Hardwood & Joinery

Genuine Burma Teak has excellent qualities for use in the marine environment, but care must be taken to ensure that the teak is Burmese. It has mostly straight grain with an oily content which makes this timber very durable and ideal for exterior work including decks due to it resistance to wear and rot. Many other teaks are available (Java, Nigeria, Plantation, etc) which vary significantly in colour, density, stability and durability and are best avoided.
Cost: High
Moisture Movement: Small
Durability: Very Durable
Size: Medium

This traditional boat building is very strong for its weight and is therefore used for both heavy constructional purposes as well as being suitable for masts and spars. Its is available in long clear lengths and finishes well.
Cost: Low- Medium
Moisture Movement: Small
Durability: Moderately Durable
Size: Large

Western Red Cedar is an excellent light weight softwood used for construction work. It is also available in constructional veneer, ideal for cold moulding. Having straight grain it is very easy to work due to its light weight and is used for racing boat construction and interior fitting out.
Cost: Low Medium
Moisture Movement: Small
Durability: Very Durable
Size: Small - Medium

With good wide and defect free boards available, Southern Yellow Pine is often used for interior and exterior wok on boats. It is easy to work and finishes well. It should be well treated in an exterior situation.
Cost: Low
Moisture Movement: Medium
Durability: Non Durable
Size: Small – Medium

Although technically non durable, Sitka Spruce is popular because of its very high strength to weight ratio and close straight grain. It has excellent working qualities. Although now becoming difficult to obtain in high quality, when available it is ideal for masts and spars.
Cost: Medium
Moisture Movement: Small
Durability: Non Durable
Size: Small – Medium

Siberian Larch is a very versatile softwood, because it is slow grown it is a dense and durable product making it ideal for cladding, weatherboard and decking applications.