Sheesham vs Teak Wood - Durability, Price & Quality Compared

When you plan to buy wooden furniture, you always find yourself debating about the two market favourites: Sheesham and Teak. Both are strong and durable and are widely preferred by Indian buyers. How these woods perform and look depends on your needs and usage. So, if you are trying to understand the difference between the two and want clarity on Sheesham vs teak wood, we can help you understand and choose.

Because at Greenply, we understand how much good wood affects the furniture and the pain of choosing the wrong one. In this case, where both woods are strong and are an investment, it is more important to know the behaviour of the wood. Let’s look at the comparison of sheesham wood vs teak wood, which is better for your home!

Why Are Teak and Sheesham So Popular?

These woods are hard and are well-known for their strength and long service. Teak is the golden standard for premium furniture, while sheesham is preferred for its dense and beautiful grain pattern and affordability compared to teak, which is on the pricier side. Both of these woods have their expectations, designs and budgets, so it is necessary for homeowners to compare them before deciding. 

1. Long-Term Usage and Strength

Teak Wood

Teak is full of natural oils and is resistant to humid conditions and pests.  It is also a solid option for daily use, and teak furniture lasts decades, and if used with care, can be passed down through generations.

Used for making:

• Outdoor furniture

• Arm chairs

• Bed frames

• Sofas 

• Centre tables

Sheesham Wood

Sheesham or shisham or Indian rosewood is a fast-growing and hardy wood from Northen India. It is known to be strong and durable but lacks the moisture resistance of teak. So it is ideal for indoor usage only. 

Best for:

• Cabinets
  

• Centre tables
  

• Storage or bookshelves
  

• Designer furniture 

Sheesham requires polishing sometimes, but it is a solid indoor performer. 

Verdict:
For long-term service in humid areas, teak is the winner, but for daily use indoor furniture, sheesham is strong enough and lighter on the pocket. 

2. Colours and Patterns

Teak 

Teak has tight and straight-lined grain that is darker in colour, and the touch and feel of it can range from smooth to coarse depending on how it is cut. 

Sheesham 

Sheesham has a wavy or irregular pattern that adds to a piece’s uniqueness. The colours for sheesham range from warm golden brown to reddish brown and give it an artisanal appeal. 

Verdict:

Sheesham is ideal for indoor usage and designer pieces. Meanwhile, teak is strong and long-term serviceable and can be used outdoors.

3. Maintenance Needs

Teak 

Teak does not require heavy maintenance over longer periods because it is full of natural oils and resistant to moisture and insects. 

Sheesham 

Sheesham has to be maintained and polished for its grain to keep the design. It is not ideal for outdoor usage. 

Verdict:
Go for teak for its easy maintenance and longevity, and sheesham for interior usage and visual appeal. The sturdy oak plywood that we make at Greenply is ideal for making chairs and sofas for ease of use that boast the same longevity with minimal maintenance. 

4. Moisture and Insect Resistance

Teak 

Teak is not affected by insects and moisture due to its hard, natural design and oils. This makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor usage. 

Sheesham Wood

Sheesham is somewhat resistant to insects such as termites and borers when compared to teak, which means it will require maintenance and can not be used outside. 

Verdict:

Teak is naturally resistant and is ideal for outdoor usage, so it can be used in verandas, but sheesham is ideal for indoor use as it is not as resistant. 

5. Sheesham Wood vs Teak Wood Price

Comparing sheesham wood vs teak wood price is all about practicality, and there is a noticeable difference. Let’s look into it. 

Teak Wood Price

Teak is expensive because it grows slowly, is durable and always in demand. Genuine teak from great sources comes at a premium price. 

Sheesham’s Price 

Sheesham is slightly cheaper when compared to teak and still offers visual appeal and durability. It is ideal for aesthetic and beautiful pieces without the price tag of teak

Verdict:
Spending on teak is an investment, and it serves long-term. But if you want looks and affordability, sheesham still offers great value for money. At Greenply we supply the best of both these woods, ideal for long term furniture building. 

6. Difference Between Sheesham and Sagwan Wood

Sagwan is just the Hindi name for teak, so when comparing the difference between sheesham and sagwan wood, you’re just comparing sheesham and teak. Here are the highlights of both the woods: 

Sheesham (Indian Rosewood / Dalbergia Sissoo)

• Dense grain

• Affordability 

• Great for indoor use

Sagwan (Teak / Tectona Grandis)

• Very durable

• Resists moisture

• Ideal for outdoor and humid area usage. 

Knowing the names and performance of the wood avoids confusion when shopping for wood. The oak and sheesham plywood and wood sheets that we have at Greenply are both durable and pest-resistant, and make for great furniture designs and service. 

7. Which Wood Should You Choose?

Let’s look at how the woods are when compared to each other and serve in terms of common needs and daily usage. This will make your decision-making process easier: 

• Choose teak for - strength and longevity

• Choose sheesham for - budget friendliness and visual appeal

• Choose teak for - outdoor usage and humid areas

• Choose sheesham for - decorative and stylish pieces

• Choose teak for - lighter colours and premium features

• Choose sheesham for - rich grain and colour

Sheesham Wood vs Teak Wood, Which Is Better?

Sheesham wood vs teak wood comes down to needs and preferences. You should choose teak for its strength and longevity, and sheesham for bold colours and statement. Sheesham is also affordable when compared to teak. 

These woods are good and serviceable in their own regard, and offer different things. Teak is better for outdoor use and long-term service, and Sheesham is better in terms of design variety and visual appeal. So, no matter what you choose, we at Greenply will help you find the best wood for your furniture and ensure it looks great and is of service for years to come.