Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia, primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, and Thailand; widely cultivated in plantations globally
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy or interlocked grain with a coarse, uneven texture
Color & Appearance
Golden to medium brown, darkening with age and exposure to light; contains natural oils that give it a leather-like scent when freshly cut
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15.00 to 30.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent milled stock, approximately 2 to 5 years old
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, but wild populations are threatened; widely available through sustainable plantations (FSC certified)
Common Uses
Boat building, yacht decking, exterior furniture, outdoor construction, flooring, carvings
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia, primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, and Thailand; widely cultivated in plantations globally
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though high silica content can dull cutting edges quickly; glues and finishes well despite natural oils
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating finishes are traditional, but require special surface prep and degreasing if varnishing or using polyurethane due to natural oils
Notable Features
Contains natural oils and rubber that make it extremely resistant to moisture, rot, and insect attacks; has a greasy or oily feel
