Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, occasionally wavy or interlocked with a coarse, uneven texture and a naturally dull surface. Face grain shows typical longitudinal vessel lines common in ring-porous tropical species.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. This sample shows significant silver-grey weathering (patina) due to UV exposure and oxidation, with hints of the original golden-brown visible in protected areas.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Internationally renowned for its superb resistance to rot, fungal decay, and termites due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (especially decks), flooring, veneer, exterior construction, and high-end joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); extensively grown on plantations throughout tropical regions in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
High; typically ranges from $20.00 to $40.00 per board foot depending on source (Burmese vs. Plantation) and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
The board shows signs of significant outdoor exposure. Based on the depth of the silver-grey oxidation and surface checking, this sample has likely been exposed to the elements for 5 to 10 years.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (wild populations). CITES: Not listed, but Burmese teak is subject to heavy trade sanctions. FSC certified plantation teak is widely available.
Workability
Generally easy to work, but the high silica content has a severe dulling effect on cutting edges. Glues well despite natural oils if surfaces are freshly sanded or wiped with a solvent.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. Features a high amount of natural oils and silica which provides exceptional dimensional stability and weather resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil to maintain color; alternatively, it can be left unfinished to weather to a natural grey. Lacquers may have adhesion issues due to surface oils.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the weathering pattern (silver patina), coarse texture, visible vessel lines, and the context of the board's dimensions and application are highly characteristic of Tectona grandis.