Teak and the Royal Navy's Indian dockyards

When did the Royal Navy begin using teak for ships?

Its use expanded when the Royal Navy gained access to East India Company dockyards in India, where teak shipbuilding was already established.

The Navy's enthusiasm for teak followed its takeover of East India Company dockyard capacity in India. Those yards had experience building in teak, including fourth rates converted from East Indiamen and some third rates that entered Royal Navy service. Timber choice depended on imperial infrastructure and available industrial expertise as well as the qualities of a particular wood.