Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture and a prominent cathedral pattern visible in the flat-sawn face; occasional small knots and mineral streaks are present.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. This sample shows a weathered, silvery-gray patina on the surface with underlying tan hues and low natural luster due to surface oxidation.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to termite attack, fungal decay, and rot due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
Boat building (decks and trim), outdoor furniture, high-end exterior joinery, flooring, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); extensively grown in plantations throughout tropical regions of Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $45.00 per board foot depending on source (FEQ Burmese vs. Plantation).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from a relatively young plantation-grown tree (indicated by grain spacing) with several months of outdoor UV exposure causing the silvery surface oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Endangered (native populations); however, it is widely available as FSC-certified plantation-grown timber.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has high silica content which can significantly dull cutting edges. Glues well despite natural oils if surfaces are freshly prepped.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut; oily feel to the touch; high weight-to-strength ratio and excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil to maintain color; marine-grade varnish for high-moisture areas; or left unfinished to age to a natural silver-gray.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of large vessel pores, distinctive cathedral grain, dull waxy texture, and the specific silvery-gray weathering pattern is characteristic of Tectona grandis.