Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy with a coarse, uneven texture and a naturally oily feel. Flat-sawn with subtle cathedral peaks visible and small pores typical of ring-porous hardwoods.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown, darkening with age and light exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellowish brown. The sample shows typical color variation with some darker streaks and a duller luster due to high oil content.
Hardness Rating
1070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to rot, fungi, and termites due to high natural oil and silica content; excellent weathering properties.
Common Uses
Ship and boatbuilding (especially decks), outdoor furniture, high-end cabinetry, flooring, and exterior construction.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); also widely grown on plantations in tropical regions of Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 to $45.00 per board foot for high-quality FEQ (First European Quality) lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
The board appears to be several decades old (30-50 years) based on the deep oxidation of the heartwood and the visible surface wear/residue.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (wild populations); widespread availability as plantation-grown wood (FSC certified) which is more sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work but high silica content dulls cutting edges rapidly. Glues well only after surface oils are wiped with a solvent like acetone. Finishes and sands well.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut; high natural oil content; high silica content; water-resistant and slip-resistant properties.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil to maintain the natural color; alternatively, it can be left unfinished to weather to a silver-grey. Polyurethane requires surface degreasing before application.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The visible grain structure, golden-brown hue, and the way the surface holds light are consistent with Tectona grandis, though some Dipterocarps (like Keruing) can look similar without a scent/oil test.