Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Typically straight grain, occasionally wavy or interlocked. The sample shows a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern toward the center and tighter, straight vertical grain toward the edges. Texture is coarse and uneven.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown that darkens with age. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white, clearly demarcated from heartwood as seen in the lighter streaks of this board. It possesses a dull to moderate luster.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to rot, termites, and fungal decay. It is widely considered one of the most durable woods in the world for outdoor exposure.
Common Uses
Boat building (decks and trim), outdoor furniture, high-end cabinetry, flooring, veneer, and turnings.
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 for high-quality Burmese teak; $15.00 - $25.00 for plantation-grown stock.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to recently seasoned (less than 1-2 years). The colors are vibrant and lack the silver-gray patina that develops with UV exposure.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (wild populations). Not currently CITES listed, but trade from certain regions like Myanmar is subject to international sanctions. FSC-certified plantation teak is commonly available.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though high silica content has a significant dulling effect on cutting edges. Glues and finishes can be difficult due to high natural oil content; surface wiping with solvent is often required before bonding.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High natural oil and silica content. It has an oily or greasy feel when touched.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil is preferred to maintain the natural look. For high-moisture environments, it can be left unfinished to weather to gray. If using film-forming finishes like polyurethane, the wood must be degreased with acetone first.
Identification Confidence
High. The golden-brown hue, characteristic oily surface texture, specific cathedral grain structure, and the contrast between the creamy sapwood and oily heartwood are classic indicators of Tectona grandis.