Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain, sometimes interlocked. Displays a classic flat-sawn cathedral pattern with a medium to coarse texture and large open pores.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a golden or medium brown, darkening with age and exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. It exhibits a naturally dull surface luster due to high oil content.
Hardness Rating
1070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Renowned for its exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack (including termites) even in direct contact with soil or water.
Common Uses
Boat building (decks and trim), high-end outdoor furniture, interior flooring, cabinetry, veneer, and carving.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations across tropical regions in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 - $50.00 per board foot, depending on grain quality and origin.
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 20-40 years since harvest based on the deep golden-brown oxidation and mild surface wear consistent with mature indoor furniture.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES appendices but listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List (wild populations). Sustainable FSC-certified plantation teak is widely available.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, but high silica content has a significant dulling effect on cutting edges; glues well despite natural oils if surfaces are pre-cleaned.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. Features a high natural oil and silica content, making it oily to the touch and highly water-resistant.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil is standard to replenish natural oils; can be left unfinished to weather to a silver-gray. If lacquering, a sealer is required to prevent oily bleed-through.
Identification Confidence
High. The golden-brown hue, prominent open-pore structure, cathedral grain figure, and slightly greasy/oily visual texture are diagnostic of Tectona grandis.