Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with occasional wavy or interlocked patterns; prominent cathedral figure on flat-sawn surfaces as seen in the sample; coarse, uneven texture.
Color Description
Heartwood is golden to medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is a distinct pale yellow/white. Features oily luster and significant color contrast between dark streaks and light base tones.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot, termites, and weathering due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Boat building (decks/trim), outdoor furniture, high-end cabinetry, flooring, and exterior construction.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $45.00 per board foot depending on thickness and grain quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young/modern stock (likely plantation-grown), indicated by the clean machine marks and high sapwood-to-heartwood ratio.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Endangered (wild populations); however, widely available as FSC-certified plantation-grown material.
Workability
Generally easy to work but high silica content causes rapid dulling of cutting edges. Glues well only after surface oils are wiped with solvent.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut; naturally waxy/oily feel; contains silica which provides grip but dulls tools.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil to maintain the natural look; if lacquering or painting, surfaces must be degreased with acetone first.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the specific tan-brown heartwood, pale sapwood transition, and characteristic oily grain texture is diagnostic for Teak.