Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, though occasionally wavy or interlocked. The texture is coarse and uneven with a naturally oily or greasy feel; visually shows a medium-to-large pore structure typical of Tectona species.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically golden or medium brown, darkening with age. This sample shows a classic silver-gray weathered patina caused by UV exposure, with original warm brown tones visible in protected or shadowed areas.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, termites, and fungal decay due to high natural oil and rubber content. Widely considered the gold standard for outdoor weather resistance.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (especially decks), high-end cabinetry, exterior joinery, and flooring.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); extensively grown on plantations throughout tropical regions in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
High; typically ranges from $30.00 to $50.00 per board foot for high-quality FEQ (First European Quality) timber.
Wood Age Estimate
The thick silver patina and presence of minor lichen/moss growth in crevices suggest an exposure age of 5 to 10 years in an outdoor environment.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (wild populations); however, it is widely available through FSC-certified plantations. CITES listed species (Tectona grandis) are not currently restricted, though trade from Myanmar is subject to sanctions.
Workability
Generally easy to work but contains high silica content which significantly dulls cutting edges. Glues well only after surface oils are wiped with a solvent like acetone.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High natural oil content makes it uniquely water-repellent and stable under varying moisture conditions.
Finish Recommendations
Best left unfinished to silver naturally (as seen here) or maintained with specialized Teak Oil to preserve the brown color. Not recommended for film-forming finishes like polyurethane which may peel due to natural oils.
Identification Confidence
High; identified by the specific silver-gray weathering pattern, the slatted construction typical of outdoor furniture, and the visible coarse grain texture and oily surface appearance inherent to Tectona grandis.