Workshop Wednesday: Teak and Termites — Should You Be Concerned?

by Martin Gilliland

eak has a strong reputation for pest resistance — and it’s well deserved.

Teak contains natural oils and a high silica content that make it unattractive to most wood-boring insects, including termites. The heartwood (the mature interior of the tree) is particularly resistant to infestation and decay.

However, there are important nuances.

Termites are opportunistic. While they generally avoid dense teak heartwood, they may attack:

  • Surrounding structural timber

  • Untreated sapwood (the lighter outer layer of the tree)

  • Furniture joints where food debris accumulates

In most cases, if termites are present in a home, they are targeting structural framing rather than teak furniture.

Practical prevention tips:

  • Keep furniture clean and free of food residue.

  • Avoid direct ground contact for outdoor pieces.

  • Maintain proper drainage and airflow around patios.

  • Ensure regular pest inspections for the home itself.

If you ever notice small bore holes or frass (fine sawdust), consult a professional to confirm the source before assuming the furniture is at fault.

In short: high-quality teak heartwood is naturally resistant. Proper home maintenance is the real line of defense.

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