Teak (Tectona grandis) or Lauan/Philippine Mahogany (Shorea spp.)
Tectona grandis / Shorea spp. · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Indonesia, Thailand); widely cultivated in tropical plantations worldwide.
- Hardness
- 1,000 to 1,150 lbf (Medium to Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (if Teak) to Moderately Durable (if Lauan); high natural oil content provides good moisture and decay resistance.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse, open-pored texture and prominent vessel lines visible along the face.
Color & Appearance
Golden-brown to medium reddish-brown heartwood, currently exhibiting heavy surface oxidation, water staining, and worn finish showing pale grey/tan weathered fibers.
Hardness (Janka)
1,000 to 1,150 lbf (Medium to Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (if Teak) to Moderately Durable (if Lauan); high natural oil content provides good moisture and decay resistance.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $18.00 per board foot (for solid Teak lumber); lower if commercial grade plywood/veneer.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-40 years old, showing significant signs of surface wear, finish breakdown, sun exposure, and water staining.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Vulnerable in native ranges due to overexploitation; plantation-grown sources are widely available and FSC-certified.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat decking, interior furniture tops, cabinetry, paneling, and marine plywood face veneers.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Indonesia, Thailand); widely cultivated in tropical plantations worldwide.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and power tools, though high silica content can dull cutting edges rapidly. Glues well after surface cleaning with solvent.
Finish Recommendations
Requires thorough sanding to remove degraded finish and surface discoloration, followed by solvent wiping (e.g., acetone) to remove natural surface oils before applying teak oil, spar varnish, or exterior polyurethane.
Notable Features
High natural oil content giving a waxy feel, distinct leathery smell when freshly cut/sanded, and excellent dimensional stability under changing moisture conditions.
