Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, occasionally wavy or interlocked with a coarse, uneven texture and a naturally oily feel. Large open pores are visible on the face grain.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. It possesses a dull luster due to high natural oil content.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, termites, and weathering due to its high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Ship and boatbuilding (especially decks), outdoor furniture, high-end exterior joinery, flooring, veneer, and turnings.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations throughout tropical regions of Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
High; typically ranges from $30.00 to $50.00 per board foot depending on thickness, width, and origin (FEQ - First European Quality).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears modern with fresh milling, likely harvested within the last 5-10 years and processed recently given the lack of significant oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed; IUCN status: Endangered (in the wild). However, it is widely available from FSC-certified sustainable plantations.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, but the high silica content has a significant dulling effect on cutting edges. Glues can be difficult due to natural oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. Heavy natural oils make it highly water-resistant. High silica content can cause blunting of saws.
Finish Recommendations
Best left unfinished for outdoor use to weather to a silver-gray. Indoors, use teak oil, tung oil, or thin coats of lacquer; avoid thick film finishes which may peel due to surface oils.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The golden-brown hue, coarse open grain, and slightly waxy/oily appearance are highly characteristic of Tectona grandis.