Burmese Teak vs. South American Teak: The Battle of Luxury and Toughness in Outdoor Wood

When it comes to picking the perfect wood, the choice between Burmese teak and South American teak (aka Cumaru) is like deciding between a luxury sports car and a rugged off-road vehicle. Both have their strengths, but they belong in different leagues entirely.

Let’s start with the classic: Burmese teak (Tectona grandis). This is the real deal, the crown jewel of the teak family, originating from the lush forests of Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia. Picture golden-brown tones with a silky sheen, thanks to its natural oils. It’s the kind of wood that ages like fine wine — beautiful, elegant, and full of character. It doesn’t warp, crack, or complain, no matter the weather. With its tight grain and smooth texture, Burmese teak shines as the ultimate choice for high-end furniture, decks, and even yacht building. It’s the wood that whispers luxury, and it’s no wonder people call it “the gold of the forest.”

Now, meet the contender: South American teak, often referred to as Cumaru (Dipteryx odorata). Despite its nickname, this isn’t true teak but rather a hard and heavy substitute from the rainforests of Brazil and Colombia. If Burmese teak is the refined gentleman, Cumaru is the tough, rugged adventurer. Its color leans darker, often a deep brown or reddish hue with a coarser, bolder grain. It’s dense, durable, and undeniably hard, but it lacks the natural oils that make Burmese teak so famously weather-resistant. Without that built-in protection, Cumaru needs extra care and maintenance to avoid cracking or warping under pressure.

Durability? Burmese teak wins hands down. With its high oil content and silica, this wood can withstand the harshest of climates, from tropical downpours to salty sea breezes. It’s resistant to insects, rot, and decay, making it a top choice for any long-term outdoor project. Cumaru, on the other hand, offers great hardness and wear resistance but isn’t as stable. It’s prone to splitting and requires careful handling and regular upkeep.

What about the price tag? Here’s where things get tricky. Burmese teak is a premium product with a premium price, thanks to its quality and the limited supply. It’s often FSC-certified to ensure sustainable sourcing, but that also adds to the cost. Cumaru is a more affordable option, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious projects. However, its sustainability is a growing concern due to over-harvesting and deforestation issues in South America.

In the end, if you’re looking for the gold standard in wood — something with unmatched beauty, stability, and longevity — Burmese teak is the way to go. It’s an investment that pays off in timeless elegance and durability. But if you need a sturdy, cost-effective alternative and don’t mind the extra maintenance, Cumaru can be a great option.

Think of it this way: Burmese teak is the Bentley of hardwoods, while Cumaru is more like a tough, reliable 4x4. Both have their place, but only one comes with the kind of pedigree and prestige that makes it truly irreplaceable.