Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked with a coarse, uneven texture. Some boards show a wavy or cathedral figure typical of flat-sawn outdoor furniture slats.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown, which has weathered to a darker, silvery-grey/brown patina. Sapwood is typically pale yellowish white but not visible here. Exhibits a dull luster due to weathering and natural oils.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, termites, and fungal decay. Known for exceptional weathering properties in outdoor environments.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (decks), flooring, veneer, and exterior joinery.
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
Approximately $30.00 to $50.00 per board foot for high-quality Burmese teak; plantation teak is lower at $15.00 to $25.00.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from functional outdoor furniture, likely 3 to 7 years old based on the surface oxidation and typical weathering patterns of the grain.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to population reduction in native stands. FSC-certified plantation teak is widely available and preferred.
Workability
Generally easy to work but contains high silica content which significantly dulls cutting edges. Glues well despite natural oils if surfaces are freshly sanded or wiped with solvent.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High natural oil content makes it naturally water-resistant. Known for being greasy to the touch.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or sealer is recommended specifically for outdoor use to maintain color. Can be left unfinished to weather to a silver-grey. Avoid film-forming finishes like thick polyurethane which may peel.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic coarse grain texture, oily appearance, and weathering pattern on slatted furniture are classic indicators of Tectona grandis.