Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy with an occasional interlocked grain and a coarse, uneven texture. Flat-sawn cathedral patterns are visible in several planks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden brown, darkening to a medium brown with age. Sapwood is yellowish-white. It has a dull to medium luster and an oily feel.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, termites, and weathering due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (decks and trim), flooring, cabinetry, veneer, and exterior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Mainly Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); also grown in plantations throughout Tropical Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 to $45.00 per board foot for high-quality Burmese Teak; Plantation Teak may be $10.00 to $20.00.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young wood (estimated 1–3 years old) based on the freshness of the golden hue and lack of graying/patina usually caused by UV exposure.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (due to wild harvesting). Widely available as FSC-certified plantation-grown wood. Export of wild Teak from Myanmar is heavily restricted.
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, but the high silica content has a severe dulling effect on cutting edges. Glues and finishes can be difficult due to natural oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like odor when freshly cut. Heavy natural oils make it water-resistant and give it a characteristic greasy feel.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil is the standard to maintain color. To prevent silver-gray weathering, UV-inhibiting sealers are recommended. Varnish requires degreasing with solvent (like acetone) prior to application.
Identification Confidence
High. The golden-brown hue, large open pores, oily surface appearance, and common application as slat-based outdoor furniture are hallmarks of Teak.