Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly interlocked with a coarse, uneven texture. The face grain shows a visible, somewhat open-pored cathedral pattern typical of flat-sawn teak, with slight oily streaking visible.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. This sample shows the characteristic dull golden-brown hue and matte luster common in unfinished teak, with some reddish lumber crayon marking on the surface.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Renowned for its superb decay resistance and stability. Highly resistant to rot, termites, and fungal decay due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
Boat building (decks and trim), outdoor furniture, high-end flooring, cabinetry, interior joinery, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations across tropical regions in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $45.00 per board foot depending on source (FEQ - First European Quality is highest).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely kiln-dried and harvested within the last 5-10 years based on the crisp edges and fresh oxidation level.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed, but natural-growth teak is IUCN Red List ‘Endangered’ in some regions. FSC-certified plantation teak is widely available and preferred for sustainability.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though its high silica content (up to 1.4%) has a severe dulling effect on cutting edges. Glues well only after surface oils are wiped with a solvent like acetone.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. Contains high levels of natural oils and silica. Highly stable with very low shrinkage rates.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil are best to enhance natural beauty. For sea-going vessels, high-build varnish is common. If left unfinished outdoors, it will weather to a silver-grey patina.
Identification Confidence
High. The golden-brown color, characteristic open-pore structure, oily feel, and visible end-grain ray patterns are diagnostic of Tectona grandis.