Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Native to South and Southeast Asia (Myanmar, India, Indonesia, Thailand); widely grown on plantations in tropical regions globally.
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional natural resistance to decay, rot, moisture, fungal attack, and wood-boring insects due to high natural resin content.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a coarse, open-pored texture and fine uniform linear vessel rays visible along the slats.
Color & Appearance
Currently weathered to a soft, silver-gray patina due to outdoor UV exposure. Unfinished fresh heartwood underneath typically ranges from golden-brown to dark brown.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional natural resistance to decay, rot, moisture, fungal attack, and wood-boring insects due to high natural resin content.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $25.00 - $40.00 per board foot for premium genuine/plantation teak lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 3 to 10 years of outdoor exposure based on the uniform silver-gray oxidation surface patina without severe cracking or degradation.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Endangered in native natural forests due to deforestation; widely available from certified sustainable FSC plantations.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, slatted patio tables and benches, boat decks, marine joinery, fine furniture, and exterior architectural accents.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (Myanmar, India, Indonesia, Thailand); widely grown on plantations in tropical regions globally.
Workability
Works well with tools but high silica content tends to dull cutting edges quickly. Glues moderately well after wiping surface natural oils with solvent.
Finish Recommendations
Can be left unfinished to maintain the silvery-gray weathered look, or treated with specialized teak oil/penetrating sealer after light sanding to restore golden-brown tone.
Notable Features
High natural oil content giving a slightly waxy or greasy feel, distinct leather-like scent when freshly sanded, and exceptional dimensional stability outdoors.
