Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse, uneven texture and a distinctively oily or greasy feel.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically golden or medium brown, darkening with age and light exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. It often exhibits a dull luster.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot, termites, and weathering due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Boat building (decks and trim), outdoor furniture, high-end flooring, cabinetry, exterior construction, and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown in plantations across Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 - $50.00 per board foot depending on source (FEQ - First European Quality).
Wood Age Estimate
Likely modern plantation-grown stock (10-30 years) based on consistent color and lack of deep oxidation or historic patina.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed but threatened in the wild; FSC-certified plantation teak is the most sustainable and widely available option.
Workability
Generally easy to work but high silica content significantly dulls cutting edges quickly. Glues well if surfaces are wiped with solvent beforehand to remove surface oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. Very high natural oil content and silica. Highly stable with low shrinkage rates.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil to maintain natural appearance; specialized sealers are recommended for outdoor use. Avoid thick film finishes that can peel due to surface oils.
Identification Confidence
High; the golden-brown color, characteristic open pores, and oily surface texture are hallmark traits of Tectona grandis.