Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy or irregular with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows cathedral patterning and a slightly interlocked grain commonly found in larger slabs.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is pale yellowish-brown. The sample exhibits a dull luster and characteristic oily surface typical of the species.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to rot, termites, and fungal decay due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (especially decks), flooring, cabinetry, veneer, and high-end exterior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Ranges from $25.00 to $45.00 per board foot depending on grain quality and region of origin.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible checking (surface cracks) and oxidation suggests this sample has been harvested and air-dried for at least 5-10 years, though the tree itself was likely 40-60 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed; however, Myanmar teak is heavily restricted in many countries. Plantation-grown Teak is widely available and FSC certified.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though high silica content can dull blades rapidly. Glues well only after surface oils are wiped with a solvent like acetone.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High oil and silica content provide exceptional weather resistance but can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Best treated with Teak oil or left unfinished for outdoor use. For indoor use, clear lacquer or polyurethane can be used if surface oils are properly managed first.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The characteristic warm golden-brown color, oily appearance, and specific grain movement are hallmark traits of Tectona grandis.