Guide
Sagwan (Teak) vs Pine: Which Wood Should You Choose?
Two of the most asked-about woods at a timber shop are Sagwan (teak) and pine. Both are useful — but for very different jobs. Here is a plain-language comparison to help you decide before you buy.
Sagwan (Teak) at a glance
Teak is a dense hardwood with a golden-brown colour that darkens beautifully with age. It contains natural oils, which is why it is well known for resisting moisture, decay and termites better than most woods.
Because it is strong and stable, teak is a popular choice for main doors, door and window frames (chaukhat), quality furniture and anything exposed to weather. It is also one of the more premium woods.
Pine at a glance
Pine is a softwood — lighter in weight and colour, with visible knots and a straight grain. It is easy to cut, join and finish, which makes it quick to work with.
Pine suits interior furniture, shelving, panelling, packing and general carpentry. It is more economical than teak, but it is softer and needs proper treatment and finishing if moisture or termites are a concern.
Side-by-side comparison
| Sagwan (Teak) | Pine | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Hardwood | Softwood |
| Colour | Golden to rich brown | Pale yellow / cream, with knots |
| Durability | Very durable; natural oils resist moisture and termites | Moderate; best indoors or when treated |
| Weight | Heavier, dense | Lighter |
| Workability | Good, but harder to cut | Very easy to cut and join |
| Typical uses | Main doors, chaukhat, premium furniture, outdoor use | Interior furniture, shelves, panelling, packing |
| Budget | Premium | Economical |
Which one should you choose?
- Main door or exterior door/frame → Sagwan is usually the safer long-term choice.
- Indoor furniture, shelves or panelling on a budget → Pine works well, especially with a good finish.
- Damp areas (bathrooms, kitchens, ground floor) → prefer a durable hardwood, or ask about treatment.
- Painted finish → the wood’s look matters less, so an economical wood can make sense.
- Natural polished look → teak’s grain and colour really stand out.
What about Chap and Marandi?
Chap and Marandi are also commonly used locally — for frames, furniture and construction work such as shuttering. Which one is right depends on the job, size and budget. Tell us what you are making and we will suggest suitable options from what is in stock.
Tips before you buy timber
- Know your sizes: length, width and thickness for each piece, and how many pieces.
- Check that pieces are straight and free from large cracks or loose knots.
- Ask whether the wood is properly seasoned (dried) for your use.
- Keep a little extra for cutting and wastage.
- Share a photo or drawing of your work — it makes it easier to suggest the right wood.
Need help choosing?
Tell us what you’re making and we’ll suggest the right option — with current price and availability.
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