Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy or interlocked grain with a medium-coarse texture; exhibits a cathedral-like figure in flat-sawn sections as seen in the central board
Color Description
Heartwood is typically golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is a pale yellowish white. The sample shows significant color variation with darker streaks and a distinct oily luster
Hardness Rating
1070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, fungi, and termites due to high natural oil content
Common Uses
Shipbuilding, outdoor furniture, high-end flooring, cabinetry, veneer, and exterior joinery
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 to $50.00 per board foot depending on grade and origin
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly processed or recently finished; the light golden hues and lack of silver-gray weathering suggest a relatively recent application of finish
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (wild populations); widely available from FSC-certified sustainable plantations
Workability
Generally easy to work but contains high silica content which rapidly dulls tool edges; glues and finishes well despite natural oils if surfaces are pre-cleaned
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut; exceptionally high silica and natural oil content providing waterproof properties
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating oils are preferred to maintain natural beauty; film-finishes like polyurethane may require a solvent wipe-down to ensure adhesion
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the oily sheen, broad cathedral grain, specific straw-to-chocolate color palette, and coarse texture is characteristic of Tectona grandis