Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows a flat-sawn face with prominent, darker oily streaks and open pores.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. This sample shows the characteristic dull luster and oily surface common to Teak.
Hardness Rating
1000 to 1150 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Renowned for its exceptional resistance to rot, fungal decay, and termites due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Marine applications (boat decks and trim), outdoor furniture, high-end cabinetry, exterior joinery, and flooring.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations across Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
15.00 USD to 40.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and origin (Burmese vs. Plantation).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be freshly cut or reclaimed rough stock, roughly 1-5 years post-processing, showing some surface oxidation and machine marks.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Endangered due to habitat loss; FSC certification is available for plantation-grown stock. CITES Appendix II applies to some regional populations.
Workability
Generally easy to work but the high silica content can dull cutting edges rapidly. It glues reasonably well despite natural oils if surfaces are wiped with solvent first.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High natural oil content makes it feel greasy to the touch. Contains silica which acts as a natural abrasive.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil are preferred to maintain the natural look. Lacquer and varnish can struggle to adhere unless the surface oils are stripped with acetone.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the golden-brown color with dark mineral streaks, large open pores, and the visible oily/waxy texture is diagnostic of Tectona grandis.