🪵 What Is the Difference Between New Teak and Reclaimed Teak?

🪵 What Is the Difference Between New Teak and Reclaimed Teak?

New teak is typically harvested from plantations, often with trees aged 20 to 30 years. While still a durable hardwood, its fiber density and grain character can’t compare to that of older trees.

Reclaimed teak, on the other hand, comes from old structures — such as colonial buildings, Javanese joglos, or marine vessels — and is usually over 50 years old. This age gives the wood extraordinary properties.

🔍 Learn more about teak sustainability from the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council){:target="_blank"}.

🌳 The Aesthetic Advantage: Natural Patina and Authentic Character

FeatureNew TeakReclaimed TeakColorUniform golden hueRich variation: honey, brown, silver tonesTextureSmooth and straight-grainedWeathered, with tool marks and natural wearVisual ImpactClean and modernDeeply textured, rustic or luxurious

Reclaimed teak is prized by interior designers for its authentic charm. Its natural patina, developed over decades, gives depth and soul to any surface — something no stain or finish can imitate.

💡 See examples of reclaimed textures at International Timber{:target="_blank"}.

🧱 Density, Durability & Dimensional Stability: Why Age Matters

New plantation teak, though durable, can have higher moisture content and a lower oil concentration. This affects its performance over time — especially in Bali's humid climate.

Reclaimed teak:

• Has naturally dried over decades → Less prone to warping or cracking

• Possesses higher density → Greater resistance to pests

• Retains natural oils → Excellent water repellency

🔬 According to Wood Database{:target="_blank"}, reclaimed teak can outperform newer cuts in long-term stability.

🌍 Sustainability & Ethics: Choosing Material With a Story

Every square centimeter of reclaimed teak represents wood that wasn't cut from a living tree.

✅ Environmental Benefits:

• No logging = No deforestation

• Reduces construction waste

• Supports a circular economy

⚖️ Ethical Sourcing: At Kitaru Lumberyard, our reclaimed teak is:

• Fully certified under FSC Recycled{:target="_blank"}

• Sourced with respect for local communities and traditional structures

📉 According to WWF{:target="_blank"}, 1 m³ of reused wood can prevent 1.1 tons of CO2 emissions.

🏛️ Heritage Value: When Materials Carry History

There is intrinsic beauty in knowing your floor or dining table once supported a colonial home or sailed across the Java Sea.

📜 Reclaimed teak tells a story:

• Nail holes, weather stains, and saw marks become design features

• Cultural heritage is preserved in every panel

• Ideal for storytelling in hotels, villas, and boutique retail spaces

🖼️ Project example: A villa in Ubud used reclaimed beams from a 1930s Dutch estate — merging modern luxury with Balinese nostalgia.

🛠️ How Do Designers Use Reclaimed Teak Today?

Reclaimed teak’s adaptability makes it a favorite among top Balinese and international designers.

Common applications:

• Exposed ceiling beams

• Feature walls

• Floating staircases

• Outdoor decks and pergolas

• Sculptural furniture

Modern trends combine reclaimed wood with:

• Polished concrete

• Brushed metal fixtures

• Glass for contrast

🏆 Featured project: The award-winning "Green Sanctuary Bali" used 80% reclaimed wood in its eco-luxury bungalows (ArchDaily{:target="_blank"}).

🧴 Maintenance & Longevity: Naturally Resilient Wood

Despite its age, reclaimed teak is easy to maintain — especially in tropical climates.

Recommended treatments:

• Coconut oil or beeswax every 12 months

• Occasional sanding and re-oiling

• Avoid harsh chemicals and pressure washers

Thanks to its oil content, reclaimed teak develops gracefully rather than deteriorating.

🔧 Maintenance guide available via The Woodworker’s Journal{:target="_blank"}.

🧠 Final Considerations: Is New Teak Ever the Better Choice?

New teak may be suitable if:

• Budget is tight (reclaimed wood can cost 10–20% more)

• Uniform color and texture are essential

• Custom dimensions are required immediately

But if longevity, character, and sustainability matter — reclaimed teak is the superior choice.

🎯 Summary Table: Reclaimed Teak vs New Teak

FeatureReclaimed TeakNew TeakAppearanceUnique patina, characterConsistent, smooth finishDensity & StabilityNaturally aged, less movementMore prone to warpingSustainability100% eco-friendlyPlantation-grown (may cause deforestation)Historical ValueHigh (often over 50 years old)NoneCostSlightly higherMore affordableAvailabilityLimited, depends on supplyReadily available

📞 Ready to Build With a Story?

At Kitaru Lumberyard Bali, we specialize in sourcing and preparing the highest-quality reclaimed teak for residential and commercial projects across Southeast Asia and beyond.

📍 Visit our Bali showroom 📞 Call us at +62 123 456 789 🌐 www.kitaru-lumberyard-bali.com

Let’s build something beautiful — and sustainable — together.