Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy; coarse texture with a distinct oily feel and visible longitudinal parenchyma. This face shows flat-sawn cathedral patterns partially obscured by weathering.
Color Description
Golden to medium brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It often lightens or grays with age/UV exposure if left untreated.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot, termites, and fungal decay due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Marine applications, outdoor furniture, boat decking, high-end cabinetry, and exterior construction.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 - $50.00 per board foot for high-quality genuine Burmese Teak; plantation Teak is lower.
Wood Age Estimate
30-50 years based on deep surface checking, oxidation silvering, and mechanical wear patterns visible on the surface.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (wild populations); CITES Appendix II (some populations); FSC certification is commonly available for plantation-grown stock.
Workability
Generally easy to work but high silica content causes rapid dulling of tool edges. Glues better when surfaces are wiped with solvent to remove natural oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High oil content provides natural water repellency. Can cause skin and respiratory irritation for sensitive individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil to maintain color; marine-grade varnish for high-exposure environments; or left unfinished to age to a silver-grey patina.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The coarse texture, color profile, and specific surface checking/aging patterns are highly characteristic of aged Teak, though the photo lack of end-grain makes it difficult to rule out similar species like Iroko.