Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with occasional wavy or interlocked patterns; coarse and uneven texture with a distinct oily feel.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown that darkens with age; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It possesses a dull luster and can appear mottled or streaked.
Hardness Rating
1070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot, fungal decay, and termites due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (especially decks), flooring, veneer, cabinetry, and exterior construction.
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
$30.00 - $50.00 per board foot depending on source and quality.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears relatively fresh or recently sanded, showing minimal oxidation but visible surface wear and residue which suggests it has been part of an existing structure or piece of furniture for 5-10 years.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to native habitat loss; however, it is widely available from FSC-certified plantations.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though high silica content can dull cutting edges rapidly; glues well despite natural oils if surfaces are cleaned with a solvent first.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut; heavy natural oils make it water-resistant; very stable with minimal shrinkage.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil to maintain natural appearance; clear sealers for UV protection. Avoid film-forming finishes like thick lacquer which may peel due to surface oils.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the golden-brown hue, coarse open pores, visible silica streaks, and characteristically oily/waxy grain appearance is diagnostic of Tectona grandis.