Grade-A teak is premium wood that comes from the trunk's core, which has the most oil. The wood repels pests and moisture more than other wood found in the trunk because it contains a higher amount of rubber and silica. Grade-A teak is less likely to contain knots and its grain appears even and straight. It has a rich golden brown color. It's the most sought after wood for high-end furniture, because of its superior attributes. Grade-A teak costs as much as 10 times more than super and triple grade-A teak varieties, according to Teak Experts.
Super grade-A (AA) is found in the outer-layer of the trunk's core. It bears a considerable amount of natural oil that makes it suitable for furniture. It has a golden brown color, but it's a shade or two lighter than grade-A teak. Super grade-A teak has a coarser texture that is also less glossy in appearance compared to grade-A teak. Most manufacturers and distributors still consider super grade-A as a quality wood product.
The lowest quality, cheapest variety of teak is triple grade-A (AAA). It's derived from the outermost part of the trunk nearest to the bark. It generally contains knots and other imperfections. The wood usually has a looser grain than the other grades. Though triple grade-A teak offers considerable resistance from pests and water, it's also prone to cracking and splintering. For this reason, it's considered a less durable product for outdoor furniture.