Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain; typically flat-sawn in these rough-cut boards with a coarse, uneven texture and a greasy feel.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. Large color variation is visible here due to weathering and rough milling, showing a dull greyish-tan surface oxidation.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to termites, fungal decay, and rot; excellent weathering characteristics due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (decks and trim), exterior construction, flooring, and high-end cabinetry.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $40.00 per board foot depending on grade and origin (Burmese vs. Plantation).
Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled rough lumber (under 1 year since cutting), but showing surface oxidation from being stored in an open-air environment.
Sustainability Status
Natural-grown Teak from Myanmar is restricted/CITES listed (Appendix II in some regions); Plantation-grown teak is widely available and FSC certified.
Workability
Generally easy to work but high silica content causes moderate to severe dulling on cutting edges. Glues well despite natural oils if surfaces are pre-cleaned with solvent.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High natural oil and silica content. Very oily to the touch.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil to maintain natural appearance. If gluing or lacquering, surfaces must be wiped with acetone to remove surface oils.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The coarse end-grain, golden-brown hue beneath surface oxidation, and typical application in heavy rough-sawn planks strongly suggest Teak (Tectona grandis).