
-
a polished and refined finish
Choose reclaimed teak if you want:
-
character, texture and natural charm
-
the most sustainable option
-
a unique piece with its own story
Both are excellent investments that stand the test of time. It comes down to the style that speaks to you and the atmosphere you want to create in your outdoor space.