Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia (primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, Thailand); widely planted throughout tropical regions globally
- Hardness
- 1070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable (Excellent resistance to rot, decay, termites, and weather)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy or interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture
Color & Appearance
Golden-yellow to medium brown heartwood that darkens with age and exposure to light; distinct lighter yellowish-white sapwood
Hardness (Janka)
1070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (Excellent resistance to rot, decay, termites, and weather)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15 to $35+ per board foot depending on grade, origin, and whether it is plantation or old-growth
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10 to 30 years based on plantation growth rings and surface wear, relatively modern milled board
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List for plantation-grown timber, but old-growth wild Teak faces regional restrictions and high demand
Common Uses
Boat building, exterior furniture, decking, marine applications, carving, and fine interior cabinetry
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia (primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, Thailand); widely planted throughout tropical regions globally
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though its blunt effect on cutters is high due to silica content; contains natural oils that can occasionally interfere with gluing
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating oils are traditionally used to maintain its color; can be left unfinished to weather to a silvery-gray patina, though degreasing with solvent is needed before gluing or finishing due to natural oils
Notable Features
Contains natural oils and rubber that make it extremely weather-resistant and dimensionally stable; has a distinct leather-like scent when freshly cut
