Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia, primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, and Thailand; widely plantation-grown in the tropics
- Hardness
- 1000 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable, excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termite attacks
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Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy or interlocked grain with a coarse, uneven texture
Color & Appearance
Rich golden brown to dark yellowish-brown, sometimes with dark streaks; darkens significantly with age and exposure to light
Hardness (Janka)
1000 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termite attacks
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15 to 30 USD per board foot depending on grade and origin
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, approximately 1 to 5 years old
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN status is Lower Risk/Least Concern for plantations, but wild old-growth teak faces harvesting pressures
Common Uses
Boat building, yacht decking, outdoor furniture, flooring, exterior construction
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia, primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, and Thailand; widely plantation-grown in the tropics
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high silica content dulls cutting edges quickly; natural oils can sometimes interfere with gluing
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil, marine finishes, or penetrating oils work best; varnishes and polyurethanes require thorough degreasing with a solvent like acetone prior to application
Notable Features
Contains natural oils and silica that give it superior weather resistance and a greasy or waxy feel to the touch
