
Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in tropical plantation regions globally
- Hardness
- 1070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture
Color & Appearance
Medium golden-brown to deep rich brown color, often with darker brown streaks. It darkens significantly with age and exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15 to 30 dollars per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a modern or recently milled lumber board, likely less than 10 years old
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed or IUCN threatened for plantation-grown timber, but heavily regulated in native wild forests
Common Uses
Boat building, marine decking, outdoor furniture, carving, and indoor flooring
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in tropical plantation regions globally
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though its natural silica content can quickly blunt cutting edges
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or specialized marine finishes work best; surface must be wiped down with a solvent to remove natural oils prior to gluing or finishing
Notable Features
Contains natural oils and rubber that give it a greasy or oily feel, excellent resistance to moisture and insects