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Windsor Plywood has been a trusted source for specialty lumber and hardwoods across western Canada for decades. Our specialty lumber selection goes well beyond standard framing grades, offering premium domestic and imported hardwood species suited for fine furniture making, custom cabinetry, architectural millwork, and decorative woodworking projects of all scales. Species available include hard maple, red oak, white oak, walnut, cherry, birch, alder, poplar, and a rotating selection of exotic and figured hardwoods depending on current inventory. In addition to solid hardwood lumber, we carry live edge slabs, figured wood for tabletops and accent pieces, and hardwood plywood in species to match. Windsor Plywood staff are knowledgeable about the properties and working characteristics of each species and can help you select the right material for your specific application. Visit your local Windsor Plywood to browse current specialty lumber stock and discuss your project with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is teak and what makes it the premium exterior hardwood?
Teak (Tectona grandis) is a Southeast Asian hardwood renowned for outstanding natural durability, exceptional dimensional stability, and high oil content that makes it resistant to water, rot, insects, and warping in exterior conditions. It has a Janka hardness of approximately 1070 and a warm golden-brown colour that weathers to silver-grey. Teak is the premium wood for boat decking, outdoor furniture, and high-end exterior millwork worldwide.
Why is teak so expensive?
Teak's combination of outstanding durability, dimensional stability, and attractive appearance makes it uniquely suited to demanding applications where other species fail. Wild-harvested teak from Myanmar and Southeast Asia is increasingly restricted due to concerns about illegal logging. Plantation-grown teak from Central America and Africa is more available but commands a significant premium over domestic alternatives due to growing cycles and demand. The combination of exceptional performance and limited supply drives the price.
Does teak need to be finished or sealed?
Teak can be left unfinished to weather naturally to silver-grey — a look that many appreciate in traditional boat and outdoor furniture aesthetics. To maintain the golden-brown colour and maximum weather protection, apply a teak oil or exterior oil finish annually. Standard deck stains and sealers penetrate poorly into teak's dense, oily grain. Purpose-formulated teak oils are the appropriate maintenance product.
Is teak difficult to work with?
Teak's hardness and high silica content (from its tropical soil) dull steel tools rapidly. Carbide-tipped blades and bits are essential. The natural oils can slow glue curing — wipe cut surfaces with mineral spirits immediately before gluing and allow extended clamping time. Teak dust is a sensitizer; respiratory protection is recommended. The working effort is accepted as part of using a high-performance material.
Does Windsor Plywood carry teak lumber?
Windsor Plywood carries teak in select grades for furniture, outdoor, and marine applications subject to current availability. Confirm the sourcing of teak with Windsor Plywood staff when sustainable or FSC-certified sourcing is a project requirement. Contact your local branch for current stock and pricing.