Teak
Tectona grandis · Hardwood / Exotic
- Type
- Hardwood / Exotic
- Origin
- Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia); widely cultivated in plantations across tropical regions worldwide
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, moisture, and insect attack due to high natural oil content
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Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight to slightly wavy grain with coarse, uneven texture and visible long pores typical of flat-sawn or rift-sawn outdoor decking planks
Color & Appearance
Golden-brown to medium brown with silver-gray surface oxidation and weathering from outdoor exposure, showing light checks and subtle fiber raise
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, moisture, and insect attack due to high natural oil content
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $25 - $40 per board foot depending on plantation vs. old-growth origin and board dimensions
- Wood Age Estimate
- 3 to 8 years of exterior weathered exposure based on light gray patina, mild surface checking, and loss of original rich golden oils
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Endangered in wild native habitats (e.g., Myanmar); widely available from FSC-certified sustainable plantations in Indonesia and Latin America
Common Uses
Outdoor decking, marine joinery, boat building, patio furniture, high-end exterior cladding, and architectural woodwork
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia); widely cultivated in plantations across tropical regions worldwide
Workability
Good overall workability, but high silica content causes rapid dulling of cutting tools; glues moderately well if surface oils are wiped with solvent prior to bonding
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating marine-grade exterior sealer to restore natural color, or left untreated to naturally weather into a silvery-gray patina
Notable Features
Distinctive oily feel, leather-like aroma when freshly cut, high silica content, and exceptional dimensional stability in wet environments
