How to Choose the Right Teak for Your Project
- content3666
- Jun 26
- 2 min read
Not all teak is the same—and that’s a good thing. Whether you're building a backyard bench, a floating vanity, or sourcing material for a commercial build, knowing how to choose the right grade, cut, and finish can make all the difference. In this post, we’ll walk you through the different types of teak we offer at BodhiSol Teak, and how to match them to your project needs.
Understanding Our Teak Grades
We offer two grades of teak: Select and Premium.
Select Grade teak includes natural grain movement, tonal variation, and occasional knots or surface character. It’s perfect for rustic-style projects or builds where visual warmth is part of the charm.
Premium Grade teak is hand-selected for uniform color and grain, with minimal imperfections. It’s ideal for high-end furniture, cabinetry, or any project where consistency and refinement matter.
Finish Types: What’s the Difference Between Rough Sawn, S2S, and S4S?
Teak can be purchased in several finish options, depending on how much milling work you want to do yourself.
Rough Sawn: As raw as it gets—great for woodworking shops and those who want full control over the final dimensions.
S2S (Surfaced Two Sides): Planed top and bottom for a clean face, leaving the edges rough for custom cuts.
S4S (Surfaced Four Sides): Fully planed and dimensioned—ready to go for quick installs or precision work.
Not sure which finish makes sense? If you're building furniture from scratch, S2S gives you a good balance of ease and flexibility. For decorative details or shelves, S4S is your best friend while if you're looking for that live-edge rustic look, rough sawn is what you're after.
Thickness & Size: Start With Your End Use
Currently, we offer 4/4 (1”) thick teak in a variety of widths (1x3 up to 1x6) and lengths (1–8 feet). Not sure how much you need?
Here’s a rough idea:
Floating shelves or small vanities: 5–15bf
Benches or coffee tables: 15–30bf
Wall paneling or large countertops: 50+bf
And if you’re working on something custom? We’re happy to quote special sizes, cuts, or larger quantities. Contact us to learn more!
Choosing Teak That Aligns With Your Values
Every slab we sell comes from plantation-grown teak, sourced directly from small farms in Costa Rica. We’re big believers in transparency, fair trade, and forestry that gives back to the land—not takes from it.
When you choose BodhiSol Teak, you’re not just choosing wood—you’re choosing ethical sourcing, family-run operations, and a slower, more intentional way to build.
Let Us Help You Find the Right Fit
From rustic DIY builds to custom millwork, we’ve got the plantation teak lumber that’s right for your project—and we’ll help you find it. Check out our shop, or request a quote for custom sizing or bulk orders. We’re here to help you build something beautiful, lasting, and aligned with your values.
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